New in PNAS (Pub. Natl. Acad. Scis.) as of Dec 9, 2025 (vol. 122 #49):
Mojarro, A. Aponte, J. C. Dworkin, J. P. Prebiotic organic compounds in samples of asteroid Bennu indicate heterogeneous aqueous alteration e2512461122 pnas.2512461122
Organic compounds: yes, asteroids contain organic compounds, mostly the carbonaceous-chondrite asteroids. Further study of that carbonaceous chondrite Bennu (via OSIRIS-REx) yields yet more organics. We have now identified tryptophan, one of the necessary amino acids and one of the last we were hoping to have found. With all five nucleobases, sugars as separate precursors, and various amino acids, we’ve pretty much rounded out all the underlying organics needed for life. Oh, and that’s in addition to the even more fundamental water, carbon in multiple forms, bioavailable nitrogen, sufficient phosphorus, and no shortage of sulfur.
Asteroidal materials: truly, the stuff of the heavens.