The origin of the eukaryotic cell, with its compartmentalized nature and generally large size
compared with bacterial and archaeal cells, represents a cornerstone event in the evolution …

In this hypothesis article, we explore the origin of the eukaryotic nucleus. In doing so, we first
look afresh at the nature of this defining feature of the eukaryotic cell and its core functions …

The nature of the last universal common ancestor (LUCA), its age and its impact on the Earth
system have been the subject of vigorous debate across diverse disciplines, often based on …

The timing of early cellular evolution, from the divergence of Archaea and Bacteria to the
origin of eukaryotes, is poorly constrained. The ATP synthase complex is thought to have …

Nucleosomes are DNA–protein complexes composed of histone proteins that form the basis
of eukaryotic chromatin. The nucleosome was a key innovation during eukaryotic evolution …

Abstract Extremely halophilic archaea (Haloarchaea, Nanohaloarchaeota,
Methanonatronarchaeia and Halarchaeoplasmatales) thrive in saturating salt concentrations …

Microbial hydrogen (H 2) cycling underpins the diversity and functionality of diverse anoxic
ecosystems. Among the three evolutionarily distinct hydrogenase superfamilies …

Since their discovery, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have changed our view on how organisms
interact with their extracellular world. EVs are able to traffic a diverse array of molecules …

Argonaute proteins are the central effectors of RNA-guided RNA silencing pathways in
eukaryotes, playing crucial roles in gene repression and defense against viruses and …

The roles of Asgard archaea in eukaryogenesis and marine biogeochemical cycles are well
studied, yet their contributions in soil ecosystems remain unknown. Of particular interest are …