RNA from space
The molecule (Z)-1,2-ethenediol was recently identified in the molecular cloud G+0.693-0.027 in the galactic center. It is a precursor of sugar, as found in RNA, the carrier of genetic information, and may provide insights into the origin of life on Earth through the formation of molecules from space. SimTech doctoral student Juan Carlos del Valle Morales is investigating the formation of the molecule in the interstellar medium.