Symmetry breaking by spontaneous crystallization--is it the most plausible source of terrestrial handedness we have long been looking for?--A reappraisal.

Abstract

In the light of recent and controversial findings on spontaneous resolution of racemates and their implications in the origin of homochirality on earth, we present here a detailed review of this important topic. Although spontaneous resolution cannot at this moment be reliably predicted, there has also been considerable progress in crystal structure prediction and, not only thermodynamic factors, but also kinetic ones, play important roles in the efficiency of packing and crystallization. In addition, self-association and supramolecular control phenomena may be identified in cases where spontaneous resolution of enantiomers is actually occurring. While this contribution summarizes our current understanding of this intriguing phenomena, it is hoped that future work on crystalline conglomerates (or homochiral crystals) of prebiotic importance will be of further help to understand the general problem of terrestrial chirogenesis.