Synthesis of adenine from HCN tetramer and ammonium formate.
Adenine is formed in about 18% yield when HCN tetramer is heated with ammonium formate at 110 degrees C. The prebiotic significance of this reaction is discussed.
Hill
Aubrey
A
Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 N. Torrey Pines Road, San Diego, CA 92037-1099, USA.
Orgel
Leslie E
LE
D000225:Adenine / Q000138:chemical synthesis* / Q000737:chemistry*; D005561:Formates; D006856:Hydrogen Cyanide; D012996:Solutions
D005561:Formates; D012996:Solutions; C030544:formic acid; D006856:Hydrogen Cyanide; D000225:Adenine