Definition

Quantum Biology is the study of how quantum mechanics—the science of the very small—affects biological processes. It explores phenomena like superposition, tunneling, and entanglement within living systems.

Key Concepts

1. Quantum Mechanics in Biology

  • Superposition: Particles can exist in multiple states simultaneously until measured.
  • Entanglement: Particles become linked, sharing information instantly across distances.
  • Tunneling: Particles pass through barriers they normally couldn’t cross.

2. Biological Processes Influenced by Quantum Effects

  • Photosynthesis
  • Enzyme Catalysis
  • Olfaction (sense of smell)
  • Magnetoreception in animals

Diagrams

Quantum Tunneling in Enzymes
Quantum Tunneling Diagram

Photosynthesis and Quantum Coherence
Photosynthesis Quantum Coherence

Detailed Examples

Photosynthesis

  • Process: Plants convert sunlight into energy.
  • Quantum Role: Energy travels through proteins via quantum coherence, allowing efficient energy transfer.
  • Evidence: Experiments show energy moves like a wave, not a particle, maximizing efficiency.

Enzyme Catalysis

  • Process: Enzymes speed up chemical reactions.
  • Quantum Role: Proton tunneling allows reactions to occur faster than classical physics predicts.
  • Example: Alcohol dehydrogenase uses tunneling for rapid conversion of alcohols.

Magnetoreception

  • Process: Birds navigate using Earth’s magnetic field.
  • Quantum Role: Entangled electrons in cryptochrome proteins help birds sense magnetic fields.

Case Study: Quantum Effects in Photosynthesis

Background:
Photosynthetic organisms (plants, algae, some bacteria) use sunlight to create energy. The initial step involves capturing photons and transferring energy through a network of pigment-protein complexes.

Quantum Phenomenon:

  • In 2007, researchers found evidence for quantum coherence in energy transfer within the Fenna-Matthews-Olson (FMO) complex of green sulfur bacteria.
  • Energy moves through multiple pathways simultaneously, thanks to quantum superposition, increasing efficiency.

Recent Research:
A 2022 study published in Nature Communications (“Quantum coherence in photosynthetic energy transfer at room temperature”) confirmed that quantum coherence persists in living systems at biological temperatures, not just under artificial conditions.

Implications:

  • Photosynthesis is more efficient than previously thought.
  • Quantum effects may be harnessed for artificial photosynthesis and solar cells.

Surprising Facts

  1. Quantum Coherence Survives in Warm, Wet Biological Systems
    Quantum effects were thought to be fragile and only exist in cold, isolated environments. Living cells maintain quantum coherence at room temperature.

  2. Migratory Birds May Use Quantum Entanglement to Navigate
    Some birds can sense magnetic fields using proteins in their eyes that rely on quantum entanglement.

  3. Quantum Tunneling Occurs in DNA Mutations
    Proton tunneling in DNA can lead to spontaneous mutations, showing quantum effects can influence evolution.

Common Misconceptions

  • Quantum Biology is Science Fiction:
    Many believe quantum effects are too delicate for life’s warm, chaotic conditions. Recent research disproves this.

  • Only Large-Scale Physics Matters in Biology:
    Classical physics explains much, but quantum mechanics is crucial for understanding some biological processes.

  • Quantum Biology Is Not Relevant to Everyday Life:
    Quantum effects are present in processes like photosynthesis, vision, and smell—essential to life.

Plastic Pollution in Deep Oceans

  • Fact:
    Plastic pollution has been discovered in the Mariana Trench, the deepest part of the ocean.
  • Impact:
    Microplastics affect deep-sea organisms, potentially interfering with biological processes, including those influenced by quantum mechanics (e.g., enzyme activity).
  • Source:
    Jamieson et al., 2020, Marine Pollution Bulletin: Microplastic contamination found in amphipods from the Mariana Trench.

Recent Research & News

  • Quantum Biology Advances:
    Nature Communications, 2022: Quantum coherence observed in photosynthetic energy transfer at room temperature.
  • Plastic Pollution:
    Marine Pollution Bulletin, 2020: Plastic found in the deepest ocean trenches, highlighting the reach of human impact.

Summary Table

Process Quantum Effect Biological Role Evidence
Photosynthesis Coherence Energy transfer FMO complex studies
Enzyme Catalysis Tunneling Speeding reactions Alcohol dehydrogenase
Magnetoreception Entanglement Navigation Cryptochrome proteins
DNA Mutation Tunneling Genetic variation Proton transfer studies

Revision Checklist

  • [ ] Know definitions of quantum mechanics and quantum biology
  • [ ] Understand key quantum effects (superposition, entanglement, tunneling)
  • [ ] Explain quantum effects in photosynthesis, enzymes, magnetoreception
  • [ ] Recall case study on photosynthesis
  • [ ] List three surprising facts
  • [ ] Identify and correct common misconceptions
  • [ ] Cite recent research and news articles

References:

  • Quantum coherence in photosynthetic energy transfer at room temperature. Nature Communications, 2022.
  • Jamieson, A.J. et al. Microplastic contamination in deep-sea organisms. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 2020.