The Concept of Chirality in Life

Chirality is a fundamental property that dictates the handedness of molecules in nature, influencing the very structure of DNA across all life on Earth. This concept reflects how molecules exist in two distinct forms, like left and right hands, though only right-handed forms are predominant in biological systems. The exploration of chirality reveals that life is not ambidextrous; for instance, certain drugs are being developed using mirror-image molecules to exploit their potential longevity within biological systems. This research into chirality and mirror molecules opens up intriguing avenues for pharmaceutical advancements but also raises significant questions about the implications of creating life forms that mirror existing biological structures.