Vital Question

Energy, Evolution, and the Origins of Complex Life

Nick Lane

The book explores the role of energy and cellular mechanisms, particularly the function of mitochondria, in the evolution of complex life on Earth. It presents a hypothesis on how the energy constraints of early cells may have driven the emergence of complex organisms through endosymbiosis.

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Power, Sex, Suicide

Mitochondria and the meaning of life

Nick Lane

The book delves into the pivotal role of mitochondria in the evolution of life, exploring how these organelles influence complex life through cellular energy production, aging, and death. It also examines the intriguing connection between mitochondrial function and various aspects of biology, including sex differentiation and the mechanisms behind some diseases.

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Oxygen

The molecule that made the world

Nick Lane

The book explores the pivotal role of oxygen in the evolution of life on Earth, detailing how its rise led to the development of complex life forms and influenced aging and disease. It combines scientific research with historical narrative to explain oxygen's impact on biological processes and the environment over billions of years.

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