Scientists discover cloud of life-giving molecules in deep space

Are we closer to solving a mystery?

Scientists have discovered a mysterious molecule at the center of all life on Earth floating in interstellar space. The molecule is the famous "chiral" molecule that binds easily with other elements and forms the basis of all life as we know it.

LOS ANGELES, CA (California Network) - Molecules can come in two versions of themselves, a right-handed version and a left-handed version. Molecules capable of both forms are known as "chiral" molecules. And a particular type of basic chiral molecule is found in all life as we know it. The mystery is, life only uses the "left handed" version of this chiral molecule. Why does life prefer one molecule over another?

Scientists have no idea why life prefers certain versions of the same molecule to others. Our amino acids are left-handed, and our sugars are made of right-handed molecules, and somehow it all works together. At the same time, right-handed handed amino acids appear to be good for virtually nothing.

The good news is the universe has a bias in favor of left-handed amino acids, which are useful. But why are there more of these and less of the other? There are no answers right now.

We may be a step closer to finding out though. Scientists studying radio telescope data have discovered a cloud rich in these amino acids in space. Follow up study may reveal if these is an imbalance in these amino acids in favor of right or left handedness.

The cloud is in the constellation Sagittarius B2(N), about 400 light years away. That particular cloud happens to be unusually rich in a variety of molecules which form the building blocks of life. Did the Sun and Earth form from a similarly rich cloud?

The discovery also suggests that the fundamental building blocks of life are present in deep, interstellar space. They do not need to form on the surface of a moon or planet, but may form naturally on individual, microscopic grains of dust or ice. This has wonderful implications for the search for life, because if these molecules are common, then it stands to reason life itself may be more common across the universe.

Scientists plan further study to see if the cloud is made of left-handed molecules or right-handed ones, or a balance of both. Their research may help bring us closer to the answers that will unlock old questions about our universe and the origins of life.

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