Breakthrough in Quantum biology: Cells programmed as 'fluorescent qubits'

Breakthrough In Quantum Biology: Cells Programmed as Fluorescent Qubits (Image: Canva)

Researchers at the University of Chicago have done something never done before by transforming fluorescent proteins into biological qubits. As a result of their experiment, the living cells will become quantum sensors. This was published in Nature on 20 August. It integrates quantum physics with cellular biology in an unprecedented way.

Qubits are quantum information components. They exist simultaneously in multiple states. Researchers have created qubits that are encapsulated within living cells by altering electron spin within enhanced yellow fluorescent proteins (EYFP). Coherent oscillations of around 16 microseconds are induced by laser pulses and confocal microscopy.

These biological qubits are very sensitive to electric and magnetic signals. They will enable nanoscale high-resolution studies of protein folding, cellular activity, and drug interactions. These types of quantum sensors have the potential to revolutionise medical imaging and enable earlier disease detection.

These living qubits work best at low temperatures but are less efficient at room temperature or at human body temperature. Less sensitive than solid-state qubits, but merging qubits with biology offers a pathway towards living quantum laboratories. It offers potential for unprecedented insights in biology and medicine.