Pyrite as a catalyst for the emergence of multiphase primitive cells.

ABSTRACT: Coacervate-based protocells are minimal systems that mimic certain properties of natural cells and are used to investigate the emergence of life from nonliving chemical systems. However, constructing protocells with hierarchical structures and life-like functions remains a challenge. In this work, we develop a novel coacervate-based protocell (droplet) composed of single-stranded oligonucleotides (ss-oligo), quaternized dextran (Q-dextran), and 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB). In the presence of natural pyrite, the droplet encapsulates the pyrite, enhancing its peroxidase-like catalytic activity. This activity catalyzes oxidation of TMB to its oxidized form (TMBox), inducing a transition from single-phase to multiphase droplets. The resulting multiphase droplet consists of an internal

SUBMITTER: Ding N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12823477 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature