The role that clay theorized by some to have played in the origin of life?

Clay minerals are theorized to have played a crucial role in the origin of life by providing a surface for organic molecules to accumulate and undergo complex chemical reactions. Their layered structures may have facilitated the formation of RNA or other polymers, essential for the emergence of early life forms. Additionally, clays can catalyze various biochemical reactions, potentially aiding in the self-organization and replication processes necessary for life to begin. This "clay hypothesis" suggests that these minerals could have acted as a prebiotic environment where life could emerge.