DNA is often considered the “building block of life.” RNA, or ribonucleic acid, arguably has a powerful role of its own in essential life functions. The Catalyst: RNA and the Quest to Unlock Life’s Deepest Secrets, is Thomas R. Cech’s dive into the world of RNA and how it serves an essential role in helping save or prolong lives.
Cech is a Nobel Laureate for his research into the role of RNA in serving as a catalyst to speed up biochemical reactions. Without getting too into the weeds scientifically, Cech and others in biochemical fields began to see how RNA could help in developing effective antibiotics to stem off infections and, more recently, vaccines (via mRNA). You’ve likely heard of mRNA, especially if you’ve had a COVID-19 vaccine in recent years, as the vaccine uses mRNA to bypass the process of training DNA in recognizing and combating disease. Thus, the “catalyst” that becomes the impetus and focus of Cech’s book.
The Catalyst is an informative and highly technical journey into the history of RNA research. If you have a decent grasp of science and curiosity about disease and epidemics, you will likely enjoy this book. At times, I had to re-read a few sections because of the level of technical detail involved. However, Cech does a good job overall explaining the importance of RNA in modern medical research and the likely role it will play in the years to come.
MY RATING: 4
