A consortium of Dutch researchers, known as Building a Synthetic Cell (BaSyc), is exploring the origins of life from lifeless molecules.

Led by Bert Poolman, a Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Groningen, the team focuses on reconstructing energy conversion processes centered around mitochondria, often referred to as the 'powerhouse of the cell.'

In their groundbreaking work, the researchers created a simplified version of mitochondria using only five components, significantly fewer than the hundreds found in natural mitochondria.

They developed vesicles capable of absorbing ADP and arginine, utilizing the deamination of arginine to produce ATP, thereby establishing a looping energy cycle.

Two recent papers published in Nature Nanotechnology and Nature Communications detail their success in recreating simplified mitochondria and nutrient transport mechanisms within a synthetic cell.

The nutrient transport process in their synthetic cell was achieved using just two components, which is crucial for cell function.

However, the synthetic components are currently limited, relying solely on arginine as an energy source, unlike natural cells that can utilize a variety of molecules such as fats and sugars.

Ultimately, the research aims to create a blueprint for life, which could have significant applications and deepen our understanding of biological processes.

This research also seeks to illuminate how the basic building blocks of life formed on Earth billions of years ago.

Looking ahead, the BaSyc consortium is transitioning into a new group called EVOLF, which will continue this research for another decade, with the goal of simulating how life emerged from non-life.