[hadlock]

Based on the current sample size of one life bearing planet, DNA/RNA is the most durable example we have that produces results at this time. As soon as a second nucleotide is discovered as functional, this will be up for discussion.

[hoseja]

"Based on the current sample size of one writing system having civilization, hieroglyphs are the most durable example we have that produces results at this time. As soon as a second way of record keeping is discovered as functional, this will be up for discussion."

[Razengan]

But we can infer that life could exist without DNA. It could be similar to our machines, made of different materials and replicating through other ways.

[ffhhj]

There is a definition of life that comprises any mechanism that controls its own entropy. Maybe there are energy-based interactions that fit this description like systems with no matter involved, or very high-scale/long-term systems.