Proteins as biological quantum sensors
Researchers at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) have made an important advance in biological quantum sensor technology. They have developed and tested a mode of action that can be used to control proteins with the help of radio waves and make them visible via light.
The team led by Prof. Dominik Bucher used light-sensitive proteins (flavoproteins), in which blue light produces radical pairs with special spin properties. These sensitive quantum states react strongly to magnetic fields and can be influenced by targeted radio waves. The change is visually visible through the luminosity of the proteins.
In contrast to conventional solid-state-based quantum sensors, these protein-based systems can be genetically produced and introduced into cells or tissues in a targeted manner. In the future, they could detect biochemical processes directly in the living organism and even control them in the future.
The study, published in the journal Nature Biotechnology , shows the potential for applications in biosensing, remotely controlled gene expression and the study of living systems. The proteins act as a novel interface between quantum technology and biology.
In addition to TUM, scientists from the University of Freiburg and the University of Marburg were also involved in the research. The work is part of the Munich Center for Quantum Science and Technology (MCQST) Cluster of Excellence.
Original Paper:
Optically detected and radio wave-controlled spin chemistry in flavoproteins | Nature Biotechnology
Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR
Gender Notice. The personal designations used in this text always refer equally to female, male and diverse persons. Double/triple naming and gendered designations are used for better readability ected.
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