Complexity of gene codes (Introduction)

by David Turell , Monday, August 16, 2010, 18:00 (5212 days ago) @ dhw

David has referred us to two websites, both of which as a non-scientist I find puzzling. I'll explain why, and then perhaps someone can shed some light on the issues.
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> http://www.physorg.com/news200842170.html
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> This deals with the discovery of a bacterium which researchers at Yale say is a remnant from the time before DNA. The cells use "ancient RNA technology to control modern gene expression", an ability "once believed to be possessed solely by proteins." Prof. Ron Breaker believes that early forms of life depended on such "RNA machines". So far so good. However, Breaker concludes with the statement that "a lot of sophisticated RNA gadgetry has gone extinct, but this study shows that RNA has the power needed to carry out complex biochemistry. [...] It makes the spontaneous emergence of life on earth much more palatable." 
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> Without climbing aboard the ID bandwagon, I would just like to know how the newly discovered complexities of RNA make the case for "spontaneous emergence" more palatable. -Thank you, dhw. Of course I noted that stupid final comment by the researcher. And usually I comment on those obligatory bows to the dying theory of an "RNA world" has to come first. I'm delighted others of us notice. The key issue in the article is the exact point I just made yesterday to George: these modifying mechanisms are probably ancient, and if so suggest design.