# The Routes of Emergence of Life from LUCA during the RNA and Viral World: A Conspectus

## TL;DR

This paper explores how life on Earth may have evolved from the Last Universal Cellular Ancestor through genetic reorganization and horizontal gene transfer.

## Contribution

It compiles insights from leading scientists to advance understanding of LUCA and the origins of life.

## Key findings

- Researchers are reorganizing LUCA's genetics to understand the emergence of life's three domains.
- Horizontal gene transfer is highlighted as a key mechanism in early life evolution.
- The paper raises open questions about future research directions in this field.

## Abstract

How did life emerge on Earth? The aim of the Network of Researchers on Horizontal Gene Transfer and the Last Universal Cellular Ancestor (NoR HGT & LUCA) is to understand how the genetics of LUCAs were reorganised prior to the advent of the three domains of life. This paper reports the research of eminent scientists who have come together within the network and are making significant contributions to the wider knowledge base surrounding this, one of science’s remaining mysteries. I also report on their relevance in relation to LUCAs and life’s origins, as well as ask a question: what next?