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4 years ago in Biochemistry By Krupa

Can quantum mechanics explain biological processes, and if so, how?

The field of quantum biology is fascinating but often speculative. I'm interested in moving beyond the theoretical and understanding if there are concrete, empirically supported examples. I'm asking to distinguish between provocative metaphor and legitimate mechanism—specifically, how quantum effects like coherence or tunneling could be sustained in warm, wet, and seemingly chaotic cellular environments.

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By Rutuja Pathare Answered 2 years ago

From my exposure to this interdisciplinary field, I believe it is plausible in very specific, finely-tuned contexts. The key is looking for processes where quantum effects like electron tunneling or coherent energy transfer provide a clear functional advantage. For instance, I have seen compelling evidence that enzyme catalysis may leverage tunneling to speed up reactions, and that the avian compass in migratory birds might involve radical pairs influenced by Earth's magnetic field. The mechanism isn't classical physics being replaced, but quantum effects providing a selective efficiency within a biological scaffold.

 

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