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Frederiksen A, Aldag M, Solov’yov IA, Gerhards L. Activation of Cryptochrome 4 from Atlantic Herring. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:262. [PMID: 38666874 PMCID: PMC11048568 DOI: 10.3390/biology13040262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Marine fish migrate long distances up to hundreds or even thousands of kilometers for various reasons that include seasonal dependencies, feeding, or reproduction. The ability to perceive the geomagnetic field, called magnetoreception, is one of the many mechanisms allowing some fish to navigate reliably in the aquatic realm. While it is believed that the photoreceptor protein cryptochrome 4 (Cry4) is the key component for the radical pair-based magnetoreception mechanism in night migratory songbirds, the Cry4 mechanism in fish is still largely unexplored. The present study aims to investigate properties of the fish Cry4 protein in order to understand the potential involvement in a radical pair-based magnetoreception. Specifically, a computationally reconstructed atomistic model of Cry4 from the Atlantic herring (Clupea harengus) was studied employing classical molecular dynamics (MD) and quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) methods to investigate internal electron transfers and the radical pair formation. The QM/MM simulations reveal that electron transfers occur similarly to those found experimentally and computationally in Cry4 from European robin (Erithacus rubecula). It is therefore plausible that the investigated Atlantic herring Cry4 has the physical and chemical properties to form radical pairs that in turn could provide fish with a radical pair-based magnetic field compass sensor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Frederiksen
- Institute of Physics, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Carl-von-Ossietzky Straße 9-11, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany; (A.F.); (M.A.); (I.A.S.)
| | - Mandus Aldag
- Institute of Physics, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Carl-von-Ossietzky Straße 9-11, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany; (A.F.); (M.A.); (I.A.S.)
| | - Ilia A. Solov’yov
- Institute of Physics, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Carl-von-Ossietzky Straße 9-11, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany; (A.F.); (M.A.); (I.A.S.)
- Research Centre for Neurosensory Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Carl-von-Ossietzky Straße 9-11, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany
- Center for Nanoscale Dynamics (CENAD), Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Ammerländer Heerstr. 114-118, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Luca Gerhards
- Institute of Physics, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Carl-von-Ossietzky Straße 9-11, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany; (A.F.); (M.A.); (I.A.S.)
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2
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Hagstrum JT. Avian navigation: the geomagnetic field provides compass cues but not a bicoordinate "map" plus a brief discussion of the alternative infrasound direction-finding hypothesis. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2024; 210:295-313. [PMID: 37071206 DOI: 10.1007/s00359-023-01627-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
The geomagnetic field (GMF) is a worldwide source of compass cues used by animals and humans alike. The inclination of GMF flux lines also provides information on geomagnetic latitude. A long-disputed question, however, is whether horizontal gradients in GMF intensity, in combination with changes in inclination, provide bicoordinate "map" information. Multiple sources contribute to the total GMF, the largest of which is the core field. The ubiquitous crustal field is much less intense, but in both land and marine settings is strong enough at low altitudes (< 700 m; sea level) to mask the core field's weak N-S intensity gradient (~ 3-5 nT/km) over 10 s to 100 s of km. Non-orthogonal geomagnetic gradients, the lack of consistent E-W gradients, and the local masking of core-field intensity gradients by the crustal field, therefore, are grounds for rejection of the bicoordinate geomagnetic "map" hypothesis. In addition, the alternative infrasound direction-finding hypothesis is briefly reviewed. The GMF's diurnal variation has long been suggested as a possible Zeitgeber (timekeeper) for circadian rhythms and could explain the GMF's non-compass role in the avian navigational system. Requirements for detection of this weaker diurnal signal (~ 20-50 nT) might explain the magnetic alignment of resting and grazing animals.
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3
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Pophof B, Henschenmacher B, Kattnig DR, Kuhne J, Vian A, Ziegelberger G. Biological Effects of Electric, Magnetic, and Electromagnetic Fields from 0 to 100 MHz on Fauna and Flora: Workshop Report. HEALTH PHYSICS 2023; 124:39-52. [PMID: 36480584 PMCID: PMC9722389 DOI: 10.1097/hp.0000000000001624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT This report summarizes effects of anthropogenic electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields in the frequency range from 0 to 100 MHz on flora and fauna, as presented at an international workshop held on 5-7 November in 2019 in Munich, Germany. Such fields may originate from overhead powerlines, earth or sea cables, and from wireless charging systems. Animals and plants react differentially to anthropogenic fields; the mechanisms underlying these responses are still researched actively. Radical pairs and magnetite are discussed mechanisms of magnetoreception in insects, birds, and mammals. Moreover, several insects as well as marine species possess specialized electroreceptors, and behavioral reactions to anthropogenic fields have been reported. Plants react to experimental modifications of their magnetic environment by growth changes. Strong adverse effects of anthropogenic fields have not been described, but knowledge gaps were identified; further studies, aiming at the identification of the interaction mechanisms and the ecological consequences, are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanka Pophof
- Competence Centre for Electromagnetic Fields, Department of Effects and Risks of Ionizing and Non-Ionizing Radiation, Federal Office for Radiation Protection, 85764 Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - Bernd Henschenmacher
- Competence Centre for Electromagnetic Fields, Department of Effects and Risks of Ionizing and Non-Ionizing Radiation, Federal Office for Radiation Protection, 85764 Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - Daniel R. Kattnig
- Department of Physics and Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD, United Kingdom
| | - Jens Kuhne
- Competence Centre for Electromagnetic Fields, Department of Effects and Risks of Ionizing and Non-Ionizing Radiation, Federal Office for Radiation Protection, 85764 Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - Alain Vian
- Univ Angers, Institut Agro, INRAE, IRHS, SFR QUASAV, F-49000 Angers, France
| | - Gunde Ziegelberger
- Competence Centre for Electromagnetic Fields, Department of Effects and Risks of Ionizing and Non-Ionizing Radiation, Federal Office for Radiation Protection, 85764 Oberschleißheim, Germany
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4
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Makinistian L, Zastko L, Tvarožná A, Días LE, Belyaev I. Static magnetic fields from earphones: Detailed measurements plus some open questions. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 214:113907. [PMID: 35870506 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.113907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Earphones (EP) are a worldwide, massively adopted product, assumed to be innocuous provided the recommendations on sound doses limits are followed. Nevertheless, sound is not the only physical stimulus that derives from EP use, since they include a built-in permanent magnet from which a static magnetic field (SMF) originates. We performed 2D maps of the SMF at several distances from 6 models of in-ear EP, showing that they produce an exposure that spans from ca. 20 mT on their surface down to tens of μT in the inner ear. The numerous reports of bioeffects elicited by SMF in that range of intensities (applied both acutely and chronically), together with the fact that there is no scientific consensus over the possible mechanisms of interaction with living tissues, suggest that caution could be recommendable. In addition, more research is warranted on the possible effects of the combination of SMF with extremely low frequency and radiofrequency fields, which has so far been scarcely studied. Overall, while several open questions about bioeffects of SMF remain to be addressed by the scientific community, we find sensible to suggest that the use of air-tube earphones is probably the more conservative, cautious choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Makinistian
- Department of Physics, Universidad Nacional de San Luis (UNSL), San Luis, Argentina; Instituto de Física Aplicada (INFAP), Universidad Nacional de San Luis (UNSL)-CONICET, San Luis, Argentina.
| | - L Zastko
- Department of Radiobiology, Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center, University Science Park for Biomedicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia; Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Health Care, Catholic University in Ružomberok, Ružomberok, Slovakia
| | - A Tvarožná
- Department of Radiobiology, Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center, University Science Park for Biomedicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - L E Días
- Department of Physics, Universidad Nacional de San Luis (UNSL), San Luis, Argentina
| | - I Belyaev
- Department of Radiobiology, Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center, University Science Park for Biomedicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
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5
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Tian L, Luo Y, Zhan A, Ren J, Qin H, Pan Y. Hypomagnetic Field Induces the Production of Reactive Oxygen Species and Cognitive Deficits in Mice Hippocampus. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073622. [PMID: 35408982 PMCID: PMC8998670 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have found that hypomagnetic field (HMF) exposure impairs cognition behaviors in animals; however, the underlying neural mechanisms of cognitive dysfunction are unclear. The hippocampus plays important roles in magnetoreception, memory, and spatial navigation in mammals. Therefore, the hippocampus may be the key region in the brain to reveal its neural mechanisms. We recently reported that long-term HMF exposure impairs adult hippocampal neurogenesis and cognition through reducing endogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in adult neural stem cells that are confined in the subgranular zone (SGZ) of the hippocampus. In addition to adult neural stem cells, the redox state of other cells in the hippocampus is also an important factor affecting the functions of the hippocampus. However, it is unclear whether and how long-term HMF exposure affects ROS levels in the entire hippocampus (i.e., the dentate gyrus (DG) and ammonia horn (CA) regions). Here, we demonstrate that male C57BL/6J mice exposed to 8-week HMF exhibit cognitive impairments. We then found that the ROS levels of the hippocampus were significantly higher in these HMF-exposed mice than in the geomagnetic field (GMF) group. PCR array analysis revealed that the elevated ROS levels were due to HMF-regulating genes that maintain the redox balance in vivo, such as Nox4, Gpx3. Since high levels of ROS may cause hippocampal oxidative stress, we suggest that this is another reason why HMF exposure induces cognitive impairment, besides the hippocampal neurogenesis impairments. Our study further demonstrates that GMF plays an important role in maintaining hippocampal function by regulating the appropriate endogenous ROS levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanxiang Tian
- Biogeomagnetism Group, Key Laboratory of Earth and Planetary Physics, Institute of Geology and Geophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China; (Y.L.); (A.Z.); (J.R.); (Y.P.)
- Innovation Academy for Earth Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China;
- The Paleomagnetism and Geochronology Laboratory, Institute of Geology and Geophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China
- Correspondence:
| | - Yukai Luo
- Biogeomagnetism Group, Key Laboratory of Earth and Planetary Physics, Institute of Geology and Geophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China; (Y.L.); (A.Z.); (J.R.); (Y.P.)
- Innovation Academy for Earth Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China;
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Aisheng Zhan
- Biogeomagnetism Group, Key Laboratory of Earth and Planetary Physics, Institute of Geology and Geophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China; (Y.L.); (A.Z.); (J.R.); (Y.P.)
- Innovation Academy for Earth Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China;
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jie Ren
- Biogeomagnetism Group, Key Laboratory of Earth and Planetary Physics, Institute of Geology and Geophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China; (Y.L.); (A.Z.); (J.R.); (Y.P.)
- Innovation Academy for Earth Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China;
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Huafeng Qin
- Innovation Academy for Earth Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China;
- The Paleomagnetism and Geochronology Laboratory, Institute of Geology and Geophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Yongxin Pan
- Biogeomagnetism Group, Key Laboratory of Earth and Planetary Physics, Institute of Geology and Geophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China; (Y.L.); (A.Z.); (J.R.); (Y.P.)
- Innovation Academy for Earth Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China;
- The Paleomagnetism and Geochronology Laboratory, Institute of Geology and Geophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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6
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Quantum magnetic imaging of iron organelles within the pigeon cochlea. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2112749118. [PMID: 34782471 PMCID: PMC8617482 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2112749118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability of pigeons to sense geomagnetic fields has been conclusively established despite a notable lack of determination of the underlying biophysical mechanisms. Quasi-spherical iron organelles previously termed "cuticulosomes" in the cochlea of pigeons have potential relevance to magnetoreception due to their location and iron composition; however, data regarding the magnetic susceptibility of these structures are currently limited. Here quantum magnetic imaging techniques are applied to characterize the magnetic properties of individual iron cuticulosomes in situ. The stray magnetic fields emanating from cuticulosomes are mapped and compared to a detailed analytical model to provide an estimate of the magnetic susceptibility of the individual particles. The images reveal the presence of superparamagnetic and ferrimagnetic domains within individual cuticulosomes and magnetic susceptibilities within the range 0.029 to 0.22. These results provide insights into the elusive physiological roles of cuticulosomes. The susceptibilities measured are not consistent with a torque-based model of magnetoreception, placing iron storage and stereocilia stabilization as the two leading putative cuticulosome functions. This work establishes quantum magnetic imaging as an important tool to complement the existing array of techniques used to screen for potential magnetic particle-based magnetoreceptor candidates.
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7
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Zastko L, Makinistian L, Tvarožná A, Ferreyra FL, Belyaev I. Mapping of static magnetic fields near the surface of mobile phones. Sci Rep 2021; 11:19002. [PMID: 34561477 PMCID: PMC8463716 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-98083-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Whether the use of mobile phones (MP) represents a health hazard is still under debate. As part of the attempts to resolve this uncertainty, there has been an extensive characterization of the electromagnetic fields MP emit and receive. While the radiofrequencies (RF) have been studied exhaustively, the static magnetic fields (SMF) have received much less attention, regardless of the fact there is a wealth of evidence demonstrating their biological effects. We performed 2D maps of the SMF at several distances from the screen of 5 MP (models between 2013 and 2018) using a tri-axis magnetometer. We built a mathematical model to fit our measurements, extrapolated them down to the phones' screen, and calculated the SMF on the skin of a 3D head model, showing that exposure is in the µT to mT range. Our literature survey prompts the need of further research not only on the biological effects of SMF and their gradients, but also on their combination with extremely low frequency (ELF) and RF fields. The study of combined fields (SMF, ELF, and RF) as similar as possible to the ones that occur in reality should provide a more sensible assessment of potential risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Zastko
- Department of Radiobiology, Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center, University Science Park for Biomedicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - L Makinistian
- Department of Physics, Universidad Nacional de San Luis (UNSL), Ejército de los Andes 950, CP5700, San Luis, San Luis, Argentina. .,Instituto de Física Aplicada (INFAP), Universidad Nacional de San Luis (UNSL-CONICET), San Luis, Argentina.
| | - A Tvarožná
- Department of Radiobiology, Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center, University Science Park for Biomedicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - F L Ferreyra
- Department of Physics, Universidad Nacional de San Luis (UNSL), Ejército de los Andes 950, CP5700, San Luis, San Luis, Argentina
| | - I Belyaev
- Department of Radiobiology, Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center, University Science Park for Biomedicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
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8
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Hunt RD, Ashbaugh RC, Reimers M, Udpa L, Saldana De Jimenez G, Moore M, Gilad AA, Pelled G. Swimming direction of the glass catfish is responsive to magnetic stimulation. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0248141. [PMID: 33667278 PMCID: PMC7935302 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0248141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Several marine species have developed a magnetic perception that is essential for navigation and detection of prey and predators. One of these species is the transparent glass catfish that contains an ampullary organ dedicated to sense magnetic fields. Here we examine the behavior of the glass catfish in response to static magnetic fields which will provide valuable insight on function of this magnetic response. By utilizing state of the art animal tracking software and artificial intelligence approaches, we quantified the effects of magnetic fields on the swimming direction of glass catfish. The results demonstrate that glass catfish placed in a radial arm maze, consistently swim away from magnetic fields over 20 μT and show adaptability to changing magnetic field direction and location.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan D. Hunt
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
- Neuroengineering Division, Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Ryan C. Ashbaugh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
- Neuroengineering Division, Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Mark Reimers
- Neuroengineering Division, Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Lalita Udpa
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Gabriela Saldana De Jimenez
- Neuroengineering Division, Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Michael Moore
- Neuroengineering Division, Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Assaf A. Gilad
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Radiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
- Synthetic Biology Division, Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Galit Pelled
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
- Neuroengineering Division, Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Radiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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9
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Brain-to-brain communication: the possible role of brain electromagnetic fields (As a Potential Hypothesis). Heliyon 2021; 7:e06363. [PMID: 33732922 PMCID: PMC7937662 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e06363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Up now, the communication between brains of different humans or animals has been confirmed and confined by the sensory medium and motor facilities of body. Recently, direct brain-to-brain communication (DBBC) outside the conventional five senses has been verified between animals and humans. Nevertheless, no empirical studies or serious discussion have been performed to elucidate the mechanism behind this process. The validation of DBBC has been documented via recording similar pattern of action potentials occurring in the brain cortex of two animals. With regard to action potentials in brain neurons, the magnetic field resulting from the action potentials created in neurons is one of the tools where the brain of one animal can affect the brain of another. It has been shown that different animals, even humans, have the power to understand the magnetic field. Cryptochrome, which exists in the retina and in different regions of the brain, has been confirmed to be able to perceive magnetic fields and convert magnetic fields to action potentials. Recently, iron particles (Fe3O4) believed to be functioning as magnets have been found in various parts of the brain, and are postulated as magnetic field receptors. Newly developed supersensitive magnetic sensors made of iron magnets that can sense the brain's magnetic field have suggested the idea that these Fe3O4 particles or magnets may be capable of perceiving the brain's extremely weak magnetic field. The present study suggests that it is possible the extremely week magnetic field in one animal's brain to transmit vital and accurate information to another animal's brain.
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10
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Smith MA, Waugh DA, McBurney DL, George JC, Suydam RS, Thewissen JGM, Crish SD. A comparative analysis of cone photoreceptor morphology in bowhead and beluga whales. J Comp Neurol 2020; 529:2376-2390. [PMID: 33377221 DOI: 10.1002/cne.25101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The cetacean visual system is a product of selection pressures favoring underwater vision, yet relatively little is known about it across taxa. Previous studies report several mutations in the opsin genetic sequence in cetaceans, suggesting the evolutionary complete or partial loss of retinal cone photoreceptor function in mysticete and odontocete lineages, respectively. Despite this, limited anatomical evidence suggests cone structures are partially maintained but with absent outer and inner segments in the bowhead retina. The functional consequence and anatomical distributions associated with these unique cone morphologies remain unclear. The current study further investigates the morphology and distribution of cone photoreceptors in the bowhead whale and beluga retina and evaluates the potential functional capacity of these cells' alternative to photoreception. Refined histological and advanced microscopic techniques revealed two additional cone morphologies in the bowhead and beluga retina that have not been previously described. Two proteins involved in magnetosensation were present in these cone structures suggesting the possibility for an alternative functional role in responding to changes in geomagnetic fields. These findings highlight a revised understanding of the unique evolution of cone and gross retinal anatomy in cetaceans, and provide prefatory evidence of potential functional reassignment of these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew A Smith
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, Ohio, USA.,Rebecca D. Considine Research Institute, Akron Children's Hospital, Akron, Ohio, USA
| | - David A Waugh
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, Ohio, USA
| | - Denise L McBurney
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, Ohio, USA
| | - John C George
- Department of Wildlife Management, North Slope Borough, Utqiagvik, Alaska, USA
| | - Robert S Suydam
- Department of Wildlife Management, North Slope Borough, Utqiagvik, Alaska, USA
| | - Johannes G M Thewissen
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, Ohio, USA
| | - Samuel D Crish
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, Ohio, USA
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11
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Han X, Xu H, Che L, Sha D, Huang C, Meng T, Song D. Application of Inorganic Nanocomposite Hydrogels in Bone Tissue Engineering. iScience 2020; 23:101845. [PMID: 33305193 PMCID: PMC7711279 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2020.101845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone defects caused by trauma and surgery are common clinical problems encountered by orthopedic surgeons. Thus, a hard-textured, natural-like biomaterial that enables encapsulated cells to obtain the much-needed biophysical stimulation and produce functional bone tissue is needed. Incorporating nanomaterials into cell-laden hydrogels is a straightforward tactic for producing tissue engineering structures that integrate perfectly with the body and for tailoring the material characteristics of hydrogels without hindering nutrient exchange with the surroundings. In this review, recent developments in inorganic nanocomposite hydrogels for bone tissue engineering that are of vital importance but have not yet been comprehensively reviewed are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaying Han
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 650 New Songjiang Road, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Houshi Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Lingbin Che
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 650 New Songjiang Road, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Dongyong Sha
- Engineering Research Center for Biomedical Materials of Ministry of Education, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, P.R. China
| | - Chaojun Huang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Tong Meng
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 650 New Songjiang Road, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Dianwen Song
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 650 New Songjiang Road, Shanghai 200080, China
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12
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Malkemper EP, Nimpf S, Nordmann GC, Keays DA. Neuronal circuits and the magnetic sense: central questions. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 223:223/21/jeb232371. [PMID: 33168544 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.232371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Magnetoreception is the ability to sense the Earth's magnetic field, which is used for orientation and navigation. Behavioural experiments have shown that it is employed by many species across all vertebrate classes; however, our understanding of how magnetic information is processed and integrated within the central nervous system is limited. In this Commentary, we review the progress in birds and rodents, highlighting the role of the vestibular and trigeminal systems as well as that of the hippocampus. We reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of the methodologies currently at our disposal, the utility of emerging technologies and identify questions that we feel are critical for the advancement of the field. We expect that magnetic circuits are likely to share anatomical motifs with other senses, which culminates in the formation of spatial maps in telencephalic areas of the brain. Specifically, we predict the existence of spatial cells that encode defined components of the Earth's magnetic field.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Pascal Malkemper
- Max Planck Research Group Neurobiology of Magnetoreception, Center of Advanced European Studies and Research (caesar), Ludwig-Erhard-Allee 2, Bonn 53175, Germany
| | - Simon Nimpf
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP), Vienna Biocenter (VBC), Campus Vienna Biocenter 1, Vienna 1030, Austria
| | - Gregory C Nordmann
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP), Vienna Biocenter (VBC), Campus Vienna Biocenter 1, Vienna 1030, Austria
| | - David A Keays
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP), Vienna Biocenter (VBC), Campus Vienna Biocenter 1, Vienna 1030, Austria .,Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia.,Division of Neurobiology, Department Biology II, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Planegg-Martinsried 82152, Germany
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13
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Pail M, Landler L, Gollmann G. Orientation and navigation in Bufo bufo: a quest for repeatability of arena experiments. HERPETOZOA 2020; 33:139-147. [PMID: 35444377 PMCID: PMC7612639 DOI: 10.3897/herpetozoa.33.e52854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Research on navigation in animals is hampered by conflicting results and failed replications. In order to assess the generality of previous results, male Bufo bufo were collected during their breeding migration and translocated to two testing sites, 2.4 and 2.9 km away, respectively, from their breeding pond in the north of Vienna (Austria). There each toad was tested twice for orientation responses in a circular arena, on the night of collection and four days later. On the first test day, the toads showed significant axial orientation along their individual former migration direction. On the second test day, no significant homeward orientation was detected. Both results accord with findings of previous experiments with toads from another population. We analysed the potential influence of environmental factors (temperature, cloud cover and lunar cycle) on toad orientations using a MANOVA approach. Although cloud cover and lunar cycle had small effects on the second test day, they could not explain the absence of homeward orientation. The absence of homing responses in these tests may be either caused by the absence of navigational capabilities of toads beyond their home ranges, or by inadequacies of the applied method. To resolve this question, tracking of freely moving toads should have greater potential than the use of arena experiments.
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14
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Albert L, Deschamps F, Jolivet A, Olivier F, Chauvaud L, Chauvaud S. A current synthesis on the effects of electric and magnetic fields emitted by submarine power cables on invertebrates. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 159:104958. [PMID: 32662447 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2020.104958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The goal of clean renewable energy production has promoted the large-scale deployment of marine renewable energy devices, and their associated submarine cable network. Power cables produce both electric and magnetic fields that raise environmental concerns as many marine organisms have magneto and electroreception abilities used for vital purposes. Magnetic and electric fields' intensities decrease with distance away from the cable. Accordingly, the benthic and the sedimentary compartments are exposed to the highest field values. Although marine invertebrate species are the major fauna of these potentially exposed areas, they have so far received little attention. We provide extensive background knowledge on natural and anthropogenic marine sources of magnetic and electric fields. We then compile evidence for magneto- and electro-sensitivity in marine invertebrates and further highlight what is currently known about their interactions with artificial sources of magnetic and electric fields. Finally we discuss the main gaps and future challenges that require further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luana Albert
- TBM Environnement, Porte Océane Bloc 03, 2 rue de Suède, 56400, Auray, France; Univ. Brest, CNRS, IRD, Ifremer, LEMAR, rue Dumont D'Urville, 29280, Plouzané, France.
| | - François Deschamps
- RTE, Immeuble Window, 7C place du Dôme, 92073, Paris La Défense Cedex, France.
| | - Aurélie Jolivet
- TBM Environnement, Porte Océane Bloc 03, 2 rue de Suède, 56400, Auray, France.
| | - Frédéric Olivier
- Biologie des Organismes et écosystèmes Aquatiques (BOREA, UMR 7208), MNHN/SU/UNICAEN/UA/CNRS/IRD, 61 Rue Buffon CP53, 75005, Paris, France; Station Marine de Concarneau, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Place de la Croix, BP 225, 29182, Concarneau Cedex, France.
| | - Laurent Chauvaud
- Univ. Brest, CNRS, IRD, Ifremer, LEMAR, rue Dumont D'Urville, 29280, Plouzané, France.
| | - Sylvain Chauvaud
- TBM Environnement, Porte Océane Bloc 03, 2 rue de Suède, 56400, Auray, France.
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15
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Transduction of the Geomagnetic Field as Evidenced from alpha-Band Activity in the Human Brain. eNeuro 2019; 6:ENEURO.0483-18.2019. [PMID: 31028046 PMCID: PMC6494972 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0483-18.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Magnetoreception, the perception of the geomagnetic field, is a sensory modality well-established across all major groups of vertebrates and some invertebrates, but its presence in humans has been tested rarely, yielding inconclusive results. We report here a strong, specific human brain response to ecologically-relevant rotations of Earth-strength magnetic fields. Following geomagnetic stimulation, a drop in amplitude of electroencephalography (EEG) alpha-oscillations (8–13 Hz) occurred in a repeatable manner. Termed alpha-event-related desynchronization (alpha-ERD), such a response has been associated previously with sensory and cognitive processing of external stimuli including vision, auditory and somatosensory cues. Alpha-ERD in response to the geomagnetic field was triggered only by horizontal rotations when the static vertical magnetic field was directed downwards, as it is in the Northern Hemisphere; no brain responses were elicited by the same horizontal rotations when the static vertical component was directed upwards. This implicates a biological response tuned to the ecology of the local human population, rather than a generic physical effect. Biophysical tests showed that the neural response was sensitive to static components of the magnetic field. This rules out all forms of electrical induction (including artifacts from the electrodes) which are determined solely on dynamic components of the field. The neural response was also sensitive to the polarity of the magnetic field. This rules out free-radical “quantum compass” mechanisms like the cryptochrome hypothesis, which can detect only axial alignment. Ferromagnetism remains a viable biophysical mechanism for sensory transduction and provides a basis to start the behavioral exploration of human magnetoreception.
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16
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Esquivel DMS, Wajnberg E, de Menezes E Souza LC, Acosta-Avalos D, Pinho MB, Harada AY. Magnetic material diversity in Brazilian ants: displacement behaviour and environmental adaptability. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL: EBJ 2019; 48:161-171. [PMID: 30607446 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-018-1343-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
How geomagnetic field information is collected and processed by insects for orientation and navigation remains elusive. In social insects, magnetic particles are well accepted as magnetic sensors. Ants have the ability to home and hunt, and some migratory and nomadic species can migrate or move over long distances for which magnetoreception is an important mechanism. It was shown previously that ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) spectral parameters of one migratory and one nomadic ant could be distinguished from Brazilian Solenopsis ant species and that these parameters correlate to the local geomagnetic field. The present work focuses on genera engaged in long-distance group raids and emigration collected mainly in the Amazon rainforest. A diversity of specimens of the genus was individually measured by FMR. Cluster analysis of the occurrence of the FMR Low Field component, associated with large or aggregated nanoparticles, and their spectral angular dependence resulted in a phylogenetic dendrogram of the genera of ants, principally from the North Brazilian region. The magnetic material characteristics of ants of the Invertebrate Collection from the Museum Paraense Emilio Goeldi were tested looking for their relation to ant genera and the local geomagnetic field. The observed spectral differences of the magnetic particles suggest that they are related to their capacity for adaptation to their environment and/or to displacement behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darci M S Esquivel
- Centro Brasileiro de Pesquisas Físicas, Rua Xavier Sigaud 150, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 22290-180, Brazil
| | - Eliane Wajnberg
- Centro Brasileiro de Pesquisas Físicas, Rua Xavier Sigaud 150, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 22290-180, Brazil.
| | | | - Daniel Acosta-Avalos
- Centro Brasileiro de Pesquisas Físicas, Rua Xavier Sigaud 150, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 22290-180, Brazil
| | - Márcia Barbosa Pinho
- Centro Brasileiro de Pesquisas Físicas, Rua Xavier Sigaud 150, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 22290-180, Brazil
| | - Ana Yoshi Harada
- Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi, Av. Governador Magalhães Barata 376, Belém, PA, 66040-170, Brazil
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17
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Malkemper EP, Kagerbauer D, Ushakova L, Nimpf S, Pichler P, Treiber CD, de Jonge M, Shaw J, Keays DA. No evidence for a magnetite-based magnetoreceptor in the lagena of pigeons. Curr Biol 2019; 29:R14-R15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2018.11.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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18
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Shaw JA, Boyd A, House M, Cowin G, Baer B. Multi-modal imaging and analysis in the search for iron-based magnetoreceptors in the honeybee Apis mellifera. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2018; 5:181163. [PMID: 30839746 PMCID: PMC6170574 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.181163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The honeybee Apis mellifera is one of many animal species for which empirical evidence of a magnetic sense has been provided. The underlying mechanisms postulated for magnetoreception in bees are varied, but most point towards the abdomen as the most likely anatomical region for its location, partly owing to the large accumulation of iron in trophocyte cells that comprise the honeybee fat body. Using a multi-modal imaging and analysis approach, we have investigated iron in the honeybee, with a particular focus on the abdomen and the utility of such techniques as applied to magnetoreception. Abdominal iron is shown to accumulate rapidly, reaching near maximum levels only 5 days after emerging from the comb and is associated with the accumulation of iron within the fat body. While fat body iron could be visualized, no regions of interest, other than perhaps the fat body itself, were identified as potential sites for magnetoreceptive cells. If an iron-based magnetoreceptor exists within the honeybee abdomen the large accumulation of iron in the fat body is likely to impede its discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy A. Shaw
- Centre for Microscopy, Characterisation and Analysis, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Alastair Boyd
- Centre for Microscopy, Characterisation and Analysis, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Michael House
- School of Physics, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Gary Cowin
- Centre for Advanced Imaging, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Boris Baer
- Centre for Integrative Bee Research, Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
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19
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Malkemper EP, Mason MJ, Kagerbauer D, Nimpf S, Keays DA. Ectopic otoconial formation in the lagena of the pigeon inner ear. Biol Open 2018; 7:bio034462. [PMID: 29997242 PMCID: PMC6124575 DOI: 10.1242/bio.034462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The vertebrate inner ear contains vestibular receptors with dense crystals of calcium carbonate, the otoconia. The production and maintenance of otoconia is a delicate process, the perturbation of which can lead to severe vestibular dysfunction in humans. The details of these processes are not well understood. Here, we report the discovery of a new otoconial mass in the lagena of adult pigeons that was present in more than 70% of birds. Based on histological, tomographic and elemental analyses, we conclude that the structure likely represents an ectopically-formed otoconial assembly. Given its frequent natural occurrence, we suggest that the pigeon lagena is a valuable model system for investigating misregulated otoconial formation.This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Pascal Malkemper
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP), Vienna Biocenter (VBC), Campus Vienna Biocenter 1, Vienna 1030, Austria
| | - Matthew J Mason
- University of Cambridge, Department of Physiology, Development & Neuroscience, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | | | - Simon Nimpf
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP), Vienna Biocenter (VBC), Campus Vienna Biocenter 1, Vienna 1030, Austria
| | - David A Keays
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP), Vienna Biocenter (VBC), Campus Vienna Biocenter 1, Vienna 1030, Austria
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20
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Long-distance navigation and magnetoreception in migratory animals. Nature 2018; 558:50-59. [PMID: 29875486 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-018-0176-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 230] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2017] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
For centuries, humans have been fascinated by how migratory animals find their way over thousands of kilometres. Here, I review the mechanisms used in animal orientation and navigation with a particular focus on long-distance migrants and magnetoreception. I contend that any long-distance navigational task consists of three phases and that no single cue or mechanism will enable animals to navigate with pinpoint accuracy over thousands of kilometres. Multiscale and multisensory cue integration in the brain is needed. I conclude by raising twenty important mechanistic questions related to long-distance animal navigation that should be solved over the next twenty years.
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21
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Hou G, Wang D, Xiao K, Zhang H, Zheng S, Li P, Tian Y, Jiang L. Magnetic Gated Biomimetic Artificial Nanochannels for Controllable Ion Transportation Inspired by Homing Pigeon. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2018; 14:e1703369. [PMID: 29399965 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201703369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Revised: 12/17/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The homing pigeon-inspired artificial nanochannel can be modulated by moderate magnetic field in a fast and noncontacting way. The ionic current, as well as rectifying ability and conductance is controlled by the magnetic field reversibly through elastic deformation of the nanochannel. Different gating effects are obtained at the two sides of the asymmetrically conical nanochannel due to the different response models. The magnetic gated nanochannel system also exhibits an excellent stability and a quick response in a noncontacting way, which may be promising in electronic devices related to biological or healthcare applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanglei Hou
- Key laboratory of Bio-Inspired Smart Interfacial Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, P. R. China
| | - Dianyu Wang
- College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, P. R. China
| | - Kai Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Bio-inspired Materials and Interfacial Science, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
| | - Huacheng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Bio-inspired Materials and Interfacial Science, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
| | - Shuang Zheng
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Science (BNLMS), Key Laboratory of Organic Solids, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
| | - Pei Li
- Key laboratory of Bio-Inspired Smart Interfacial Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, P. R. China
| | - Ye Tian
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Science (BNLMS), Key Laboratory of Organic Solids, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
| | - Lei Jiang
- Key laboratory of Bio-Inspired Smart Interfacial Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Bio-inspired Materials and Interfacial Science, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
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22
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Goychuk I. Sensing Magnetic Fields with Magnetosensitive Ion Channels. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2018; 18:E728. [PMID: 29495645 PMCID: PMC5877195 DOI: 10.3390/s18030728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Revised: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
[-15]Magnetic nanoparticles are met across many biological species ranging from magnetosensitive bacteria, fishes, bees, bats, rats, birds, to humans. They can be both of biogenetic origin and due to environmental contamination, being either in paramagnetic or ferromagnetic state. The energy of such naturally occurring single-domain magnetic nanoparticles can reach up to 10-20 room k B T in the magnetic field of the Earth, which naturally led to supposition that they can serve as sensory elements in various animals. This work explores within a stochastic modeling framework a fascinating hypothesis of magnetosensitive ion channels with magnetic nanoparticles serving as sensory elements, especially, how realistic it is given a highly dissipative viscoelastic interior of living cells and typical sizes of nanoparticles possibly involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Goychuk
- Institute of Physics and Astronomy, University of Potsdam, Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 24/25, 14476 Potsdam-Golm, Germany.
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23
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Myklatun A, Lauri A, Eder SHK, Cappetta M, Shcherbakov D, Wurst W, Winklhofer M, Westmeyer GG. Zebrafish and medaka offer insights into the neurobehavioral correlates of vertebrate magnetoreception. Nat Commun 2018; 9:802. [PMID: 29476093 PMCID: PMC5824813 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-03090-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2017] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
An impediment to a mechanistic understanding of how some species sense the geomagnetic field ("magnetoreception") is the lack of vertebrate genetic models that exhibit well-characterized magnetoreceptive behavior and are amenable to whole-brain analysis. We investigated the genetic model organisms zebrafish and medaka, whose young stages are transparent and optically accessible. In an unfamiliar environment, adult fish orient according to the directional change of a magnetic field even in darkness. To enable experiments also in juveniles, we applied slowly oscillating magnetic fields, aimed at generating conflicting sensory inputs during exploratory behavior. Medaka (but not zebrafish) increase their locomotor activity in this assay. Complementary brain activity mapping reveals neuronal activation in the lateral hindbrain during magnetic stimulation. These comparative data support magnetoreception in teleosts, provide evidence for a light-independent mechanism, and demonstrate the usefulness of zebrafish and medaka as genetic vertebrate models for studying the biophysical and neuronal mechanisms underlying magnetoreception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahne Myklatun
- Institute of Biological and Medical Imaging, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute of Developmental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Strasse 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Antonella Lauri
- Institute of Biological and Medical Imaging, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute of Developmental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Strasse 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Stephan H K Eder
- Department of Earth- and Environmental Sciences Section Geophysics, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Theresienstrasse 41, 80333, Munich, Germany
| | - Michele Cappetta
- Institute of Biological and Medical Imaging, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute of Developmental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Strasse 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Denis Shcherbakov
- Institute of Zoology 220, University of Hohenheim, 70593, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Wurst
- Institute of Developmental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Michael Winklhofer
- Institute for Biology and Environmental Sciences IBU, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Carl-von-Ossietzky-Strasse 9-11, 26129, Oldenburg, Germany
- Research Center Neurosensory Science, Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, Oldenburg, D-26111, Germany
| | - Gil G Westmeyer
- Institute of Biological and Medical Imaging, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany.
- Institute of Developmental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany.
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Strasse 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.
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24
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Lambinet V, Hayden ME, Reigl K, Gomis S, Gries G. Linking magnetite in the abdomen of honey bees to a magnetoreceptive function. Proc Biol Sci 2018; 284:rspb.2016.2873. [PMID: 28330921 PMCID: PMC5378088 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2016.2873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2016] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies of magnetoreception in honey bees, Apis mellifera, focused on the identification of magnetic material, its formation, the location of the receptor and potential underlying sensory mechanisms, but never directly linked magnetic material to a magnetoreceptive function. In our study, we demonstrate that ferromagnetic material consistent with magnetite plays an integral role in the bees' magnetoreceptor. Subjecting lyophilized and pelletized bee tagmata to analyses by a superconducting quantum interference device generated a distinct hysteresis loop for the abdomen but not for the thorax or the head of bees, indicating the presence of ferromagnetic material in the bee abdomen. Magnetic remanence of abdomen pellets produced from bees that were, or were not, exposed to the 2.2-kOe field of a magnet while alive differed, indicating that magnet exposure altered the magnetization of this magnetite in live bees. In behavioural two-choice field experiments, bees briefly exposed to the same magnet, but not sham-treated control bees, failed to sense a custom-generated magnetic anomaly, indicating that magnet exposure had rendered the bees' magnetoreceptor dysfunctional. Our data support the conclusion that honey bees possess a magnetite-based magnetoreceptor located in the abdomen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Lambinet
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Michael E Hayden
- Department of Physics, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Katharina Reigl
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Surath Gomis
- Department of Physics, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Gerhard Gries
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
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25
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Hiscock HG, Mouritsen H, Manolopoulos DE, Hore PJ. Disruption of Magnetic Compass Orientation in Migratory Birds by Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields. Biophys J 2017; 113:1475-1484. [PMID: 28978441 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2017.07.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Revised: 07/19/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The radical-pair mechanism has been put forward as the basis of the magnetic compass sense of migratory birds. Some of the strongest supporting evidence has come from behavioral experiments in which birds exposed to weak time-dependent magnetic fields lose their ability to orient in the geomagnetic field. However, conflicting results and skepticism about the requirement for abnormally long quantum coherence lifetimes have cast a shroud of uncertainty over these potentially pivotal studies. Using a recently developed computational approach, we explore the effects of various radiofrequency magnetic fields on biologically plausible radicals within the theoretical framework of radical-pair magnetoreception. We conclude that the current model of radical-pair magnetoreception is unable to explain the findings of the reported behavioral experiments. Assuming that an unknown mechanism amplifies the predicted effects, we suggest experimental conditions that have the potential to distinguish convincingly between the two distinct families of radical pairs currently postulated as magnetic compass sensors. We end by making recommendations for experimental protocols that we hope will increase the chance that future experiments can be independently replicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamish G Hiscock
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Henrik Mouritsen
- Institut für Biologie und Umweltwissenschaften, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany; Research Centre for Neurosensory Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - David E Manolopoulos
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - P J Hore
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, Oxford, United Kingdom.
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26
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Abstract
Evolution has equipped life on our planet with an array of extraordinary senses, but perhaps the least understood is magnetoreception. Despite compelling behavioral evidence that this sense exists, the cells, molecules, and mechanisms that mediate sensory transduction remain unknown. So how could animals detect magnetic fields? We introduce and discuss 3 concepts that attempt to address this question: (1) a mechanically sensitive magnetite-based magnetoreceptor, (2) a light-sensitive chemical-based mechanism, and (3) electromagnetic induction within accessory structures. In discussing the merits and issues with each of these ideas, we draw on existing precepts in sensory biology. We argue that solving this scientific mystery will require the development of new genetic tools in magnetosensitive species, coupled with an interdisciplinary approach that bridges physics, behavior, anatomy, physiology, molecular biology, and genetics.
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27
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Krichen S, Liu L, Sharma P. Biological cell as a soft magnetoelectric material: Elucidating the physical mechanisms underpinning the detection of magnetic fields by animals. Phys Rev E 2017; 96:042404. [PMID: 29347612 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.96.042404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Sharks, birds, bats, turtles, and many other animals can detect magnetic fields. Aside from using this remarkable ability to exploit the terrestrial magnetic field map to sense direction, a subset is also able to implement a version of the so-called geophysical positioning system. How do these animals detect magnetic fields? The answer to this rather deceptively simple question has proven to be quite elusive. The currently prevalent theories, while providing interesting insights, fall short of explaining several aspects of magnetoreception. For example, minute magnetic particles have been detected in magnetically sensitive animals. However, how is the detected magnetic field converted into electrical signals given any lack of experimental evidence for relevant electroreceptors? In principle, a magnetoelectric material is capable of converting magnetic signals into electricity (and vice versa). This property, however, is rare and restricted to a rather small set of exotic hard crystalline materials. Indeed, such elements have never been detected in the animals studied so far. In this work we quantitatively outline the conditions under which a biological cell may detect a magnetic field and convert it into electrical signals detectable by biological cells. Specifically, we prove the existence of an overlooked strain-mediated mechanism and show that most biological cells can act as nontrivial magnetoelectric materials provided that the magnetic permeability constant is only slightly more than that of a vacuum. The enhanced magnetic permeability is easily achieved by small amounts of magnetic particles that have been experimentally detected in magnetosensitive animals. Our proposed mechanism appears to explain most of the experimental observations related to the physical basis of magnetoreception.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Krichen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas 77204, USA
| | - L Liu
- Department of Mathematics and Department of Mechanical Aerospace Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
| | - P Sharma
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas 77204, USA.,Department of Physics, University of Houston, Houston, Texas 77204, USA
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Lambinet V, Hayden ME, Reid C, Gries G. Honey bees possess a polarity-sensitive magnetoreceptor. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2017; 203:1029-1036. [PMID: 28916947 DOI: 10.1007/s00359-017-1214-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Revised: 08/27/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Honey bees, Apis mellifera, exploit the geomagnetic field for orientation during foraging and for alignment of their combs within hives. We tested the hypothesis that honey bees sense the polarity of magnetic fields. We created an engineered magnetic anomaly in which the magnetic field generally either converged toward a sugar reward in a watch glass, or away from it. After bees in behavioral field studies had learned to associate this anomaly with a sugar water reward, we subjected them to two experiments performed in random order. In both experiments, we presented bees with two identical sugar water rewards, one of which was randomly marked by a magnetic field anomaly. During the control experiment, the polarity of the magnetic field anomaly was maintained the same as it was during the training session. During the treatment experiment, it was reversed. We predicted that bees would not respond to the altered anomaly if they were sensitive to the polarity of the magnetic field. Our findings that bees continued to respond to the magnetic anomaly when its polarity was in its unaltered state, but did not respond to it when its polarity was reversed, support the hypothesis that honey bees possess a polarity-sensitive magnetoreceptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Lambinet
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Michael E Hayden
- Department of Physics, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada.
| | - Chloe Reid
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Gerhard Gries
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada.
- Department of Physics, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada.
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The sensitivity of a radical pair compass magnetoreceptor can be significantly amplified by radical scavengers. Sci Rep 2017; 7:11640. [PMID: 28912470 PMCID: PMC5599710 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-09914-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Birds have a remarkable ability to obtain navigational information from the Earth's magnetic field. The primary detection mechanism of this compass sense is uncertain but appears to involve the quantum spin dynamics of radical pairs formed transiently in cryptochrome proteins. We propose here a new version of the current model in which spin-selective recombination of the radical pair is not essential. One of the two radicals is imagined to react with a paramagnetic scavenger via spin-selective electron transfer. By means of simulations of the spin dynamics of cryptochrome-inspired radical pairs, we show that the new scheme offers two clear and important benefits. The sensitivity to a 50 μT magnetic field is greatly enhanced and, unlike the current model, the radicals can be more than 2 nm apart in the magnetoreceptor protein. The latter means that animal cryptochromes that have a tetrad (rather than a triad) of tryptophan electron donors can still be expected to be viable as magnetic compass sensors. Lifting the restriction on the rate of the spin-selective recombination reaction also means that the detrimental effects of inter-radical exchange and dipolar interactions can be minimised by placing the radicals much further apart than in the current model.
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Pleskač L, Hart V, Nováková P, Painter MS. Spatial orientation of foraging corvids consistent with spontaneous magnetic alignment responses observed in a variety of free-roaming vertebrates. FOLIA ZOOLOGICA 2017. [DOI: 10.25225/fozo.v66.i2.a3.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lukáš Pleskač
- Department of Game Management and Wildlife Biology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, Kamýcká 129, 165 21 Praha 6, Czech Republic;, , ,
| | - Vlastimil Hart
- Department of Game Management and Wildlife Biology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, Kamýcká 129, 165 21 Praha 6, Czech Republic;, , ,
| | - Petra Nováková
- Department of Game Management and Wildlife Biology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, Kamýcká 129, 165 21 Praha 6, Czech Republic;, , ,
| | - Michael S. Painter
- Department of Game Management and Wildlife Biology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, Kamýcká 129, 165 21 Praha 6, Czech Republic;, , ,
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Microfluidic sorting of intrinsically magnetic cells under visual control. Sci Rep 2017; 7:6942. [PMID: 28761104 PMCID: PMC5537260 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-06946-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Magnetic cell sorting provides a valuable complementary mechanism to fluorescent techniques, especially if its parameters can be fine-tuned. In addition, there has recently been growing interest in studying naturally occurring magnetic cells and genetic engineering of cells to render them magnetic in order to control molecular processes via magnetic fields. For such approaches, contamination-free magnetic separation is an essential capability. We here present a robust and tunable microfluidic sorting system in which magnetic gradients of up to 1700 T/m can be applied to cells flowing through a sorting channel by reversible magnetization of ferrofluids. Visual control of the sorting process allowed us to optimize sorting efficiencies for a large range of sizes and magnetic moments of cells. Using automated quantification based on imaging of fluorescent markers, we showed that macrophages containing phagocytosed magnetic nanoparticles, with cellular magnetic dipole moments on the order of 10 fAm2, could be sorted with an efficiency of 90 ± 1%. Furthermore, we successfully sorted intrinsically magnetic magnetotactic bacteria with magnetic moments of 0.1 fAm2. In distinction to column-based magnetic sorting devices, microfluidic systems can prevent sample contact with superparamagnetic material. This ensures contamination-free separation of naturally occurring or bioengineered magnetic cells and is essential for downstream characterization of their properties.
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Abstract
Diverse animals ranging from worms and insects to birds and turtles perform impressive journeys using the magnetic field of the earth as a cue. Although major cellular and molecular mechanisms for sensing mechanical and chemical cues have been elucidated over the past three decades, the mechanisms that animals use to sense magnetic fields remain largely mysterious. Here we survey progress on the search for magnetosensory neurons and magnetosensitive molecules important for animal behaviors. Emphasis is placed on magnetosensation in insects and birds, as well as on the magnetosensitive neuron pair AFD in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. We also review conventional criteria used to define animal magnetoreceptors and suggest how approaches used to identify receptors for other sensory modalities may be adapted for magnetoreceptors. Finally, we discuss prospects for underutilized and novel approaches to identify the elusive magnetoreceptors in animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin L Clites
- Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Center for Brain, Behavior and Evolution, Center for Learning and Memory, Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, and Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas, Austin, Texas 78712; ,
| | - Jonathan T Pierce
- Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Center for Brain, Behavior and Evolution, Center for Learning and Memory, Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, and Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas, Austin, Texas 78712; ,
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Wajnberg E, Rossi AL, Esquivel DMS. Titanium and iron titanium oxide nanoparticles in antennae of the migratory ant Pachycondyla marginata: an alternative magnetic sensor for magnetoreception? Biometals 2017; 30:541-548. [PMID: 28608290 DOI: 10.1007/s10534-017-0024-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/29/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The most accepted hypothesis of magnetoreception for social insects is the ferromagnetic hypothesis which assumes the presence of magnetic material as a sensor coupled to sensitive structures that transmit the geomagnetic field information to the nervous system. As magnetite is the most common magnetic material observed in living beings, it has been suggested as basic constituent of the magnetoreception system. Antennae and head have been pointed as possible magnetosensor organs in social insects as ants, bees and termites. Samples of three antenna joints: head-scape, scape-pedicel and pedicel-third segment joints were embedded in epoxi resin, ultrathin sectioned and analyzed by transmission electron microscopy. Selected area electron diffraction patterns and X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy were obtained to identify the nanoparticle compound. Besides iron oxides, for the first time, nanoparticles containing titanium have been identified surrounded by tissue in the antennae of ants. Given their dimension and related magnetic characteristics, these nanoparticles are discussed as being part of the magnetosensor system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliane Wajnberg
- Centro Brasileiro de Pesquisas Físicas, R Xavier Sigaud 150, Rio de Janeiro, 22290-180, Brazil.
| | - André Linhares Rossi
- Centro Brasileiro de Pesquisas Físicas, R Xavier Sigaud 150, Rio de Janeiro, 22290-180, Brazil
| | - Darci Motta S Esquivel
- Centro Brasileiro de Pesquisas Físicas, R Xavier Sigaud 150, Rio de Janeiro, 22290-180, Brazil
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Zmejkoski D, Petković B, Pavković-Lučić S, Prolić Z, Anđelković M, Savić T. Different responses of Drosophila subobscura isofemale lines to extremely low frequency magnetic field (50 Hz, 0.5 mT): fitness components and locomotor activity. Int J Radiat Biol 2016; 93:544-552. [PMID: 27921519 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2017.1268281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Extremely low frequency (ELF) magnetic fields as essential ecological factors may induce specific responses in genetically different lines. The object of this study was to investigate the impact of the ELF magnetic field on fitness components and locomotor activity of five Drosophila subobscura isofemale (IF) lines. MATERIALS AND METHODS Each D. subobscura IF line, arbitrarily named: B16/1, B24/4, B39/1, B57/2 and B69/5, was maintained in five full-sib inbreeding generations. Their genetic structures were defined based on the mitochondrial DNA variability. Egg-first instar larvae and 1-day-old flies were exposed to an ELF magnetic field (50 Hz, 0.5 mT, 48 h) and thereafter, fitness components and locomotor activity of males and females in an open field test were observed for each selected IF line, respectively. RESULTS Exposure of egg-first instar larvae to an ELF magnetic field shortened developmental time, and did not affect the viability and sex ratio of D. subobscura IF lines. Exposure of 1-day-old males and females IF lines B16/1 and B24/4 to an ELF magnetic field significantly decreased their locomotor activity and this effect lasted longer in females than males. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate various responses of D. subobscura IF lines to the applied ELF magnetic field depending on their genetic background.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danica Zmejkoski
- a Laboratory of Materials Science, University of Belgrade, Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences , Belgrade , Serbia
| | - Branka Petković
- b Department of Neurophysiology, University of Belgrade, Institute for Biological Research , Belgrade , Serbia
| | - Sofija Pavković-Lučić
- c Chair of Genetics and Evolution, Faculty of Biology , University of Belgrade , Belgrade , Serbia
| | - Zlatko Prolić
- d Department of Insect Physiology and Biochemistry , University of Belgrade, Institute for Biological Research , Belgrade , Serbia
| | - Marko Anđelković
- c Chair of Genetics and Evolution, Faculty of Biology , University of Belgrade , Belgrade , Serbia.,e Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences , Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts , Belgrade , Serbia.,f Department of Genetics of Populations and Ecogenotoxicology , University of Belgrade, Institute for Biological Research , Belgrade , Serbia
| | - Tatjana Savić
- f Department of Genetics of Populations and Ecogenotoxicology , University of Belgrade, Institute for Biological Research , Belgrade , Serbia
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Migratory blackcaps can use their magnetic compass at 5 degrees inclination, but are completely random at 0 degrees inclination. Sci Rep 2016; 6:33805. [PMID: 27667569 PMCID: PMC5036058 DOI: 10.1038/srep33805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2016] [Accepted: 08/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
It is known that night-migratory songbirds use a magnetic compass measuring the magnetic inclination angle, i.e. the angle between the Earth’s surface and the magnetic field lines, but how do such birds orient at the magnetic equator? A previous study reported that birds are completely randomly oriented in a horizontal north-south magnetic field with 0° inclination angle. This seems counter-intuitive, because birds using an inclination compass should be able to separate the north-south axis from the east-west axis, so that bimodal orientation might be expected in a horizontal field. Furthermore, little is known about how shallow inclination angles migratory birds can still use for orientation. In this study, we tested the magnetic compass orientation of night-migratory Eurasian blackcaps (Sylvia atricapilla) in magnetic fields with 5° and 0° inclination. At 5° inclination, the birds oriented as well as they did in the normal 67° inclined field in Oldenburg. In contrast, they were completely randomly oriented in the horizontal field, showing no sign of bimodality. Our results indicate that the inclination limit for the magnetic compass of the blackcap is below 5° and that these birds indeed seem completely unable to use their magnetic compass for orientation in a horizontal magnetic field.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. J. Hore
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QZ, United Kingdom;
| | - Henrik Mouritsen
- Institut für Biologie und Umweltwissenschaften, Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, DE-26111 Oldenburg, Germany;
- Research Centre for Neurosensory Sciences, University of Oldenburg, DE-26111 Oldenburg, Germany
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37
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Ernst DA, Lohmann KJ. Effect of magnetic pulses on Caribbean spiny lobsters: implications for magnetoreception. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 219:1827-32. [PMID: 27045095 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.136036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2015] [Accepted: 03/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The Caribbean spiny lobster, Panulirus argus, is a migratory crustacean that uses Earth's magnetic field as a navigational cue, but how these lobsters detect magnetic fields is not known. Magnetic material thought to be magnetite has previously been detected in spiny lobsters, but its role in magnetoreception, if any, remains unclear. As a first step toward investigating whether lobsters might have magnetite-based magnetoreceptors, we subjected lobsters to strong, pulsed magnetic fields capable of reversing the magnetic dipole moment of biogenic magnetite crystals. Lobsters were subjected to a single pulse directed from posterior to anterior and either: (1) parallel to the horizontal component of the geomagnetic field (i.e. toward magnetic north); or (2) antiparallel to the horizontal field (i.e. toward magnetic south). An additional control group was handled but not subjected to a magnetic pulse. After treatment, each lobster was tethered in a water-filled arena located within 200 m of the capture location and allowed to walk in any direction. Control lobsters walked in seemingly random directions and were not significantly oriented as a group. In contrast, the two groups exposed to pulsed fields were significantly oriented in approximately opposite directions. Lobsters subjected to a magnetic pulse applied parallel to the geomagnetic horizontal component walked westward; those subjected to a pulse directed antiparallel to the geomagnetic horizontal component oriented approximately northeast. The finding that a magnetic pulse alters subsequent orientation behavior is consistent with the hypothesis that magnetoreception in spiny lobsters is based at least partly on magnetite-based magnetoreceptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Ernst
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Kenneth J Lohmann
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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38
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Cryptochrome 1 in Retinal Cone Photoreceptors Suggests a Novel Functional Role in Mammals. Sci Rep 2016; 6:21848. [PMID: 26898837 PMCID: PMC4761878 DOI: 10.1038/srep21848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptochromes are a ubiquitous group of blue-light absorbing flavoproteins that in the mammalian retina have an important role in the circadian clock. In birds, cryptochrome 1a (Cry1a), localized in the UV/violet-sensitive S1 cone photoreceptors, is proposed to be the retinal receptor molecule of the light-dependent magnetic compass. The retinal localization of mammalian Cry1, homologue to avian Cry1a, is unknown, and it is open whether mammalian Cry1 is also involved in magnetic field sensing. To constrain the possible role of retinal Cry1, we immunohistochemically analysed 90 mammalian species across 48 families in 16 orders, using an antiserum against the Cry1 C-terminus that in birds labels only the photo-activated conformation. In the Carnivora families Canidae, Mustelidae and Ursidae, and in some Primates, Cry1 was consistently labeled in the outer segment of the shortwave-sensitive S1 cones. This finding would be compatible with a magnetoreceptive function of Cry1 in these taxa. In all other taxa, Cry1 was not detected by the antiserum that likely also in mammals labels the photo-activated conformation, although Western blots showed Cry1 in mouse retinal cell nuclei. We speculate that in the mouse and the other negative-tested mammals Cry1 is involved in circadian functions as a non-light-responsive protein.
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Kattnig DR, Evans EW, Déjean V, Dodson CA, Wallace MI, Mackenzie SR, Timmel CR, Hore PJ. Chemical amplification of magnetic field effects relevant to avian magnetoreception. Nat Chem 2016; 8:384-91. [PMID: 27001735 DOI: 10.1038/nchem.2447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2015] [Accepted: 12/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Magnetic fields as weak as the Earth's can change the yields of radical pair reactions even though the energies involved are orders of magnitude smaller than the thermal energy, kBT, at room temperature. Proposed as the source of the light-dependent magnetic compass in migratory birds, the radical pair mechanism is thought to operate in cryptochrome flavoproteins in the retina. Here we demonstrate that the primary magnetic field effect on flavin photoreactions can be amplified chemically by slow radical termination reactions under conditions of continuous photoexcitation. The nature and origin of the amplification are revealed by studies of the intermolecular flavin-tryptophan and flavin-ascorbic acid photocycles and the closely related intramolecular flavin-tryptophan radical pair in cryptochrome. Amplification factors of up to 5.6 were observed for magnetic fields weaker than 1 mT. Substantial chemical amplification could have a significant impact on the viability of a cryptochrome-based magnetic compass sensor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R Kattnig
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Physical &Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, Oxford OX1 3QZ, UK
| | - Emrys W Evans
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory, Oxford OX1 3QR, UK
| | - Victoire Déjean
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory, Oxford OX1 3QR, UK
| | - Charlotte A Dodson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Chemistry Research Laboratory, Oxford OX1 3TA, UK
| | - Mark I Wallace
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Chemistry Research Laboratory, Oxford OX1 3TA, UK
| | - Stuart R Mackenzie
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Physical &Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, Oxford OX1 3QZ, UK
| | - Christiane R Timmel
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory, Oxford OX1 3QR, UK
| | - P J Hore
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Physical &Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, Oxford OX1 3QZ, UK
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Lohmann KJ. Protein complexes: A candidate magnetoreceptor. NATURE MATERIALS 2016; 15:136-138. [PMID: 26796731 DOI: 10.1038/nmat4550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth J Lohmann
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
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Belova NA, Acosta-Avalos D. The Effect of Extremely Low Frequency Alternating Magnetic Field on the Behavior of Animals in the Presence of the Geomagnetic Field. JOURNAL OF BIOPHYSICS (HINDAWI PUBLISHING CORPORATION : ONLINE) 2015; 2015:423838. [PMID: 26823664 PMCID: PMC4707359 DOI: 10.1155/2015/423838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Accepted: 12/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
It is known that the geomagnetic field can influence animal migration and homing. The magnetic field detection by animals is known as magnetoreception and it is possible due to two different transduction mechanisms: the first one through magnetic nanoparticles able to respond to the geomagnetic field and the second one through chemical reactions influenced by magnetic fields. Another behavior is the magnetic alignment where animals align their bodies to the geomagnetic field. It has been observed that magnetic alignment of cattle can be disrupted near electric power lines around the world. Experimentally, it is known that alternating magnetic fields can influence living beings, but the exact mechanism is unknown. The parametric resonance model proposes a mechanism to explain that effect on living beings and establishes that, in the presence of a constant magnetic field, molecules associated with biochemical reactions inside cells can absorb resonantly alternating magnetic fields with specific frequencies. In the present paper, a review is made about animal magnetoreception and the effects of alternating magnetic fields in living beings. It is suggested how alternating magnetic fields can interfere in the magnetic alignment of animals and a general conclusion is obtained: alternating magnetic field pollution can affect the magnetic sensibility of animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia A. Belova
- Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics Russian Academy of Sciences, Institutskaya 3, Pushchino, Moscow 142290, Russia
| | - Daniel Acosta-Avalos
- Centro Brasileiro de Pesquisas Fisicas (CBPF), Rua Xavier Sigaud 150, Urca, 22290-180 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Goychuk I. Modeling magnetosensitive ion channels in the viscoelastic environment of living cells. PHYSICAL REVIEW. E, STATISTICAL, NONLINEAR, AND SOFT MATTER PHYSICS 2015; 92:042711. [PMID: 26565276 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.92.042711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
We propose and study a model of hypothetical magnetosensitive ionic channels which are long thought to be a possible candidate to explain the influence of weak magnetic fields on living organisms ranging from magnetotactic bacteria to fishes, birds, rats, bats, and other mammals including humans. The core of the model is provided by a short chain of magnetosomes serving as a sensor, which is coupled by elastic linkers to the gating elements of ion channels forming a small cluster in the cell membrane. The magnetic sensor is fixed by one end on cytoskeleton elements attached to the membrane and is exposed to viscoelastic cytosol. Its free end can reorient stochastically and subdiffusively in viscoelastic cytosol responding to external magnetic field changes and can open the gates of coupled ion channels. The sensor dynamics is generally bistable due to bistability of the gates which can be in two states with probabilities which depend on the sensor orientation. For realistic parameters, it is shown that this model channel can operate in the magnetic field of Earth for a small number (five to seven) of single-domain magnetosomes constituting the sensor rod, each of which has a typical size found in magnetotactic bacteria and other organisms or even just one sufficiently large nanoparticle of a characteristic size also found in nature. It is shown that, due to the viscoelasticity of the medium, the bistable gating dynamics generally exhibits power law and stretched exponential distributions of the residence times of the channels in their open and closed states. This provides a generic physical mechanism for the explanation of the origin of such anomalous kinetics for other ionic channels whose sensors move in a viscoelastic environment provided by either cytosol or biological membrane, in a quite general context, beyond the fascinating hypothesis of magnetosensitive ionic channels we explore.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Goychuk
- Institute for Physics and Astronomy, University of Potsdam, Karl-Liebknecht-Strasse 24/25, 14476 Potsdam-Golm, Germany
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43
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Shaw J, Boyd A, House M, Woodward R, Mathes F, Cowin G, Saunders M, Baer B. Magnetic particle-mediated magnetoreception. J R Soc Interface 2015; 12:0499. [PMID: 26333810 PMCID: PMC4614459 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2015.0499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2015] [Accepted: 08/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Behavioural studies underpin the weight of experimental evidence for the existence of a magnetic sense in animals. In contrast, studies aimed at understanding the mechanistic basis of magnetoreception by determining the anatomical location, structure and function of sensory cells have been inconclusive. In this review, studies attempting to demonstrate the existence of a magnetoreceptor based on the principles of the magnetite hypothesis are examined. Specific attention is given to the range of techniques, and main animal model systems that have been used in the search for magnetite particulates. Anatomical location/cell rarity and composition are identified as two key obstacles that must be addressed in order to make progress in locating and characterizing a magnetite-based magnetoreceptor cell. Avenues for further study are suggested, including the need for novel experimental, correlative, multimodal and multidisciplinary approaches. The aim of this review is to inspire new efforts towards understanding the cellular basis of magnetoreception in animals, which will in turn inform a new era of behavioural research based on first principles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Shaw
- Centre for Microscopy, Characterisation and Analysis, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Alastair Boyd
- Centre for Microscopy, Characterisation and Analysis, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Michael House
- School of Physics, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Robert Woodward
- School of Physics, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Falko Mathes
- School of Earth and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Gary Cowin
- Centre for Advanced Imaging, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Martin Saunders
- Centre for Microscopy, Characterisation and Analysis, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Boris Baer
- Centre for Integrative Bee Research (CIBER), The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia
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Meilikhov E. Is magnetic resonance imaging of human brain is harmful? Med Hypotheses 2015; 85:258-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2015.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2015] [Revised: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 05/10/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Jandacka P, Burda H, Pistora J. Magnetically induced behaviour of ferritin corpuscles in avian ears: can cuticulosomes function as magnetosomes? J R Soc Interface 2015; 12:20141087. [PMID: 25551148 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2014.1087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Magnetoreception is an enigmatic, poorly understood sensory ability, described mainly on the basis of behavioural studies in animals of diverse taxa. Recently, corpuscles containing superparamagnetic iron-storage protein ferritin were found in the inner ear hair cells of birds, a predominantly single ferritin corpuscle per cell. It was suggested that these corpuscles might represent magnetosomes and function as magnetosensors. Here we determine ferritin low-field paramagnetic susceptibility to estimate its magnetically induced intracellular behaviour. Physical simulations show that ferritin corpuscles cannot be deformed or rotate in weak geomagnetic fields, and thus cannot provide magnetoreception via deformation of the cuticular plate. Furthermore, we reached an alternative hypothesis that ferritin corpuscle in avian ears may function as an intracellular electromagnetic oscillator. Such an oscillator would generate additional cellular electric potential related to normal cell conditions. Though the phenomenon seems to be weak, this effect deserves further analyses.
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Landler L, Painter MS, Youmans PW, Hopkins WA, Phillips JB. Spontaneous magnetic alignment by yearling snapping turtles: rapid association of radio frequency dependent pattern of magnetic input with novel surroundings. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0124728. [PMID: 25978736 PMCID: PMC4433231 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0124728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2014] [Accepted: 03/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated spontaneous magnetic alignment (SMA) by juvenile snapping turtles using exposure to low-level radio frequency (RF) fields at the Larmor frequency to help characterize the underlying sensory mechanism. Turtles, first introduced to the testing environment without the presence of RF aligned consistently towards magnetic north when subsequent magnetic testing conditions were also free of RF ('RF off → RF off'), but were disoriented when subsequently exposed to RF ('RF off → RF on'). In contrast, animals initially introduced to the testing environment with RF present were disoriented when tested without RF ('RF on → RF off'), but aligned towards magnetic south when tested with RF ('RF on → RF on'). Sensitivity of the SMA response of yearling turtles to RF is consistent with the involvement of a radical pair mechanism. Furthermore, the effect of RF appears to result from a change in the pattern of magnetic input, rather than elimination of magnetic input altogether, as proposed to explain similar effects in other systems/organisms. The findings show that turtles first exposed to a novel environment form a lasting association between the pattern of magnetic input and their surroundings. However, under natural conditions turtles would never experience a change in the pattern of magnetic input. Therefore, if turtles form a similar association of magnetic cues with the surroundings each time they encounter unfamiliar habitat, as seems likely, the same pattern of magnetic input would be associated with multiple sites/localities. This would be expected from a sensory input that functions as a global reference frame, helping to place multiple locales (i.e., multiple local landmark arrays) into register to form a global map of familiar space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Landler
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Michael S. Painter
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Paul W. Youmans
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - William A. Hopkins
- Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - John B. Phillips
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
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Malkemper EP, Eder SHK, Begall S, Phillips JB, Winklhofer M, Hart V, Burda H. Magnetoreception in the wood mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus): influence of weak frequency-modulated radio frequency fields. Sci Rep 2015; 4:9917. [PMID: 25923312 PMCID: PMC4413948 DOI: 10.1038/srep09917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2014] [Accepted: 03/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian magnetic sense is predominantly studied in species with reduced vision such as mole-rats and bats. Far less is known about surface-dwelling (epigeic) rodents with well-developed eyes. Here, we tested the wood mouse Apodemus sylvaticus for magnetoreception using a simple behavioural assay in which mice are allowed to build nests overnight in a visually symmetrical, circular arena. The tests were performed in the ambient magnetic field or in a field rotated by 90°. When plotted with respect to magnetic north, the nests were bimodally clustered in the northern and southern sectors, clearly indicating that the animals used magnetic cues. Additionally, mice were tested in the ambient magnetic field with a superimposed radio frequency magnetic field of the order of 100 nT. Wood mice exposed to a 0.9 to 5 MHz frequency sweep changed their preference from north-south to east-west. In contrast to birds, however, a constant frequency field tuned to the Larmor frequency (1.33 MHz) had no effect on mouse orientation. In sum, we demonstrated magnetoreception in wood mice and provide first evidence for a radical-pair mechanism in a mammal.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Pascal Malkemper
- Department of General Zoology, Faculty of Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45117 Essen, Germany
| | - Stephan H K Eder
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Geophysics, Munich University, 80333 Munich, Germany
| | - Sabine Begall
- Department of General Zoology, Faculty of Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45117 Essen, Germany
| | - John B Phillips
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Michael Winklhofer
- 1] Faculty of Physics, University of Duisburg-Essen, 47057 Duisburg, Germany [2] Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Geophysics, Munich University, 80333 Munich, Germany
| | - Vlastimil Hart
- Department of Game Management and Wildlife Biology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, 16521 Praha 6, Czech Republic
| | - Hynek Burda
- 1] Department of General Zoology, Faculty of Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45117 Essen, Germany [2] Department of Game Management and Wildlife Biology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, 16521 Praha 6, Czech Republic [3] Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, Branisovska 31, 370 05 Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
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Kishkinev DA, Chernetsov NS. Magnetoreception systems in birds: A review of current research. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.1134/s2079086415010041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Ramírez E, Marín G, Mpodozis J, Letelier JC. Extracellular recordings reveal absence of magneto sensitive units in the avian optic tectum. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2014; 200:983-96. [PMID: 25281335 PMCID: PMC4237910 DOI: 10.1007/s00359-014-0947-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2014] [Revised: 09/13/2014] [Accepted: 09/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
There is a consensus that birds detect the earth's magnetic field and use some of its features for orientation and homing purposes. Since the late 1960s, when the first solid behavioral evidence of magnetoreception was obtained, much research has been devoted to describing the ethological aspects of this behavior. The neurophysiological basis of magnetoreception has been much less studied, although a frequently cited 1986 report described a high prevalence (70 %) of magneto-sensitive neurons in the pigeon optic tectum with high signal-to-noise ratios (Semm and Demaine, J Comp Physiol A 159:619-625, 1986). Here, we repeated these neurophysiological experiments using anesthetized as well as awake pigeons and new recording techniques. Our data indicate that magneto-sensitive units do not exist in the avian tectum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgardo Ramírez
- Department of Biology, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile,
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Spontaneous expression of magnetic compass orientation in an epigeic rodent: the bank vole, Clethrionomys glareolus. Naturwissenschaften 2014; 101:557-63. [DOI: 10.1007/s00114-014-1192-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2014] [Revised: 04/23/2014] [Accepted: 05/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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