Protobionts are hypothesized precursors to the first living cells, and they are thought to have had a boundary (such as a membrane), contained polymers that stored information (like nucleic acids), had polymers with enzymatic functions (to catalyze reactions), and had the capability to replicate themselves. This combination of features is what would have allowed them to eventually lead to living cells.

Solved

A Protobiont

Question 4

Multiple Choice

A protobiont

A) has a boundary, or membrane.
B) contains polymers inside that store information.
C) has a boundary and contains polymers inside that store information.
D) polymers that have enzymatic functions.
E) has a boundary, contains polymers that store information and other polymers that act as enzymes, and it can replicate itself.

Correct Answer: