TITLE: Porphyrin-like compounds genesis under simulated 
       abiotic conditions


Authors: Simionescu, C. I.  Simionescu, B. C.  Mora, R.  Leanca, M. 
         (Iasi, Institutul Politehnic) 


Journal Title: Origins of Life  Volume: 9 Page: Dec. 197 


Published: Dec 01, 1978 


Pages: 12 


Abstract: 
Experiments with gas mixtures intended to simulate the primaeval 
atmosphere of the Earth yielded many biologically important chemicals.
Investigations into the synthesis of porphyrin-like compounds from 
methane, ammonia and water vapour were carried out by using high 
frequency discharges. Microanalyses of porphyrins showed that 
porphyrin-like pigments were formed in this way. The presence 
of divalent cations in the reaction system increased the yield 
of porphyrin-like pigments also involving the direct synthesis of 
their metal complexes. The ready formation of these compounds in 
abiotic conditions is significant, suggesting the posibility of 
their appearance during the early stage of chemical evolution. 

Notes: 
Origins of Life, vol. 9, Dec. 1978, p. 103-114. 
p. 103-114