Quantum evolution: terrestrial fine-tuning of magnetic parameters

TL;DR

This paper explores how quantum effects, specifically the radical pair mechanism, influence biological systems under different magnetic fields, with implications for human health and space colonization.

Contribution

It introduces the concept of terrestrial magnetic field fine-tuning affecting biological processes through quantum mechanisms, expanding understanding of quantum biology in health and space environments.

Findings

Magnetic fields influence stem cell growth and circadian rhythms.

Radical pair mechanism may explain magnetic effects on biological systems.

Quantum effects could be critical for long-term space habitation health.

Abstract

For the first time in history, humankind might conceivably begin to imagine itself as a multi-planetary species. This goal will entail technical innovation in a number of contexts, including that of healthcare. All life on Earth shares an evolution that is coupled to specific environmental conditions, including gravitational and magnetic fields. While the human body may be able to adjust to short term disruption of these fields during space flights, any long term settlement would have to take into consideration the effects that different fields will have on biological systems, within the space of one lifetime, but also across generations. Magnetic fields, for example, influence the growth of stem cells in regenerative processes. Circadian rhythms are profoundly influenced by magnetic fields, a fact that will likely have an effect on mental as well as physical health. Even the brain responds to small perturbations of this field. One possible mechanism for the effects of weak magnetic fields on biological systems has been suggested to be the radical pair mechanism. The radical pair mechanism originated in the context of spin chemistry to describe how magnetic fields influence the yields of chemical reactions. This mechanism was subsequently incorporated into the field of quantum biology. Quantum biology, most generally, is the study of whether non-trivial quantum effects play any meaningful role in biological systems. The radical pair mechanism has been used most consistently in this context to describe the avian compass. Recently, however, a number of studies have investigated other biological contexts in which the radical pair might play a role, from the action of anaesthetics and antidepressants, to microtubule development and the proper function of the circadian clock... (full abstract in the manuscript)