Quantum Coherence in Living Systems

Where Physics Meets Biology at the Nanoscale

The human brain achieves remarkable computational efficiency, performing complex decision-making while consuming only ~20 watts. My research explores how quantum mechanical processes in synaptic proteins and neural systems contribute to this efficiency, potentially enabling computational capabilities beyond classical limits.

↑ Watch above: Coherent state (cyan, synchronized) - quantum superposition enables efficient energy transfer.Decoherent state (purple, random) - environmental noise collapses quantum states into classical behavior.

Research Pillars

Exploring quantum effects across biological scales

Photosynthetic Quantum Biology

Investigating how photosystem II achieves 95% energy transfer efficiency through quantum coherence. My analysis revealed highly conserved aromatic residue networks creating "quantum corridors" that protect coherence at room temperature.

95%
Energy Transfer Efficiency

Neural Quantum Computation

Developing the Quantum-Enhanced Spike Frequency Adaptation (Q-SFA) model that explains rapid learning in brain-computer interfaces. Quantum tunneling in ion channels creates non-classical adaptation patterns distinguishable from classical neurons.

10x
Isotope Effect (P31 vs P32)

Quantum Signatures in BCI

Creating algorithms to detect quantum effects in neural recordings. The first 60 seconds of BCI learning show quantum coherence signatures that predict long-term performance, opening new avenues for enhanced neural interfaces.

2x
BCI Performance Gain

Interactive Q-SFA Model

Explore quantum effects in neural spike adaptation

What You're Seeing:

This simulation shows how a neuron fires differently when quantum effects are present. The blue trace represents voltage changes over time. When the voltage crosses a threshold, the neuron "spikes" (fires).

Try This:

  • Quantum Strength: Higher values create more irregular, efficient firing patterns - the neuron adapts faster
  • Isotope: P31 maintains quantum coherence 10x longer than P32, enabling sustained quantum effects
  • Input Current: More current = more spikes, but watch how quantum effects modulate the pattern!
0
Spikes/sec
0
Coherence Time (ms)
0
Quantum Score

Key Discoveries

From photosynthesis to neural computation

Photosystem II Electron Transfer Pathway

Below: Quantum tunneling in photosynthesis. The yellow wave shows an electron "tunneling" between protein complexes (P680 → Pheo → QA → QB). The distances shown (8-22 Å) are perfectly tuned for quantum effects - too close and the electron would move classically, too far and tunneling fails. This quantum design achieves 95% efficiency in converting light to chemical energy.

Photosystem II Analysis

Through computational analysis of photosystem II structures across diverse species, I identified a network of highly conserved aromatic residues positioned at precise distances (8-22 Å) optimal for quantum tunneling. These "quantum corridors" maintain coherence by:

  • Creating delocalized electronic states across cofactors
  • Providing intermediate electron transfer steps
  • Shielding from environmental decoherence

Neural Quantum Effects

The Q-SFA model reveals three quantum mechanisms operating in neural systems:

  • SNARE protein tunneling: Enables rapid synaptic vesicle fusion
  • Posner molecules (Ca₉(PO₄)₆): Act as "neural qubits" with coherence times of seconds
  • Microtubule quantum channels: Provide intracellular quantum communication

Publications & Research

Peer-reviewed papers and ongoing projects

Quantum Signatures in Biological Electron Transfer Systems

Computational identification of structural and genetic determinants of quantum coherence in photosynthetic reaction centers. Analysis of sequence conservation patterns in photosystem II revealed quantum-protective features maintained across billions of years of evolution.

Read Full Paper →

Quantum Foundations of Neural Computation (PhD Proposal)

A multi-scale investigation of learning and adaptation, proposing that quantum mechanical processes in synaptic proteins enable the brain's remarkable computational efficiency. Includes experimental protocols for isotope substitution studies and BCI validation.

View Proposal →

Q-SFA Simulator: Computational Framework

Open-source implementation of the Quantum-Enhanced Spike Frequency Adaptation model. Demonstrates measurable quantum signatures in neural adaptation patterns with applications to brain-computer interface optimization.

Access Code →

Implications & Future Directions

From fundamental science to transformative applications

Neuromorphic Computing

Quantum-enhanced architectures achieving 100x energy efficiency gains. By implementing biological quantum principles in silicon, we can create computing systems that match the brain's remarkable efficiency.

Enhanced BCIs

Quantum-informed decoders that adapt faster and perform better. Understanding quantum effects in neural learning enables next-generation brain-computer interfaces for medical and augmentation applications.

Drug Discovery

Targeting quantum processes in biological systems opens new therapeutic avenues. From enzyme design to neural therapeutics, quantum biology provides novel drug targets and mechanisms.