Catalytic activity is a critical protein function, but its natural evolution has never been observed. Researchers have now revealed the mutations and biochemical mechanisms by which two ancient nonenzymatic proteins acquired catalytic activity.
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Harms, M.J. Enzymes emerge by upcycling. Nat Chem Biol 14, 526–527 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41589-018-0064-x
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41589-018-0064-x