Pna Survives Venus-Like Conditions: Redefining Potential for Life

Venus has long been considered an unlikely place for life due to its harsh environment. Its thick clouds contain sulfuric acid, chlorine, and iron. These conditions seemed impossible for organic molecules to endure. However, a new study from Wrocław University of Science and Technology suggests otherwise. Researchers found that peptide nucleic acid (PNA), a DNA-like molecule, can withstand these extreme conditions. PNA is a structural cousin of DNA, but more resilient. The research, published in *Science Advances*, demonstrates PNA's survival in Venus-like cloud conditions. An international team tested PNA in a 98% sulfuric acid solution at room temperature for two weeks. Surprisingly, it remained stable. Dr. Janusz Jurand Petkowski, the study's lead author, stated that their experiments proved otherwise. "Many people assume concentrated sulfuric acid destroys all organic molecules, making life impossible." PNA showed exceptional stability, suggesting sulfuric acid could act as a solvent for life. This finding builds on previous discoveries, including the detection of phosphine gas in Venus's atmosphere in 2020. Phosphine is typically produced in oxygen-poor environments and is considered a possible sign of life. Around the same time, a team from Cardiff University found evidence of ammonia on Venus. Dr. William Bains from Cardiff University, part of the earlier studies, noted the hostility of Venus's clouds. He added that their new research shows complex organic chemistry might still be possible. The research team aims to create a genetic polymer stable across Venus's atmospheric temperatures. According to Dr. Petkowski, PNA remains stable in sulfuric acid below 50°C. Venus's cloud temperatures range from 0°C to 100°C. This breakthrough could redefine our understanding of where life might exist in the universe. These findings suggest that life might not be limited to Earth-like environments. Venus, with its acid-filled clouds, might be hiding the building blocks of life.