Squeezing or Stretching Molecules as a Possible Way to Facilitate Electron Transfer

Abstract

Mechanical energy from moving mica sheets is a possible renewable energy source for the origin of life.[1] Energy is needed for prebiotic molecular syntheses, among other things. The Reverse Tricarboxylic Acid Cycle is a reductive reaction cycle proposed for the prebiotic synthesis of amino acids, sugars, and other molecules before the existence living organisms with enzymes.[2]Can moving muscovite mica sheets lower the energy barriers for the chemical reduction of molecules such as succinate and citrate by deforming these molecules? A unit cell of mica - K Al2 (Al Si3 O10) (OH)2 - has 2 delocalized hydrogens available for reducing molecules of the Reverse Tricarboxylic Acid Cycle, such as oxalosuccinate or oxaloacetate. A precedent for this idea comes from research showing that mechanical energy alters the reaction kinetics of disulfide reduction.[3].1. Hansma, H.G., Journal of Theoretical Biology, 2010. 266:175-188.2. Smith, E., H.J. Morowitz, and S.D. Copley, in Protocells: bridging nonliving and living matter, S. Rasmussen, et al., Editors. 2009, The MIT Press: Cambridge, MA. p. 433-460.3. Wiita, A.P., et al., 2007, Nature 450:124-127.View Large Image | View Hi-Res Image | Download PowerPoint Slide