The sweetness of space: Researchers discover sugar molecules that may reveal the origin of life

To mimic the conditions in cold molecular clouds, the researchers exposed mixtures of water, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and other compounds to ultraviolet light in a vacuum. (Image: Canva)

Space might have a secret ingredient: sweetness. Scientists have discovered a key molecule in the cosmos, hinting that the building blocks of life could be scattered across the universe.

Researchers have uncovered a key chemical clue in space. The discovery of glyceric acid, a simple sugar acid, offers new insights into the origins of life. This molecule plays a crucial role in metabolism, the process through which organisms convert food into energy.

The study, published in Physik, reveals a low-temperature pathway for glyceric acid production. This molecule is considered one of life’s building blocks, bridging the gap between prebiotic chemistry and modern biochemistry. “If we can make these small prebiotic molecules, they will form larger biochemicals," explained Ryan Fortenberry, associate professor at the University of Mississippi.

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Recreating Space Conditions in the Lab

To mimic the conditions in cold molecular clouds, the researchers exposed mixtures of water, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and other compounds to ultraviolet light in a vacuum. These conditions are similar to those in space, where cosmic rays stimulate chemical reactions. The experiment demonstrated that glyceric acid can form in the cold depths of space.

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Life's Building Blocks in the Universe

The presence of glyceric acid in molecular clouds, such as Sagittarius B2, supports the theory that life's essential molecules can form in space. "This discovery shows how atoms from stars can become biomolecules," said Fortenberry. The team now hopes telescopes like ALMA will detect glyceric acid in star-forming regions.

While we may never know if space is sweet or sour, this finding suggests that life’s ingredients may be scattered throughout the universe.