Quantum Physics in Biology & Medicine: Research & Advances

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SUMMARY

Research is actively exploring the intersection of quantum physics and biology, particularly in medical advancements. Notably, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), a technique grounded in quantum mechanics, has significantly impacted medical practices. Key phenomena such as coherent energy transfer in photosynthesis exemplify quantum mechanics' role in biological processes. Additionally, bird navigation has been identified as a legitimate area of study influenced by quantum effects.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR)
  • Familiarity with coherent energy transfer in photosynthesis
  • Knowledge of quantum mechanics principles
  • Awareness of quantum biology literature
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of NMR in medical diagnostics
  • Explore coherent energy transfer mechanisms in photosynthesis
  • Study the phenomenon of quantum effects in avian navigation
  • Read "What is Life?" by Erwin Schrödinger for foundational concepts in quantum biology
USEFUL FOR

Researchers, biologists, medical professionals, and anyone interested in the applications of quantum physics in biological systems and medicine.

nnope
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Is there any research being conducted on how quantum physics can be used in biology? Has quantum physics, in any anyway, helped in the advancement of the medical field?
 
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I'd say NMR (aka IMR) is a great progress for the medical practice, and it's based on quantum physics, as is most of the modern technology, particularly this computer I'm typing this right now and the internet, which is a spin-off by CERN due to the necessity to exchange information in an efficient way, to share it with you.
 
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Add to my questions, are there any physiological processes that take place due to processes we observe in quantum mechanics?
 
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Coherent energy transfer in photosynthesis, a key process in biology, seems to be a completely quantum mechanical phenomenon, not explainable by classical physics.

Three important books on quantum biology, which give loads more:
Schrödinger E, 1942. What is Life?
Abbott D et al, 2008. Quantum Aspects of Life
Khalili J et al, 2014. Life on the Edge
 
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nnope said:
Add to my questions, are there any physiological processes that take place due to processes we observe in quantum mechanics?

Well there is the interesting phenomena of bird navigation.
http://hore.chem.ox.ac.uk/PDFs/The_Quantum_Robin.pdf

When I first heard of it I thought - pop-sci - how to put it nicely - half truth. But a little research showed it was legit.

Strange - but it seems to be true.

Thanks
Bill
 
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nnope said:
Add to my questions, are there any physiological processes that take place due to processes we observe in quantum mechanics?
It has, on rare occasions, led to episodes of very minor tachyarrhythmia in posters on internet forums... due

to the disputatious nature of interpretations... :-p
 
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OCR said:
It has, on rare occasions, led to episodes of very minor tachyarrhythmia in posters on internet forums... due

to the disputatious nature of interpretations... :-p
"Rare"? "Minor"? You're not seeing the stuff the mentors take down before anyone sees it...
 
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Nugatory said:
"Rare"? "Minor"? You're not seeing the stuff the mentors take down before anyone sees it...
Lol... :ok:

I don't think I need any interpretations to understand that... . :wink:
 

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