First time posting, so thanks in advance to everyone!

I am working on creating a life form that is made of complex or “dusty” plasma. My inspiration is a 2003 study showing plasma forming into cell-like structures in a lab and a 2007 computer model showing dust particles in complex plasma can form double helix structures that have similarities to DNA.

Currently, I plan for my living plasmoid to be found in the ionosphere of an earth-like planet, possibly among noctilucent clouds, which are considered naturally occurring examples of complex plasma

My current evolution of these life forms is:

1. Self-replicating double helix structures form in the complex plasma of noctilucent clouds in the ionosphere (2007 study).
2. They become enclosed in a cell-like structure with a double layer of charged argon plasma acting as a “cell membrane”, as described in the 2003 study. Also as described in the study, they feed on neutral argon plasma, charge it, and assimilate it into the cell.
3. The plasmoid cells reproduce and evolve, varying in size and construction until they become specialized.
4. Symbiotic relationships form between these different cells which combine to form a more complex cell with organelles, analogous to eukaryotic cells. Among these organelles are a nucleus and the DNA-like structures.

This however is where I get stuck. How does such a cell power itself? What is its “food”? I know I mentioned argon earlier but I’m guessing by this point the cell is sophisticated enough it needs a dedicated “powerhouse” organelle. Ice is prevalent in noctilucent clouds, could the plasmoid melt it and use water in their structure somehow?

In summary, is my plasma based microbe plausible and how would it feed itself or produce energy? Any and all feedback or suggestions are truly appreciated:)