Researchers have developed a new method to reconstruct the genetic code of ancient organisms, potentially allowing them to study life forms that existed before LUCA (Last Universal Common Ancestor). This involves creating 'progenitors' – simplified genetic systems that mimic the characteristics of early life, and then evolving them in the lab to observe how complexity arises.
The clearest picture yet of LUCA suggests it was a relatively complex organism living 4.2 billion years ago, a time long considered too harsh for life to flourish.
