Can prolinamide react with other amino acids to form heterocyclic dipeptides under simulated early Earth conditions?
Label:chem
Topic
Previous studies have shown that proline can form cyclic dipeptides under certain conditions. This study explores whether prolinamide can react with other amino acids to form heterocyclic dipeptides, potentially expanding the diversity of prebiotic peptides.
From: "Local pH variability scenario: Prebiotic synthesis of cyclic dipeptides via prolinamide on the Hadean Earth", Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology, Volume 651, 1 October 2024, 112402
Answer
The study demonstrates that prolinamide can react with all 20 naturally occurring amino acids to form heterocyclic dipeptides under simulated early Earth conditions. Notably, the reaction with serine (Ser) yields the highest amount of cyclic dipeptides, suggesting that the hydroxyl group of Ser accelerates the reaction. This finding indicates that prolinamide could have contributed to the formation of diverse cyclic dipeptides in early Earth environments, enhancing the complexity and diversity of prebiotic peptides.
Return to Home
Chemical List
Knowledge you may be interested in