SELF-REPLICATING MOLECULES - A 2ND GENERATION

The use of self-complementary structures in replication experiments is discussed, and a second generation of self-replicating molecules is i ntroduced. Key design elements of the new system are described, specif ically a high affinity (K-a similar to 10(5) M(-1) in CDCl3) between t he two complementary reactive components and the careful placement of nucleophilic and electrophilic centers within the system. These consid erations preclude intramolecular reactions within two-component comple xes, thus minimizing undesirable background reactions. Autocatalysis i s observed in the new systems, and by using appropriate control experi ments the autocatalysis is traced to template effects.