RNA enzyme structure offers a glimpse into the origins of life

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The crystal structure of the L1 ligase ribozyme. Image from M. Robertson and W. Scott (Science March 16 2007).
The crystal structure of the L1 ligase ribozyme. Image from M. Robertson and W. Scott (Science, March 16, 2007).

Researchers at the University of California, Santa Cruz, have determined the three-dimensional structure of an RNA enzyme, or "ribozyme," that carries out a fundamental reaction required to make new RNA molecules. Their results provide insight into what may have been the first self-replicating molecule to arise billions of years ago on the evolutionary path toward the emergence of life.


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