Biology
Scientific paper
Jan 2004
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2004adspr..33.1255s&link_type=abstract
Advances in Space Research, Volume 33, Issue 8, p. 1255-1261.
Biology
4
Astrobiology, Molecular Fossils, Biomarkers As Geochemical Indicators Of Life
Scientific paper
Biomarkers (also termed chemical fossils, molecular markers, indicators or organic tracers) are specific organic compounds which are useful in assessing the genetic sources of lipidic or bituminous organic matter. Biomarkers in geological samples on Earth are products derived from biochemical (natural product) precursors by mainly reductive but also oxidative alteration processes (e.g., cholestanes from cholesterol). They have chemical structures which can be related back to their precursor compounds in contemporary or extinct biota. Generally, lipids, pigments and biomembranes are preserved best over longer geological times. Thus the detailed characterization of biomarker structures and mixture compositions permits the assessment of the major contributing source species of extinct and/or extant life. Biomarkers cannot be synthesized by abiological processes and each precursor generally is altered by diagenetic and catagenetic processes to a sequential series of derivative products. The utility of biomarkers as indicators of biogenic, paleoenvironmental and geochemical processes on Earth has been widely accepted. Here I redefine and discuss the application of this concept to extraterrestrial exploration for evidence of life or prebiotic organic synthesis. Nonbiomarkers are also considered in this context.
No associations
LandOfFree
Biomarkers (molecular fossils) as geochemical indicators of life does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Biomarkers (molecular fossils) as geochemical indicators of life, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Biomarkers (molecular fossils) as geochemical indicators of life will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1837599