Organic analysis of peridotite rocks from the Ashadze and Logatchev hydrothermal sites

Int J Mol Sci. 2009 Jul 3;10(7):2986-2998. doi: 10.3390/ijms10072986.

Abstract

This article presents an experimental analysis of the organic content of two serpentinized peridotite rocks of the terrestrial upper mantle. The samples have been dredged on the floor of the Ashadze and Logatchev hydrothermal sites on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. In this preliminary analysis, amino acids and long chain n-alkanes are identified. They are most probably of biological/microbial origin. Some peaks remain unidentified.

Keywords: exobiology; organic geochemistry; origin of life; physical-chemistry; prebiotic synthesis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Alkanes / analysis
  • Amino Acids / analysis
  • Atlantic Ocean
  • Geologic Sediments / chemistry*
  • Hydrothermal Vents / chemistry*

Substances

  • Alkanes
  • Amino Acids