Exploring New Biophysical Processes with Quantum Entanglement
Abstract
This proposal aims to investigate the nature of coherent excitations in biological molecules using nonclassical (entangled) light. The goal of this project is to develop new biological and chemical structure-function relationships which result from the interaction of electronic states of organic matter with quantum entangled light. Specifically, project will investigate the quantum effects of endogenous proteins using entangled two photon measurements (ETPA) and theoretical modeling developed in the PI’s research laboratory. These applications will be directed at the possibility of using quantum entangled light to control photochemical reactions in biological systems which are activated by excitation of particular intermediate (virtual) states. In order to develop structure-function relationships of the quantum to biological system interaction, the PI will investigate the photochemical processes originating from the intermediate (virtual) level after ETPA excitation and compare these results with the classical excitation of example biomolecules such as flavoproteins and hemoglobins. A major target of the proposed work is to illustrate the ETPA process in biological cryptochromes. Measurements will be carried out on the quantum coherent effects in the electron transfer process of select cryptochromes. The deliverables of this project will be new structure-function relationships regarding the interaction of quantum light with biological systems as well as the possibility to control photochemical processes in biology thru the interactions of entangled light with their intermediate (virtual) states.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Apr 09, 2018
- Source ID
- FA95501710457
Entities
People
- Theodore Goodson, III
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- United States Air Force
- University of Michigan