Abstract

Overview

The study investigates the phenomena of light-independent magnetoreception in humans, discussing the geomagnetic field's biological impact and possible mechanisms for magnetic sensing.

Findings

• The Earth's iron abundance is crucial for generating its geomagnetic field and supporting the evolutionary development of life, particularly around deep-sea hydrothermal vents.
• Despite a lack of a clearly identified geomagnetic sensing organ in humans, life forms including zebrafish, pigeons, and humans exhibit magnetic sensitivity through various sensory systems.
• The study explores the evolution of life from Earth's formation to human magnetoreception, focusing on potential mechanisms such as the magnetite hypothesis and electromagnetic induction.

Conclusion

Vertebrates, including humans, may detect the geomagnetic field via light-independent systems. The underlying sensory mechanisms, potentially involving the trigeminal nerve and vestibular nerve, remain unidentified but crucial for understanding magnetoreception in humans.