This research paper examines the current state of knowledge surrounding the evolution of eukaryotic cells, which are more complex than their prokaryotic counterparts. The paper focuses on the two key events involved in eukaryogenesis: the evolution of the host cell, which is now believed to be closely related to Asgard archaea, and the acquisition of mitochondria, which are thought to have originated from a free-living bacterium. The authors discuss the different hypotheses surrounding the timing and nature of these events and highlight the advancements made possible by metagenomic sequencing and phylogenetic analyses. They also explain the ongoing research on the functional roles of eukaryotic signature proteins (ESPs) found in Asgard archaea and propose future research avenues that will help us understand the enigmatic origins of the eukaryotic cell.

Research paper:
Vosseberg, J., van Hooff, J.J.E., Köstlbacher, S. et al. The emerging view on the origin and early evolution of eukaryotic cells. Nature 633, 295–305 (2024).

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