A new discovery by researchers at the University of Cambridge could help explain how the first organisms emerged on Earth. The team found that certain types of molecules can self-assemble into structures that resemble cells, and that these structures can carry out some of the basic functions of living cells.

The research, published in the journal Nature Chemistry, could have implications for our understanding of the origins of life and the development of new therapies for diseases such as cancer.

The team, led by Professor Jeremy Sanders, found that certain types of molecules called organic molecules can self-assemble into structures that resemble cells. These structures, which the researchers call "synthetic cells," are able to take in nutrients, grow, and reproduce.

The synthetic cells are made up of a variety of organic molecules, including lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Lipids are fatty molecules that form the cell membrane, proteins are essential for cell function, and nucleic acids carry genetic information.

The researchers found that the synthetic cells were able to take in nutrients from their environment and use them to grow and reproduce. They were also able to respond to changes in their environment, such as changes in temperature or pH.

The team believes that synthetic cells could be used to study the origins of life and the development of new therapies for diseases such as cancer. Synthetic cells could also be used to create new materials and devices.

"We are very excited about these results," said Professor Sanders. "We believe that they could have a significant impact on our understanding of the origins of life and the development of new therapies for diseases such as cancer."

The research was funded by the European Research Council and the Royal Society.