University Chemistry ›› 2026, Vol. 41 ›› Issue (2): 353-359.doi: 10.12461/PKU.DXHX202505017

Special Issue:

• Science Education • Previous Articles     Next Articles

D-Amino Acids and Mirror-Image Proteins

Zhi Zheng1, Feiyang Liu1, Junlong Zhao2   

  1. 1 National Chemistry Experimental Teaching Demonstration Center, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, China;
    2 School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China
  • Received:2025-05-08 Accepted:2025-05-22 Published:2025-12-27
  • Contact: Junlong Zhao E-mail:zhaojunlong327@163.com

Abstract: Mirror-image proteins, composed of D-amino acids and glycine, exhibit distinct structures and functions compared to natural proteins. Starting from the homochirality hypothesis of life’s origin, this article introduces synthetic methods and applications of mirror-image amino acids and proteins. While highlighting their positive societal impacts, we also address potential risks of mirror-image life, aiming to provide a balanced view on this technology’s development.

Key words: Mirror-image proteins, D-amino acids, Homochirality, Mirror-image life