Membrane lipids and the origin of lifeThe current state of knowledge regarding the development of biological systems is briefly reviewed. At a crucial stage concerning the evolution of such systems, the mechanisms leading to more complex structures must have evolved within the confines of a protected microenvironment, similar to those provided by the contemporary cell membranes. The major components found normally in biomembranes are phospholipids. The structure of the biomembrane is examined, and attention is given to questions concerning the availability of the structural components which are necessary in the formation of primitive lipid membranes. Two approaches regarding the study of protomembranes are discussed. The probability of obtaining ether lipids under prebiotic conditions is considered, taking into account the formation of cyclic and acyclic isoprenoids by the irradiation of isoprene with UV.
Document ID
19820037408
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Oro, J. (Houston Univ. TX, United States)
Holzer, G. (Houston Univ. TX, United States)
Rao, M. (Houston, University Houston, TX, United States)
Tornabene, T. G. (Colorado State University Fort Collins, CO, United States)