New scientific experiments and asteroid evidence suggest RNA, a key life molecule, may have formed naturally on early Earth. Findings published in December 2025 indicate life’s building blocks were widespread, possibly arriving from space and forming earlier than previously believed.

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•  Scientists recreate early Earth chemistry to study life’s origins
•  RNA identified as first genetic molecule, before DNA
•  Experiments show RNA can form through simple chemical steps
•  Borates once seen as blockers now aid RNA formation
•  Heating and drying cycles mimic ancient underground aquifers
•  RNA formed successfully under simulated early Earth conditions
•  Asteroid Bennu samples contain ribose, a key RNA ingredient
•  NASA mission returned 120 grams of Bennu material
•  Large asteroid impacts may have delivered RNA components
•  Findings suggest life’s building blocks common across universe