The evolutionary origin of the genetic code (P11)

• Subject Area: Biochemistry
• Term: from 2018 to 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 364653263

The evolutionary origin of the genetic code is poorly understood. By using kinetic sequencing to investigate whether certain RNA sequences are aminoacylated faster than others, we will determine the specificity of the reaction, test the influence of different RNA scaffolds and alternative activation chemistries as well as certain additives on rate and specificity of the aminoacylation reaction. These results will be linked to experiments that probe how this translation could emerge by a functional advantage in prebiotic settings. We aim to probe whether the genetic code was a random accident or a consequence of molecular reactivities and affinities.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 235: Emergence of Life: exploring mechanisms with cross-disciplinary experiments
• Applicant Institution: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Dieter Braun; Professor Dr. Andres Jäschke