Microfluidic Experiments exploring Thermal Force approaches to the Origin of Life
Abstract
Microfluidic experiments are discussed where temperature gradients across mesoscopic pores provide essential boundary conditions for autonomous molecular evolution: (1) Laminar thermal convection can drive exponential DNA replication as the molecules are continuously cycled between hot and cold regions of a chamber. (2) Thermophoresis can induce strong accumulation of charged biopolymers such as DNA in the same convection settings. Combined, the experiments demonstrate a robust nonequilibrium boundary condition for the replication and accumulation of evolving molecules. The experimental conditions are comparable to conditions in porous rocks near submarine hydrothermal mounds. It is expected that further studies of microscopic open systems can reveal further unexpected connecting pieces in the fascinating puzzle on the origins of life. 1. D. Braun, N.L. Goddard and A. Libchaber, Exponential DNA Replication by Laminar Convection, Physical Review Letters 91:158103 (2003) 2. D. Braun & A. Libchaber, Trapping of DNA by Thermophoretic Depletion and Convection, Physical Review Letters 89:188103 (2002) 3. D. Braun & A. Libchaber, Thermal force approach to molecular evolution, Physical Biology, accepted
- Publication:
-
35th COSPAR Scientific Assembly
- Pub Date:
- 2004
- Bibcode:
- 2004cosp...35..781B