Chemical Evolution and Origin of Life in Marine Hydrothermal Systems

To determine likely constituents necessary for neoabiogenesis according to the state of art of the origin of life sciences and thermodynamic calculations.

To review available data concerning primordial monomers and polymers already observed in hydrothermal systems (for example, carboxylic acids, amino acids, cyano- and heterocyclic compounds); compile a list of potential substances that have to be searched for; and differentiate compounds formed abiogenically and biogenically.

To evaluate the role of different classes of possible inorganic catalysts which may be required for the synthesis of organic compounds in hydrothermal systems.

To sponsor a symposium and published set of papers in 1992 summarizing the state of knowledge and identifying research opportunities in this field.