Quantum Physics in Biology & Medicine: Research & Advances

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Discussion Overview

The discussion explores the intersection of quantum physics with biology and medicine, focusing on current research, potential applications, and specific physiological processes that may be influenced by quantum mechanics. Topics include coherent energy transfer in photosynthesis and the implications for medical advancements.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants inquire about ongoing research into the application of quantum physics in biology and its impact on medicine.
  • One participant highlights nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) as a significant advancement in medical practice that is based on quantum physics.
  • Questions are raised about specific physiological processes that may be influenced by quantum mechanics, including bird navigation and energy transfer in photosynthesis.
  • Coherent energy transfer in photosynthesis is suggested to be a phenomenon that cannot be explained by classical physics, indicating a quantum mechanical basis.
  • Participants share references to literature on quantum biology, suggesting further reading on the topic.
  • There is a humorous exchange regarding the contentious nature of discussions on quantum interpretations, with references to minor tachyarrhythmia among forum participants.
  • Some participants express skepticism about the legitimacy of certain claims, while others provide links to recent studies supporting quantum effects in biological processes.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views on the relevance and implications of quantum physics in biology and medicine. While some support the idea of quantum effects being significant, others remain skeptical or highlight the contentious nature of interpretations within the community. No consensus is reached on the specific physiological processes or the extent of quantum influence.

Contextual Notes

Limitations in the discussion include varying interpretations of quantum phenomena and the potential for differing definitions of terms like "quantum biology." The scope of the inquiry remains broad, with participants exploring multiple angles without resolving specific claims.

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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