TUM Team Uses Radio Waves to Read Protein Quantum States

Researchers at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) have demonstrated a new method of influencing quantum states within proteins using radio waves, a discovery published in Nature Biotechnology. Unlike traditional quantum sensors built from solid-state materials, these biological molecules offer the potential for genetic production and precise tailoring for biosensing applications directly within living systems. The team, led by Professor Dominik Bucher of the TUM School of Natural Sciences, found they could alter the luminescence of light-sensitive proteins, specifically flavoproteins, by applying radio waves, effectively controlling underlying quantum processes. “Protein-based approaches can not only serve as sensors, but also open the possibility of controlling biological processes with radio waves in a targeted manner,” explains Bucher. This breakthrough suggests a future where biochemical activity can be detected and directed remotely via electromagnetic fields.

Flavoprotein Spin Control via Radio Wave Irradiation

Proteins are now being explored as a base for quantum sensors, offering the potential to be genetically produced and specifically tailored for biosensing applications, unlike traditionally used solid-state materials like diamonds. This discovery, published in Nature Biotechnology on May 29, moves beyond simply detecting biological activity to potentially directing it remotely. The protein samples used in the study were provided by the research group of Professor Erik Schleicher at the University of Freiburg. By applying radio waves, the researchers observed a measurable change in the luminescence of these proteins, proving that external electromagnetic fields can influence these quantum states within a biological context.

This ability to manipulate spin states, similar to solid-state quantum sensors, suggests a future where biological processes within cells can be controlled externally, with potential applications ranging from biological quantum sensors to remotely triggered gene expression. Doctoral student and first author of the study, Kun Meng, said, “The possibilities range from biological quantum sensors to radio wave-controlled cell activity, such as remotely controlled gene expression.” The research involved collaboration with the Cluster of Excellence Munich Center for Quantum Science and Technology and the University of Marburg.

The pursuit of increasingly sensitive quantum sensors has traditionally focused on solid-state materials, but a shift toward biological systems is gaining momentum. Proteins are now being investigated as a viable alternative due to their potential for genetic production and tailored biosensing capabilities. This approach moves beyond simply detecting biochemical activity, opening the possibility of externally controlling processes within living systems.

Optically Detected Magnetic Fields in Protein Samples

Researchers are now harnessing the potential of proteins as the foundation for quantum sensing, moving beyond diamond-based systems. Instead of relying on solid-state materials, this approach utilizes proteins that can be genetically produced and tailored for specific biosensing applications, potentially allowing quantum sensors to be integrated directly into living cells or tissues. This control extends to the potential for remotely influencing cellular functions, such as gene expression. The protein samples used in the study were provided by the research group of Professor Erik Schleicher at the University of Freiburg.