Summary
It is unknown whether biological processes make direct use of quantum effects, as opposed to depending merely on the influence of quantum physics on chemical bonding and molecular structure. We are testing the hypothesis that entangled pairs of phosphorus-31 atoms may link the function of remotely located neurons within the vertebrate brain. Using a rat brain model and an array of instruments and techniques, we are exploring the possibility that dissociation of pyrophosphate molecules sends entangled 31P atoms into separate neurons with physiologic consequences. We are also investigating whether there are systematic differences in neuronal action potential when we subject the neuronal tissue to different isotopes of lithium. If we can show that remotely entangled atoms link the functions of separate neurons, this may provide insight into a range of biological mysteries, such as olfaction, magneto-navigation by the European Robin, and the actions of lithium in treating mood disorders.
Related Content
Molecular Scale Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Through its phenomenal ability to image soft tissues, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has revolutionized both clinical medicine and research biomedicine.
September 9, 2016
Combined momentum- and real-space photoelectric probes of dimensionality-tuned Weyl semimetals
Summary The library of two-dimensional (2D) materials has recently grown to include topological insulators and semimetals. Their incorporation in special device geometries may lead to novel quantum electronics with enhanced functionalities. Weyl semimetals, in particular, offer the most robust form of topological protection. Recent results from our group indicate that Weyl nodes should be […]
March 12, 2019
Hybrid Quantum Materials towards Topological Quantum Computing
Summary Proximity engineered hybrid materials have shown promise for topological quantum information processing. This form of quantum computing provides a stable, error-tolerant approach for building scalable quantum information processors. Topological quantum computing relies on braiding non-Abelian particles, such as Majorana fermions, which do not exist in nature. One can however use materials engineering to […]
December 8, 2018