What are four characteristics of the universal ancestor?

Question

What are four characteristics of the universal ancestor?

Answer 1

A genetic code based on DNA.

The genetic code is expressed by RNA intermediates.

The genetic code is expressed into proteins. All other properties of the organism (e.g. synthesis of lipids or carbohydrates) are the result of protein enzymes.

Proteins are assembled from free amino acids by translation of an mRNA by ribosomes, tRNA and a group of related proteins.

Only 20 amino acids are used, to the exclusion of countless non-standard amino acids; only the L-isomer is used.

Glucose can be used as a source of energy and carbon; only the D-isomer is used.

ATP is used as an energy intermediate.

The cell is surrounded by a cellular membrane composed of a lipid bilayer.

Inside the cell, the concentration of sodium is lower, and potassium higher than outside. This choice is arbitrary. This gradient is maintained by specific ion pumps.

The cell multiplies by duplicating all its contents, followed by cellular division.