Astrobiologists studying hydrothermal vents have tested a theory that simple metabolic reactions around ancient deep sea hot springs could have led to the origin of life on Earth. The study, performed at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI), shows that this ‘metabolism first’ hypothesis may have been more difficult than scientists previously though.

The study centers around a molecule known as methanethiol, which is thought to be a critical precursor for life as we know it. The researchers questioned whether or not methanethiol could form naturally at vent sites without life being involved.

The findings provide new insight into how the Earth could have transitioned from a non-living to living world. Results of the study will also be helpful in determining the potential for life on other planets.

This research was supported in part by the Astrobiology Science and Technology for Exploring Planets (ASTEP) element of NASA’s Astrobiology Program. The paper, “The origin of methanethiol in midocean ridge hydrothermal fluids,” was published in the Proceeding of the National Academy of Science under lead author Eoghan P. Reeves.