Building block of organic molecules found in extraterrestrial object

Scientists have found a key building block of organic molecules in a meteorite, representing a major step in our understanding of the origins of life.

Theories had long suggested that organic compounds could form in extraterrestrial environments. But now researchers have directly observed a key organic molecule that could be then used to build other organic molecules, including those that are used to form life.

How biology was able to begin is one of the central mysteries of our understanding of the formation of life on Earth. We still do not know how non-biological chemical process could turn into biological ones, but molecules on meteorites are one of the central suspects in that development.

In the new research, scientists led by Yasuhiro Oba from Hokkaido University found a prebiotic molecule known as hexamethylenetetramine or HMT in three different meteorites.