Definition of Biogenesis
The process of biogenesis is best described as life begets life. Chickens lay eggs, which hatch into chicks. Cows give birth to calves. A basic tenet of biogenesis is that a non-living organism cannot spawn a living organism.
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History
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The ancient Greeks, led by Aristotle, believed in abiogenesis, that life could form spontaneously from non-living matter.
Theories/Speculation
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Experimenting with insects in 1668, Italian physician Francesco Redi took the first major step in disputing abiogenesis. He published his findings in "Experiments on the Generation of Insects."
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Famous Ties
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Working with germs rather than insects, Louis Pasteur built upon Redi's work. His research proved that bacteria was responsible for spoiled food and led to the pasteurization process.
Controversy
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The law of biogenesis directly contradicts the theory that life on earth began with inanimate chemicals.
Potential
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Future biotechnical applications of biogenesis are intriguing. Scientist Stephane Compant and colleagues are working to develop a nontoxic pesticide from bacteria, while Damien Freyssenet is working to synthesis mitochondrial protein to improve the benefits of exercise in older people.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit adobemac: Flickr.com
