Why does a cell function? New arguments in favor of quantum effects

Area of Science:

• Biophysics
• Quantum Biology
• Cellular Processes

Background:

• Complex intracellular processes, including DNA folding, alternative splicing, mitochondrial function, and lysosomal enzyme transport, are not fully explained by classical physics.
• Levinthal's generalized paradox highlights the improbability of these processes occurring accurately and within realistic timescales under classical mechanics.
• The highly structured intracellular environment necessitates a deeper understanding beyond classical physical limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the feasibility of complex intracellular processes within the framework of classical physics.
• To explore quantum mechanical models for molecular interactions within the cell.
• To identify potential quantum phenomena that could explain cellular function and organization.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of intracellular processes: DNA folding, alternative splicing, mitochondrial function, enzyme transport.
• Application of Levinthal's generalized paradox to assess classical physics limitations.
• Construction of quantum mechanical models for biologically important molecule interactions, incorporating long-range effects.

Main Results:

• Classical physics appears insufficient to explain the accuracy and speed of observed intracellular processes.
• Quantum models reveal a significant role for the wavefunction's phase as a controlling parameter in molecular interactions.
• The cell's functional organization may rely on quantum principles, similar to computational devices.

Conclusions:

• Intracellular processes likely necessitate quantum mechanical explanations beyond classical physics.
• The phase of the wavefunction emerges as a critical factor in regulating biological molecular interactions.
• Proposed experiments aim to validate these quantum models and their implications for cellular function.