红色荧光蛋白(RFP)
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Nature:量子生物学里程碑!斯坦福团队首次在活体动物中拨动量子开关,远程遥控基因表达
生物世界· 2026-03-23 04:53
Core Viewpoint - The research conducted by Stanford University represents a groundbreaking achievement in bridging quantum physics and biology, successfully controlling spin-correlated radical pair (SCRP) dynamics in vivo using magnetic resonance technology, which opens new avenues for remote control of biological processes such as gene expression and highlights the broader potential of quantum tools in biomedicine [3][15]. Group 1: Quantum Biology Milestone - Scientists have long been curious about how weak magnetic fields influence living systems, with phenomena such as migratory birds navigating using Earth's magnetic field potentially linked to quantum mechanics [7]. - SCRP, a pair of special free radicals, can undergo chemical reactions based on their spin states, which can be subtly adjusted by external magnetic fields, akin to tuning a radio [7][8]. Group 2: Engineering Quantum Systems - The research team engineered a quantum-sensitive system in multicellular organisms by combining red fluorescent protein (RFP) and flavin cofactor, allowing the formation of SCRP in modified Caenorhabditis elegans [9]. - A sophisticated experimental setup was designed, utilizing Helmholtz coils for static magnetic fields and a ring resonator for radiofrequency magnetic fields, functioning as a quantum "remote control" to precisely manipulate the state of free radicals within the nematodes [11]. Group 3: Experimental Findings - The study observed a 6% decrease in the fluorescence intensity of RFP under appropriate static magnetic fields, which significantly increased when a specific frequency of radiofrequency magnetic field was applied, aligning with quantum theoretical predictions [12]. - The quantum coherence time of these free radical pairs exceeded 4 nanoseconds, demonstrating that quantum coherence can exist and be controlled in complex biological environments [13]. Group 4: Future Implications - The research signifies a shift in quantum biology from merely observing natural phenomena to actively designing and engineering applications, with potential future applications including non-invasive cancer treatments through remote gene expression control and the development of quantum-sensitive biosensors [15].