Essential elements of radical pair magnetosensitivity in Drosophila

Abstract

Overview

Many animals navigate using the Earth's geomagnetic field. The principle mechanism in magnetosensitivity largely centers around a reaction influenced by the geomagnetic field in a photoreceptor protein known as CRYPTOCHROME (CRY).

Findings

• A radical pair mechanism involving CRY does not fully explain some observed physiological and behavioral phenomena.
• Research incorporating electrophysiology and behavioral analysis shows that certain amino acids in Drosophila suffice in magnetoreception.
• Increased levels of flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) enhance magnetosensitivity, especially under the influence of blue light.

Conclusion

This study identifies the key components necessary for magnetoreception in Drosophila flies and illustrates the potential for non-CRY-dependent pathways in magnetic field response.