What crucial role does RNA play in the RNA world hypothesis?
Only genetic information storage
Only catalysis
Both genetic information storage and catalysis
Structural support
Related Questions
A critical piece of evidence supporting the RNA world hypothesis is the existence of ribozymes. Which characteristic of ribozymes is MOST significant in this context?
Their sensitivity to RNase degradation
Their single-stranded structure
Their ability to catalyze both self-replication and peptide bond formation
Their presence in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes
In the context of the RNA world hypothesis, the discovery of catalytic RNA molecules (ribozymes) was crucial. Which of the following functions performed by ribozymes is MOST relevant to supporting the hypothesis?
Degrading proteins, demonstrating early enzymatic activity
Catalyzing RNA polymerization, suggesting a mechanism for self-replication
Splicing RNA, indicating a role in gene regulation
Synthesizing amino acids, demonstrating prebiotic metabolic pathways
What crucial role does RNA play in the RNA world hypothesis?
Only genetic information storage
Only catalysis
Both genetic information storage and catalysis
Structural support
In the context of the RNA world hypothesis, what is the significance of ribozymes?
They store genetic information.
They are building blocks of proteins.
They demonstrate that RNA can catalyze reactions.
They transport amino acids.
What are RNA molecules with catalytic activity called?
Enzymes
Ribozymes
Ribosomes
Deoxyribozymes
Which prebiotic condition would have MOST significantly hindered the formation of stable RNA polymers in the early Earth environment?
An abundance of organic molecules like amino acids and nucleotides
The presence of clay minerals that can catalyze RNA polymerization
High concentrations of metal ions that catalyze RNA hydrolysis
Alternating cycles of wetting and drying