Quantum Effects in Ion Transport: A Thermodynamic Resource Theory Approach

TL;DR

This paper explores how quantum properties like non-Markovianity and coherence influence ion transport in biological membranes, revealing their roles as resources that can enhance or differentiate transport mechanisms.

Contribution

It applies quantum thermodynamic resource theory to biological ion transport, highlighting quantum effects as functional resources in this context.

Findings

Non-Markovianity enhances ion transport efficiency.

Quantum coherence distinguishes ion channels from ion pumps.

Coherence enables transformation between ion pump and channel.

Abstract

In recent years, understanding thermodynamics in the quantum regime has garnered significant attention, driven by advances in nanoscale physics and experimental techniques. In parallel, growing evidence supports the importance of quantum effects in various biological processes, making them increasingly relevant to quantum thermodynamics. In this study, we apply resource theory formulations of thermodynamics to investigate the role of quantum properties in ion transport across cell membranes. Within this framework, quantum properties are treated as resources under generalized thermodynamic constraints in the quantum regime. Specifically, our findings reveal that non-Markovianity, which reflects memory effects in ion transport dynamics, serves as a key quantum resource that enhances the yield and efficiency of the ion transport process. In contrast, quantum coherence, manifested as the superposition of energy states in ion-transport proteins, reduces these metrics but plays a crucial role in distinguishing between ion channels and ion pumps: two distinct types of ion-transport proteins in cell membranes. Finally, we demonstrate that introducing an additional coherent system allows coherence to facilitate the transformation of an ion pump into an ion channel.