All five DNA/RNA nucleobases found in 4.5‑billion‑year‑old asteroid Ryugu

Scientists have identified all five essential nucleobases—adenine, guanine, cytosine, thymine, and uracil—present in pristine samples from asteroid Ryugu. This discovery shows that the key ingredients for DNA and RNA existed in space billions of years ago. It reinforces evidence from other asteroids and meteorites that such molecules were widespread throughout the early Solar System.