This got me wondering: what is the advantage of genetic information (DNA / RNA) over a self-replicating entity without those convenient molecules?
My impression is that DNA / RNA-based organisms have a high tolerance for changes to their DNA / RNA, such that many genetic changes won't cause them to lose their self-replicating ability. This is great for evolution.
Prions, on the other hand, seem like they would have a low reproductive tolerance for changes to their structure.
My impression is that DNA / RNA-based organisms have a high tolerance for changes to their DNA / RNA, such that many genetic changes won't cause them to lose their self-replicating ability. This is great for evolution.
Prions, on the other hand, seem like they would have a low reproductive tolerance for changes to their structure.