A10: The evolutionary origin of the genetic code (Andres Jäschke)
The genetic code is a crucial mechanism of life that links a three-letter nucleobase code with the corresponding amino acid, thereby encoding proteins from genetic information. Despite its importance, the evolutionary origin of the genetic code remains poorly understood. We will use a novel sequencing-based high-throughput method to test various theories and proposals about the origin of coded peptide synthesis. Our experiments aim to shed light on whether the genetic code was a random accident or a consequence of molecular reactivities and affinities.