[Abiogenic photochemical synthesis of amino acids in an aqueous medium containing carbohydrates and nitrates].

Ultraviolet light (PRK-2) induces the formation of various amino acids (lysine, asparaginic, as well as traces of some other acids) in mannose, glucose and arabinose solutions containing various nitrates. K+, Co2+, Ni2+ and Fe3+ significantly sensitize the formation of amino acids. In the atmosphere of N2, synthesis of appreciable amounts of glutamic acid takes place, wherease in the atmosphere of O2 or CO2 the latter is produced only in traces. Photolysis of glucose and mannose in nitrate-free solutions in the atmosphere of N2 results in the formation of lysine and glutamic acid. The data obtained show that in pre-biologic conditions in the hydrosphere of Earth (possibly, of other planets as well), abiogenically formed organic substances, e. g. carbohydrates, unter the influence of UV irradiation could be transformed into amino acids. Nitrates present in the water milieu could serve as a source of nitrogen in the amino acids synthesis.