Quotes: Scientists have shown for the first time that "lifeless" prion proteins, devoid of all genetic material, can evolve just like higher forms of life. /// ... it's clear that you do not need nucleic acid (DNA or RNA) for the process of evolution.-Another discussion in this area of origin-of-life. We all must remember Darwin mechanisms do not start until life is present. There are two suggestions discussed:-http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/01/100108101433.htm