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			<gallery>
			File:Phospholipids_aqueous_solution_structures.svg\|Phospholipids in aqueous solution structures
			File:Micelle_scheme-en.svg\|Micelle structure
			File:Pore_schematic.svg\|Pore schematic
			File:Lipid_bilayer_section.gif\|Lipid bilayer section
			File:Surfactant.jpg\|Surfactant
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'''Protocell''' is a theoretical self-replicating, self-organizing, non-living entity that exhibits some characteristics of life. Protocells are considered the precursors to [[life]] and are a key component in theories about the [[origin of life]].

== Definition ==
A protocell is defined as a self-organized, endogenously ordered, spherical collection of [[lipids]] proposed as a stepping-stone to the origin of life. Protocells are not living organisms as they do not possess a genetic system, but they provide a path for understanding how life might have originated from non-living matter.

== Composition ==
Protocells are composed of simple organic molecules that are believed to have existed on the prebiotic earth. The primary components of protocells are lipids, which are capable of self-assembling into a bilayer, forming a membrane. This membrane encapsulates a variety of organic molecules, allowing for chemical reactions to occur within a contained environment.

== Formation ==
The formation of protocells is believed to have occurred in the early stages of the Earth's existence, during the [[Hadean]] and [[Archean]] eons. The process involves the self-assembly of lipids into a bilayer, followed by the encapsulation of organic molecules. This process is driven by the hydrophobic effect, where non-polar molecules aggregate to minimize their exposure to water.

== Significance ==
Protocells are significant in the study of the origin of life as they provide a plausible pathway from simple organic molecules to complex living organisms. They demonstrate how self-organization and self-replication could have occurred in the prebiotic world, leading to the emergence of life.

== Research ==
Research into protocells is a multidisciplinary field, involving aspects of [[chemistry]], [[biology]], [[physics]], and [[earth science]]. Current research focuses on understanding the properties of protocells, such as their stability, growth, division, and ability to encapsulate and process information.

== See also ==
* [[Abiogenesis]]
* [[RNA world hypothesis]]
* [[Miller–Urey experiment]]
* [[Panspermia]]

== References ==
<references />

[[Category:Origin of life]]
[[Category:Cell biology]]
[[Category:Evolutionary biology]]
{{biology-stub}}

Protocell - Revision history

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