Life on Earth May Have Originated from Frozen Toxin

Researchers have revealed that a toxic chemical, hydrogen cyanide, might have played a crucial role in the emergence of life on Earth. According to a study published in ACS Central Science, this chemical can freeze into solid crystals, which are highly reactive at low temperatures. This unique reactivity could enable chemical reactions that typically do not occur in such cold conditions, potentially resulting in the formation of essential building blocks for life.

Martin Rahm, the lead researcher, explained that while the exact origins of life remain unclear, understanding how its ingredients form is becoming more accessible. He highlighted hydrogen cyanide as a plausible contributor to this chemical complexity, noting its surprisingly rapid reactivity in cold environments.

In space, hydrogen cyanide has been found on comets and in the atmospheres of celestial bodies like Saturn’s moon, Titan. When it comes into contact with water, it can create polymers, amino acids, and nucleobases, which are vital components of proteins and DNA. To explore how hydrogen cyanide acts when frozen, the research team employed computer simulations to investigate its crystalline structure.

The simulations depicted a cylindrical crystal, about 450 nanometers long, resembling gemstones. This form aligns with previous observations of crystal formations known as "cobwebs," which emerge from a central point.

Crucially, the study indicates that these frozen crystals can facilitate rare chemical reactions, potentially transforming hydrogen cyanide into hydrogen isocyanide, a more reactive variant. This transformation can occur rapidly or over several days, implying that more complex prebiotic compounds may also develop.

Looking ahead, the researchers hope to validate their findings through laboratory tests, such as grinding hydrogen cyanide crystals in water to see if they promote the formation of complex molecules in extreme cold.