On the quantum nature of magnetic phenomena in biology

Abstract

Overview

The review explores the minute mechanisms through which weak magnetic fields impact biological organisms, shedding light on fundamental processes that remain largely underexplored.

Findings

• Distinguishes between magnetoreception (effect on specialized receptors) and nonspecific responses that do not involve such receptors.
• Highlights that nonspecific effects of weak magnetic fields are universal: occurring across all organisms and often obscured by random factors.
• Focuses on the quantum dynamics of magnetic moments in electrons, nuclei, and molecular rotations.
• Introduces the spin-chemical mechanism—potentially increasing sensitivity to weak fields through radical pairs within enzymes.

Conclusion

Quantum nonspecific effects are both general and universal, persisting across all life forms. Despite their random and often invisible nature, understanding and enhancing these effects can lead to improved reproducibility and practical applications, such as in cellular processes and translation enzymes.

Discusses rejected theories and emphasizes the potential of quantum mechanisms over classical approaches in explaining nonspecific effects.