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Updated: Jul 16, 2025

All-optical Mechanobiology Interrogation of Yes-associated Protein in Human Cancer and Normal Cells using a Multi-functional System
Published on: December 20, 2021
Wireless electrical-molecular quantum signalling for cancer cell apoptosis
Akhil Jain1, Jonathan Gosling2, Shaochuang Liu3
1Bioelectronics Laboratory, Division of Regenerative Medicine and Cellular Therapies, School of Pharmacy, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
Researchers developed wireless nano-electrochemical tools to control electron transfer in cancer cells, triggering apoptosis via quantum biological tunneling. This breakthrough offers potential for novel quantum-based cancer treatments.
Area of Science:
- Quantum biology
- Nanotechnology
- Cancer research
Background:
- Quantum biological tunneling is crucial for life's essential functions like cellular respiration.
- Controlling quantum effects in biology offers potential for modulating biological functions.
- Targeting cancer cells requires precise control over cellular processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop wireless nano-electrochemical tools for controlling electron transfer in cancer cells.
- To investigate the potential of quantum biological tunneling for inducing cancer cell death.
- To demonstrate selective targeting and modulation of cancer cell signaling.
Main Methods:
- Functionalization of gold bipolar nanoelectrodes with redox-active cytochrome c and zinc porphyrin to create bio-nanoantennae.
- Application of remote electrical input to regulate electron transport between redox molecules.
- Utilizing patient-derived cancer cells to test the efficacy of the bio-nanoantennae.
- Analysis of transcriptomics data to understand the mechanism of action.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated remote electrical control over electron transfer via quantum biological tunneling.
- Successfully triggered apoptosis (programmed cell death) in patient-derived cancer cells selectively.
- Bio-nanoantennae showed unique targeting of cancer cells, indicating electrically induced control of molecular signaling.
- Validated the potential of quantum effects for medical applications.
Conclusions:
- Wireless nano-electrochemical tools can precisely control quantum biological electron transfer.
- This technology enables selective induction of cancer cell death.
- The findings open avenues for quantum-based medical diagnostics and cancer treatments.
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