1
|
Thoradit T, Thongyoo K, Kamoltheptawin K, Tunprasert L, El-Esawi MA, Aguida B, Jourdan N, Buddhachat K, Pooam M. Cryptochrome and quantum biology: unraveling the mysteries of plant magnetoreception. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1266357. [PMID: 37860259 PMCID: PMC10583551 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1266357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Magnetoreception, the remarkable ability of organisms to perceive and respond to Earth's magnetic field, has captivated scientists for decades, particularly within the field of quantum biology. In the plant science, the exploration of the complicated interplay between quantum phenomena and classical biology in the context of plant magnetoreception has emerged as an attractive area of research. This comprehensive review investigates into three prominent theoretical models: the Radical Pair Mechanism (RPM), the Level Crossing Mechanism (LCM), and the Magnetite-based MagR theory in plants. While examining the advantages, limitations, and challenges associated with each model, this review places a particular weight on the RPM, highlighting its well-established role of cryptochromes and in-vivo experiments on light-independent plant magnetoreception. However, alternative mechanisms such as the LCM and the MagR theory are objectively presented as convincing perspectives that permit further investigation. To shed light on these theoretical frameworks, this review proposes experimental approaches including cutting-edge experimental techniques. By integrating these approaches, a comprehensive understanding of the complex mechanisms driving plant magnetoreception can be achieved, lending support to the fundamental principle in the RPM. In conclusion, this review provides a panoramic overview of plant magnetoreception, highlighting the exciting potential of quantum biology in unraveling the mysteries of magnetoreception. As researchers embark on this captivating scientific journey, the doors to deciphering the diverse mechanisms of magnetoreception in plants stand wide open, offering a profound exploration of nature's adaptations to environmental cues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thawatchai Thoradit
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, Thailand
| | - Kanjana Thongyoo
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, Thailand
| | | | - Lalin Tunprasert
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, Thailand
- State Key Laboratory for Mechanical Behavior of Materials, School of Material Science and Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | | | - Blanche Aguida
- UMR CNRS 8256 Adaptation biologique et vieillissement (B2A), Institute of Biology Paris Seine, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Jourdan
- UMR CNRS 8256 Adaptation biologique et vieillissement (B2A), Institute of Biology Paris Seine, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Kittisak Buddhachat
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, Thailand
| | - Marootpong Pooam
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Luo J. On the anisotropic weak magnetic field effect in radical-pair reactions. J Chem Phys 2023; 158:234302. [PMID: 37318169 DOI: 10.1063/5.0149644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
For more than 60 years, scientists have been fascinated by the fact that magnetic fields even weaker than internal hyperfine fields can markedly affect spin-selective radical-pair reactions. This weak magnetic field effect has been found to arise from the removal of degeneracies in the zero-field spin Hamiltonian. Here, I investigated the anisotropic effect of a weak magnetic field on a model radical pair with an axially symmetric hyperfine interaction. I found that S-T± and T0-T± interconversions driven by the smaller x and y-components of the hyperfine interaction can be hindered or enhanced by a weak external magnetic field, depending on its direction. Additional isotropically hyperfine-coupled nuclear spins preserve this conclusion, although the S → T± and T0 → T± transitions become asymmetric. These results are supported by simulating reaction yields of a more biologically plausible, flavin-based radical pair.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiate Luo
- Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QZ, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Grüning G, Wong SY, Gerhards L, Schuhmann F, Kattnig DR, Hore PJ, Solov’yov IA. Effects of Dynamical Degrees of Freedom on Magnetic Compass Sensitivity: A Comparison of Plant and Avian Cryptochromes. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:22902-22914. [DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c06233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gesa Grüning
- Department of Physics, Carl von Ossietzky University, Carl-von-Ossietzky-Street 9-11, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Siu Ying Wong
- Department of Physics, Carl von Ossietzky University, Carl-von-Ossietzky-Street 9-11, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Luca Gerhards
- Department of Physics, Carl von Ossietzky University, Carl-von-Ossietzky-Street 9-11, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Fabian Schuhmann
- Department of Physics, Carl von Ossietzky University, Carl-von-Ossietzky-Street 9-11, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Daniel R. Kattnig
- Department of Physics and Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, U.K
| | - P. J. Hore
- Department of Chemistry, Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QZ, U.K
| | - Ilia A. Solov’yov
- Department of Physics, Carl von Ossietzky University, Carl-von-Ossietzky-Street 9-11, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany
- Research Center for Neurosensory Science, Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, 26111 Oldenburg, Germany
- Center for Nanoscale Dynamics (CENAD), Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, Institut für Physik, Ammerländer Heerstreet 114-118, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Levitt BB, Lai HC, Manville AM. Low-level EMF effects on wildlife and plants: What research tells us about an ecosystem approach. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1000840. [PMID: 36505009 PMCID: PMC9732734 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1000840] [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: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
There is enough evidence to indicate we may be damaging non-human species at ecosystem and biosphere levels across all taxa from rising background levels of anthropogenic non-ionizing electromagnetic fields (EMF) from 0 Hz to 300 GHz. The focus of this Perspective paper is on the unique physiology of non-human species, their extraordinary sensitivity to both natural and anthropogenic EMF, and the likelihood that artificial EMF in the static, extremely low frequency (ELF) and radiofrequency (RF) ranges of the non-ionizing electromagnetic spectrum are capable at very low intensities of adversely affecting both fauna and flora in all species studied. Any existing exposure standards are for humans only; wildlife is unprotected, including within the safety margins of existing guidelines, which are inappropriate for trans-species sensitivities and different non-human physiology. Mechanistic, genotoxic, and potential ecosystem effects are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B. Blake Levitt
- National Association of Science Writers, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Henry C. Lai
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Albert M. Manville
- Advanced Academic Programs, Krieger School of Arts and Sciences, Environmental Sciences and Policy, Johns Hopkins University, Washington, DC, United States
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Levitt BB, Lai HC, Manville AM. Effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields on flora and fauna, Part 2 impacts: how species interact with natural and man-made EMF. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2022; 37:327-406. [PMID: 34243228 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2021-0050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Ambient levels of nonionizing electromagnetic fields (EMF) have risen sharply in the last five decades to become a ubiquitous, continuous, biologically active environmental pollutant, even in rural and remote areas. Many species of flora and fauna, because of unique physiologies and habitats, are sensitive to exogenous EMF in ways that surpass human reactivity. This can lead to complex endogenous reactions that are highly variable, largely unseen, and a possible contributing factor in species extinctions, sometimes localized. Non-human magnetoreception mechanisms are explored. Numerous studies across all frequencies and taxa indicate that current low-level anthropogenic EMF can have myriad adverse and synergistic effects, including on orientation and migration, food finding, reproduction, mating, nest and den building, territorial maintenance and defense, and on vitality, longevity and survivorship itself. Effects have been observed in mammals such as bats, cervids, cetaceans, and pinnipeds among others, and on birds, insects, amphibians, reptiles, microbes and many species of flora. Cyto- and geno-toxic effects have long been observed in laboratory research on animal models that can be extrapolated to wildlife. Unusual multi-system mechanisms can come into play with non-human species - including in aquatic environments - that rely on the Earth's natural geomagnetic fields for critical life-sustaining information. Part 2 of this 3-part series includes four online supplement tables of effects seen in animals from both ELF and RFR at vanishingly low intensities. Taken as a whole, this indicates enough information to raise concerns about ambient exposures to nonionizing radiation at ecosystem levels. Wildlife loss is often unseen and undocumented until tipping points are reached. It is time to recognize ambient EMF as a novel form of pollution and develop rules at regulatory agencies that designate air as 'habitat' so EMF can be regulated like other pollutants. Long-term chronic low-level EMF exposure standards, which do not now exist, should be set accordingly for wildlife, and environmental laws should be strictly enforced - a subject explored in Part 3.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Henry C Lai
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Albert M Manville
- Advanced Academic Programs, Krieger School of Arts and Sciences, Environmental Sciences and Policy, Johns Hopkins University, Washington DC Campus, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Yosef R, Kumbhojkar S, Gurjar B, Kosicki JZ. Magnetic alignment in free-ranging Indian Leopard (Panthera pardus fusca). PLoS One 2022; 17:e0266129. [PMID: 35802713 PMCID: PMC9269921 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0266129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The earth’s geomagnetic field (GMF) is known to influence the behaviour of a wide range of species, but remains one of the most enigmatic of animal senses. Animals are known to utilize the GMF for a wide range of survival capabilities such as navigation and orienteering, migration, territoriality, homing, etc. Despite a lot of study in this regard on vertebrates, little is known about the effects of GMF on felids. Hence, we analyzed the body alignment of the Indian Leopard during defecation, and walking along the trails in the Jhalana Reserve Forest in India. Using circular statistics, we found that the leopards aligned their bodies on the north-south axis during defecation (mean azimuth -176.4°), while no such preference was found when walking (mean azimuth 52.9°). Thus we prove that leopards are sensitive to the GMF during basic physiological activities and in this context show similar behaviour to other vertebrates studied to date.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reuven Yosef
- Ben Gurion University of the Negev-Eilat Campus, Eilat, Israel
| | | | - Bablu Gurjar
- Jhalana Wildlife Research Foundation Gharkul Society, Pune, India
| | - Jakub Z. Kosicki
- Department of Avian Biology and Ecology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Guo Z, Xu S, Chen X, Wang C, Yang P, Qin S, Zhao C, Fei F, Zhao X, Tan PH, Wang J, Xie C. Modulation of MagR magnetic properties via iron-sulfur cluster binding. Sci Rep 2021; 11:23941. [PMID: 34907239 PMCID: PMC8671422 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-03344-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Iron-sulfur clusters are essential cofactors found in all kingdoms of life and play essential roles in fundamental processes, including but not limited to respiration, photosynthesis, and nitrogen fixation. The chemistry of iron-sulfur clusters makes them ideal for sensing various redox environmental signals, while the physics of iron-sulfur clusters and its host proteins have been long overlooked. One such protein, MagR, has been proposed as a putative animal magnetoreceptor. It forms a rod-like complex with cryptochromes (Cry) and possesses intrinsic magnetic moment. However, the magnetism modulation of MagR remains unknown. Here in this study, iron-sulfur cluster binding in MagR has been characterized. Three conserved cysteines of MagR play different roles in iron-sulfur cluster binding. Two forms of iron-sulfur clusters binding have been identified in pigeon MagR and showed different magnetic properties: [3Fe-4S]-MagR appears to be superparamagnetic and has saturation magnetization at 5 K but [2Fe-2S]-MagR is paramagnetic. While at 300 K, [2Fe-2S]-MagR is diamagnetic but [3Fe-4S]-MagR is paramagnetic. Together, the different types of iron-sulfur cluster binding in MagR attribute distinguished magnetic properties, which may provide a fascinating mechanism for animals to modulate the sensitivity in magnetic sensing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Shuai Xu
- High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Science Island, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Xue Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Superlattices and Microstructures, Institute of Semiconductors, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Changhao Wang
- High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Science Island, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Peilin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Siying Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Cuiping Zhao
- Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Fan Fei
- High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Science Island, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Xianglong Zhao
- High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Science Island, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Ping-Heng Tan
- State Key Laboratory for Superlattices and Microstructures, Institute of Semiconductors, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Junfeng Wang
- High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Science Island, Hefei, 230031, China
- International Magnetobiology Frontier Research Center, Science Island, Hefei, 230031, China
| | - Can Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
- High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Science Island, Hefei, 230031, China.
- International Magnetobiology Frontier Research Center, Science Island, Hefei, 230031, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Babcock N, Kattnig DR. Radical Scavenging Could Answer the Challenge Posed by Electron-Electron Dipolar Interactions in the Cryptochrome Compass Model. JACS AU 2021; 1:2033-2046. [PMID: 34841416 PMCID: PMC8611662 DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.1c00332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Many birds are endowed with a visual magnetic sense that may exploit magnetosensitive radical recombination processes in the protein cryptochrome. In this widely accepted but unproven model, geomagnetic sensitivity is suggested to arise from variations in the recombination rate of a pair of radicals, whose unpaired electron spins undergo coherent singlet-triplet interconversion in the geomagnetic field by coupling to nuclear spins via hyperfine interactions. However, simulations of this conventional radical pair mechanism (RPM) predicted only tiny magnetosensitivities for realistic conditions because the RPM's directional sensitivity is strongly suppressed by the intrinsic electron-electron dipolar (EED) interactions, casting doubt on its viability as a magnetic sensor. We show how this RPM-suppression problem is overcome in a three-radical system in which a third "scavenger" radical reacts with one member of the primary pair. We use this finding to predict substantial magnetic field effects that exceed those of the RPM in the presence of EED interactions in animal cryptochromes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan
Sean Babcock
- Quantum
Biology Laboratory, Howard University, 2400 Sixth Street NW, Washington District of Columbia, 20059, United States of America
- Living
Systems Institute and Department of Physics University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel R. Kattnig
- Living
Systems Institute and Department of Physics University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abstract
Species throughout the animal kingdom use the Earth's magnetic field (MF) to navigate using either or both of two mechanisms. The first relies on magnetite crystals in tissue where their magnetic moments align with the MF to transduce a signal transmitted to the central nervous system. The second and the subject of this paper involves cryptochrome (CRY) proteins located in cone photoreceptors distributed across the retina, studied most extensively in birds. According to the "Radical Pair Mechanism" (RPM), blue/UV light excites CRY's flavin cofactor (FAD) to generate radical pairs whose singlet-to-triplet interconversion rate is modulated by an external MF. The signaling product of the RPM produces an impression of the field across the retinal surface. In birds, the resulting signal on the optic nerve is transmitted along the thalamofugal pathway to the primary visual cortex, which projects to brain regions concerned with image processing, memory, and executive function. The net result is a bird's orientation to the MF's inclination: its vector angle relative to the Earth's surface. The quality of ambient light (e.g., polarization) provides additional input to the compass. In birds, the Type IV CRY isoform appears pivotal to the compass, given its positioning within retinal cones; a cytosolic location therein indicating no role in the circadian clock; relatively steady diurnal levels (unlike Type II CRY's cycling); and a full complement of FAD (essential for photosensitivity). The evidence indicates that mammalian Type II CRY isoforms play a light-independent role in the cellular molecular clock without a photoreceptive function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Joseph Brain
- Environmental Physiology, Molecular, and Integrative Physiological Sciences Program, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bingman VP, Pemberton ML, Mora CV. Avian forebrain processing of magnetic intensity and inclination: hippocampus, anterior forebrain Wulst and an unexpected double-dissociation. ETHOL ECOL EVOL 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/03949370.2021.1871966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Verner P. Bingman
- Department of Psychology and J.P. Scott Center for Neuroscience, Mind and Behavior, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, Ohio 43403, USA
| | - Merissa L. Pemberton
- Department of Psychology and J.P. Scott Center for Neuroscience, Mind and Behavior, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, Ohio 43403, USA
| | - Cordula V. Mora
- Department of Psychology and J.P. Scott Center for Neuroscience, Mind and Behavior, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, Ohio 43403, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Procopio M, Ritz T. The reference-probe model for a robust and optimal radical-pair-based magnetic compass sensor. J Chem Phys 2020; 152:065104. [PMID: 32061231 DOI: 10.1063/1.5128128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Radical-pair reactions have been suggested to be sensitive to the direction of weak magnetic fields, thereby providing a mechanism for the magnetic compass in animals. Discovering the general principles that make radical pairs particularly sensitive to the direction of weak magnetic fields will be essential for designing bioinspired compass sensors and for advancing our understanding of the spin physics behind directional effects. The reference-probe model is a conceptual model introduced as a guide to identify radical-pair parameters for optimal directional effects. Radical pairs with probe character have been extensively shown to enhance directional sensitivity to weak magnetic fields, but investigations on the role of the reference radical are lacking. Here, we evaluate whether a radical has reference character and then study its relevance for optimal directional effects. We investigate a simple radical-pair model with one axially anisotropic hyperfine interaction using both analytical and numerical calculations. Analytical calculations result in a general expression of the radical-pair reaction yield, which in turn provides useful insights into directional effects. We further investigate the relevance of the reference character to robustness against variations of earth-strength magnetic fields and find that the reference character captures robust features as well. Extending this study to radical pairs with more hyperfine interactions, we discuss the interplay between reference character and optimal and robust directional effects in such more complex radical pairs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Procopio
- Department of Biophysics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, USA
| | - Thorsten Ritz
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of California, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Johnsen S, Lohmann KJ, Warrant EJ. Animal navigation: a noisy magnetic sense? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 223:223/18/jeb164921. [PMID: 32967977 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.164921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Diverse organisms use Earth's magnetic field as a cue in orientation and navigation. Nevertheless, eliciting magnetic orientation responses reliably, either in laboratory or natural settings, is often difficult. Many species appear to preferentially exploit non-magnetic cues if they are available, suggesting that the magnetic sense often serves as a redundant or 'backup' source of information. This raises an interesting paradox: Earth's magnetic field appears to be more pervasive and reliable than almost any other navigational cue. Why then do animals not rely almost exclusively on the geomagnetic field, while ignoring or downplaying other cues? Here, we explore a possible explanation: that the magnetic sense of animals is 'noisy', in that the magnetic signal is small relative to thermal and receptor noise. Magnetic receptors are thus unable to instantaneously acquire magnetic information that is highly precise or accurate. We speculate that extensive time-averaging and/or other higher-order neural processing of magnetic information is required, rendering the magnetic sense inefficient relative to alternative cues that can be detected faster and with less effort. This interpretation is consistent with experimental results suggesting a long time course for magnetic compass and map responses in some animals. Despite possible limitations, magnetoreception may be maintained by natural selection because the geomagnetic field is sometimes the only source of directional and/or positional information available.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sönke Johnsen
- Biology Department, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Kenneth J Lohmann
- Biology Department, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Eric J Warrant
- Lund Vision Group, Biology Department, Lund University, 223 62 Lund, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ogneva IV, Usik MA, Burtseva MV, Biryukov NS, Zhdankina YS, Sychev VN, Orlov OI. Drosophila melanogaster Sperm under Simulated Microgravity and a Hypomagnetic Field: Motility and Cell Respiration. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21175985. [PMID: 32825268 PMCID: PMC7503777 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21175985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of the Earth's gravitational and magnetic fields in the evolution and maintenance of normal processes of various animal species remains unclear. The aim of this work was to determine the effect of simulated microgravity and hypomagnetic conditions for 1, 3, and 6 h on the sperm motility of the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. In addition to the usual diet, the groups were administered oral essential phospholipids at a dosage of 500 mg/kg in medium. The speed of the sperm tails was determined by video recording and analysis of the obtained video files, protein content by western blotting, and cell respiration by polarography. The results indicated an increase in the speed of movement of the sperm tails after 6 h in simulated microgravity. The levels of proteins that form the axoneme of the sperm tail did not change, but cellular respiration was altered. A similar effect occurred with the administration of essential phospholipids. These results may be due to a change in the level of phosphorylation of motor proteins. Exposure to hypomagnetic conditions led to a decrease in motility after 6 h against a background of a decrease in the rate of cellular respiration due to complex I of the respiratory chain. This effect was not observed in the flies that received essential phospholipids. However, after 1 h under hypomagnetic conditions, the rate of cellular respiration also increased due to complex I, including that in the sperm of flies receiving essential phospholipids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irina V. Ogneva
- Cell Biophysics Laboratory, State Scientific Center of the Russian Federation Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 76a, Khoroshevskoyoe shosse, 123007 Moscow, Russia; (M.A.U.); (M.V.B.); (N.S.B.); (Y.S.Z.); (V.N.S.); (O.I.O.)
- Department of Medical and Biological Physics, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 8-2 Trubetskaya St., 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +7-4991956398; Fax: +7-4991952253
| | - Maria A. Usik
- Cell Biophysics Laboratory, State Scientific Center of the Russian Federation Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 76a, Khoroshevskoyoe shosse, 123007 Moscow, Russia; (M.A.U.); (M.V.B.); (N.S.B.); (Y.S.Z.); (V.N.S.); (O.I.O.)
- Department of Medical and Biological Physics, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 8-2 Trubetskaya St., 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Maria V. Burtseva
- Cell Biophysics Laboratory, State Scientific Center of the Russian Federation Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 76a, Khoroshevskoyoe shosse, 123007 Moscow, Russia; (M.A.U.); (M.V.B.); (N.S.B.); (Y.S.Z.); (V.N.S.); (O.I.O.)
| | - Nikolay S. Biryukov
- Cell Biophysics Laboratory, State Scientific Center of the Russian Federation Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 76a, Khoroshevskoyoe shosse, 123007 Moscow, Russia; (M.A.U.); (M.V.B.); (N.S.B.); (Y.S.Z.); (V.N.S.); (O.I.O.)
- Department of Medical and Biological Physics, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 8-2 Trubetskaya St., 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Yuliya S. Zhdankina
- Cell Biophysics Laboratory, State Scientific Center of the Russian Federation Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 76a, Khoroshevskoyoe shosse, 123007 Moscow, Russia; (M.A.U.); (M.V.B.); (N.S.B.); (Y.S.Z.); (V.N.S.); (O.I.O.)
- Department of Medical and Biological Physics, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 8-2 Trubetskaya St., 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Vladimir N. Sychev
- Cell Biophysics Laboratory, State Scientific Center of the Russian Federation Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 76a, Khoroshevskoyoe shosse, 123007 Moscow, Russia; (M.A.U.); (M.V.B.); (N.S.B.); (Y.S.Z.); (V.N.S.); (O.I.O.)
| | - Oleg I. Orlov
- Cell Biophysics Laboratory, State Scientific Center of the Russian Federation Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 76a, Khoroshevskoyoe shosse, 123007 Moscow, Russia; (M.A.U.); (M.V.B.); (N.S.B.); (Y.S.Z.); (V.N.S.); (O.I.O.)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
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.
Collapse
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.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kok EMA, Hogan JA, Piersma T. Experimental tests of a seasonally changing visual preference for habitat in a long‐distance migratory shorebird. Ethology 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/eth.13036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Eva M. A. Kok
- Department of Coastal Systems NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research and Utrecht University Den Burg The Netherlands
- Conservation Ecology Group Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES) University of Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Jerry A. Hogan
- Department of Psychology University of Toronto Toronto ON Canada
| | - Theunis Piersma
- Department of Coastal Systems NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research and Utrecht University Den Burg The Netherlands
- Conservation Ecology Group Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES) University of Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
- Rudi Drent Chair in Global Flyway Ecology Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES) University of Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Bouché NF, McConway K. Melatonin Levels and Low-Frequency Magnetic Fields in Humans and Rats: New Insights From a Bayesian Logistic Regression. Bioelectromagnetics 2019; 40:539-552. [PMID: 31564068 DOI: 10.1002/bem.22218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The present analysis revisits the impact of extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF) on melatonin (MLT) levels in human and rat subjects using both a parametric and non-parametric approach. In this analysis, we use 62 studies from review articles. The parametric approach consists of a Bayesian logistic regression (LR) analysis and the non-parametric approach consists of a Support Vector analysis, both of which are robust against spurious/false results. Both approaches reveal a unique well-ordered pattern, and show that human and rat studies are consistent with each other once the MF strength is restricted to cover the same range (with B ≲ 50 μT). In addition, the data reveal that chronic exposure (longer than ∼22 days) to ELF-MF appears to decrease MLT levels only when the MF strength is below a threshold of ~30 μT ( log B thr [ μ T ] = 1 . 4 - 0 . 4 + 0 . 7 ), i.e., when the man-made ELF-MF intensity is below that of the static geomagnetic field. Studies reporting an association between ELF-MF and changes to MLT levels and the opposite (no association with ELF-MF) can be reconciled under a single framework. Bioelectromagnetics. 2019;40:539-552. © 2019 Bioelectromagnetics Society.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas F Bouché
- Univ Lyon, Univ Lyon1, ENS de Lyon, CNRS, Centre de Recherche en Astrophysique de Lyon UMR5574, Saint-Genis-Laval, France
| | - Kevin McConway
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, The Open University, Milton Keys, UK
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kerpal C, Richert S, Storey JG, Pillai S, Liddell PA, Gust D, Mackenzie SR, Hore PJ, Timmel CR. Chemical compass behaviour at microtesla magnetic fields strengthens the radical pair hypothesis of avian magnetoreception. Nat Commun 2019; 10:3707. [PMID: 31420558 PMCID: PMC6697675 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-11655-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The fact that many animals, including migratory birds, use the Earth's magnetic field for orientation and compass-navigation is fascinating and puzzling in equal measure. The physical origin of these phenomena has not yet been fully understood, but arguably the most likely hypothesis is based on the radical pair mechanism (RPM). Whilst the theoretical framework of the RPM is well-established, most experimental investigations have been conducted at fields several orders of magnitude stronger than the Earth's. Here we use transient absorption spectroscopy to demonstrate a pronounced orientation-dependence of the magnetic field response of a molecular triad system in the field region relevant to avian magnetoreception. The chemical compass response exhibits the properties of an inclination compass as found in migratory birds. The results underline the feasibility of a radical pair based avian compass and also provide further guidelines for the design and operation of exploitable chemical compass systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Kerpal
- Centre for Advanced Electron Spin Resonance (CÆSR), Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QR, UK
| | - Sabine Richert
- Centre for Advanced Electron Spin Resonance (CÆSR), Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QR, UK
| | - Jonathan G Storey
- Centre for Advanced Electron Spin Resonance (CÆSR), Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QR, UK
| | - Smitha Pillai
- School of Molecular Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85281, USA
| | - Paul A Liddell
- School of Molecular Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85281, USA
| | - Devens Gust
- School of Molecular Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85281, USA
| | - Stuart R Mackenzie
- Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QZ, UK
| | - P J Hore
- Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QZ, UK
| | - Christiane R Timmel
- Centre for Advanced Electron Spin Resonance (CÆSR), Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QR, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Perspectives of RAS and RHEB GTPase Signaling Pathways in Regenerating Brain Neurons. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19124052. [PMID: 30558189 PMCID: PMC6321366 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19124052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular activation of RAS GTPases into the GTP-binding “ON” state is a key switch for regulating brain functions. Molecular protein structural elements of rat sarcoma (RAS) and RAS homolog protein enriched in brain (RHEB) GTPases involved in this switch are discussed including their subcellular membrane localization for triggering specific signaling pathways resulting in regulation of synaptic connectivity, axonal growth, differentiation, migration, cytoskeletal dynamics, neural protection, and apoptosis. A beneficial role of neuronal H-RAS activity is suggested from cellular and animal models of neurodegenerative diseases. Recent experiments on optogenetic regulation offer insights into the spatiotemporal aspects controlling RAS/mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) or phosphoinositide-3 kinase (PI3K) pathways. As optogenetic manipulation of cellular signaling in deep brain regions critically requires penetration of light through large distances of absorbing tissue, we discuss magnetic guidance of re-growing axons as a complementary approach. In Parkinson’s disease, dopaminergic neuronal cell bodies degenerate in the substantia nigra. Current human trials of stem cell-derived dopaminergic neurons must take into account the inability of neuronal axons navigating over a large distance from the grafted site into striatal target regions. Grafting dopaminergic precursor neurons directly into the degenerating substantia nigra is discussed as a novel concept aiming to guide axonal growth by activating GTPase signaling through protein-functionalized intracellular magnetic nanoparticles responding to external magnets.
Collapse
|
19
|
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.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Igor Goychuk
- Institute of Physics and Astronomy, University of Potsdam, Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 24/25, 14476 Potsdam-Golm, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Monzel C, Vicario C, Piehler J, Coppey M, Dahan M. Magnetic control of cellular processes using biofunctional nanoparticles. Chem Sci 2017; 8:7330-7338. [PMID: 29163884 PMCID: PMC5672790 DOI: 10.1039/c7sc01462g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Remote control of cellular functions is a key challenge in biomedical research. Only a few tools are currently capable of manipulating cellular events at distance, at spatial and temporal scales matching their naturally active range. A promising approach, often referred to as 'magnetogenetics', is based on the use of magnetic fields, in conjunction with targeted biofunctional magnetic nanoparticles. By triggering molecular stimuli via mechanical, thermal or biochemical perturbations, magnetic actuation constitutes a highly versatile tool with numerous applications in fundamental research as well as exciting prospects in nano- and regenerative medicine. Here, we highlight recent studies, comment on the advancement of magnetic manipulation, and discuss remaining challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia Monzel
- Institut Curie , PSL Research University , Laboratoire Physico Chimie , CNRS UMR168 , UPMC , F-75005 Paris , France .
| | - Chiara Vicario
- Institut Curie , PSL Research University , Laboratoire Physico Chimie , CNRS UMR168 , UPMC , F-75005 Paris , France .
| | - Jacob Piehler
- University of Osnabrück , Department of Biology/Chemistry , Division of Biophysics , 49076 Osnabrück , Germany
| | - Mathieu Coppey
- Institut Curie , PSL Research University , Laboratoire Physico Chimie , CNRS UMR168 , UPMC , F-75005 Paris , France .
| | - Maxime Dahan
- Institut Curie , PSL Research University , Laboratoire Physico Chimie , CNRS UMR168 , UPMC , F-75005 Paris , France .
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Wiltschko R, Ahmad M, Nießner C, Gehring D, Wiltschko W. Light-dependent magnetoreception in birds: the crucial step occurs in the dark. J R Soc Interface 2017; 13:rsif.2015.1010. [PMID: 27146685 PMCID: PMC4892254 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2015.1010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Accepted: 04/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The Radical Pair Model proposes that the avian magnetic compass is based on spin-chemical processes: since the ratio between the two spin states singlet and triplet of radical pairs depends on their alignment in the magnetic field, it can provide information on magnetic directions. Cryptochromes, blue light-absorbing flavoproteins, with flavin adenine dinucleotide as chromophore, are suggested as molecules forming the radical pairs underlying magnetoreception. When activated by light, cryptochromes undergo a redox cycle, in the course of which radical pairs are generated during photo-reduction as well as during light-independent re-oxidation. This raised the question as to which radical pair is crucial for mediating magnetic directions. Here, we present the results from behavioural experiments with intermittent light and magnetic field pulses that clearly show that magnetoreception is possible in the dark interval, pointing to the radical pair formed during flavin re-oxidation. This differs from the mechanism considered for cryptochrome signalling the presence of light and rules out most current models of an avian magnetic compass based on the radical pair generated during photo-reduction. Using the radical pair formed during re-oxidation may represent a specific adaptation of the avian magnetic compass.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roswitha Wiltschko
- FB Biowissenschaften, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Straße 13, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Margaret Ahmad
- Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Casier 156, 4 Place Jussieu, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Christine Nießner
- FB Biowissenschaften, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Straße 13, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Dennis Gehring
- FB Biowissenschaften, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Straße 13, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Wiltschko
- FB Biowissenschaften, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Straße 13, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Kavokin K. Can a hybrid chemical-ferromagnetic model of the avian compass explain its outstanding sensitivity to magnetic noise? PLoS One 2017; 12:e0173887. [PMID: 28296939 PMCID: PMC5352016 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0173887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2016] [Accepted: 02/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
While many properties of the magnetic compass of migratory birds are satisfactory explained within the chemical model of magnetoreception, its extreme sensitivity to radio-frequency magnetic fields remains a mystery. Apparently, this difficulty could be overcome if the magnetoreceptor model were augmented with a magnetite nanoparticle, which would amplify the magnetic field at the position of the magneto-sensitive cryptochrome molecule. However, comparison of the radio-frequency power used in the experiment with intrinsic magnetization noise of such a particle, estimated from the theory of fluctuations, shows that the required sensitivity cannot be reached with realistic parameters of iron-oxide nanocrystals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kirill Kavokin
- Spin Optics Laboratory, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
- I.M.Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry RAS, St. Petersburg, Russia
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Spontaneous magnetic alignment behaviour in free-living lizards. THE SCIENCE OF NATURE - NATURWISSENSCHAFTEN 2017; 104:13. [DOI: 10.1007/s00114-017-1439-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2016] [Revised: 01/30/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
26
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Martínez-Bretón JL, Mendoza B, Miranda-Anaya M, Durán P, Flores-Chávez PL. Artificial reproduction of magnetic fields produced by a natural geomagnetic storm increases systolic blood pressure in rats. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2016; 60:1753-1760. [PMID: 27094916 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-016-1164-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2015] [Revised: 03/23/2016] [Accepted: 03/25/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The incidence of geomagnetic storms may be associated with changes in circulatory physiology. The way in which the natural variations of the geomagnetic field due to solar activity affects the blood pressure are poorly understood and require further study in controlled experimental designs in animal models. In the present study, we tested whether the systolic arterial pressure (AP) in adult rats is affected by simulated magnetic fields resembling the natural changes of a geomagnetic storm. We exposed adult rats to a linear magnetic profile that simulates the average changes associated to some well-known geomagnetic storm phases: the sudden commencement and principal phase. Magnetic stimulus was provided by a coil inductor and regulated by a microcontroller. The experiments were conducted in the electromagnetically isolated environment of a semi-anechoic chamber. After exposure, AP was determined with a non-invasive method through the pulse on the rat's tail. Animals were used as their own control. Our results indicate that there was no statistically significant effect in AP when the artificial profile was applied, neither in the sudden commencement nor in the principal phases. However, during the experimental period, a natural geomagnetic storm occurred, and we did observe statistically significant AP increase during the sudden commencement phase. Furthermore, when this storm phase was artificially replicated with a non-linear profile, we noticed a 7 to 9 % increase of the rats' AP in relation to a reference value. We suggested that the changes in the geomagnetic field associated with a geomagnetic storm in its first day could produce a measurable and reproducible physiological response in AP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J L Martínez-Bretón
- Posgrado en Ciencias de la Tierra, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, México, D.F, México.
| | - B Mendoza
- Instituto de Geofísica, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, México, D.F, México
| | - M Miranda-Anaya
- Unidad Multidisciplinaria de Docencia e Investigación, Facultad de Ciencias Campus Juriquilla, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, México, D.F, México
| | - P Durán
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias, UNAM, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, México, D.F, México
| | - P L Flores-Chávez
- Departamento de Instrumentación Electromecánica, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, Tlalpan, D.F, 14080, México
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Light effects on the multicellular magnetotactic prokaryote ‘Candidatus Magnetoglobus multicellularis’ are cancelled by radiofrequency fields: the involvement of radical pair mechanisms. Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek 2016; 110:177-186. [DOI: 10.1007/s10482-016-0788-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 10/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
29
|
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: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [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.
Collapse
|
30
|
Abstract
This is an analysis of how magnetic fields affect biological molecules and cells. It was prompted by a series of prominent reports regarding magnetism in biological systems. The first claims to have identified a protein complex that acts like a compass needle to guide magnetic orientation in animals (Qin et al., 2016). Two other articles report magnetic control of membrane conductance by attaching ferritin to an ion channel protein and then tugging the ferritin or heating it with a magnetic field (Stanley et al., 2015; Wheeler et al., 2016). Here I argue that these claims conflict with basic laws of physics. The discrepancies are large: from 5 to 10 log units. If the reported phenomena do in fact occur, they must have causes entirely different from the ones proposed by the authors. The paramagnetic nature of protein complexes is found to seriously limit their utility for engineering magnetically sensitive cells. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.17210.001 How biological systems interact with magnetic fields is of great interest both from a basic science perspective and for technological applications. Certain animal species can sense the Earth’s magnetic field for the purposes of navigation. How that compass sense works is perhaps the last true mystery of sensory biology. If we knew how the magnetic field affects the activity of nerve cells, we could harness that mechanism to create new biomedical tools. One technological goal is to genetically engineer specific cells in the brain or elsewhere so their activity can be controlled using an external magnet. This dream has been called “magnetogenetics”. In recent months a string of reports claimed to have solved both the scientific and the technological challenges of magnetogenetics. They all involved the discovery or the engineering of protein molecules that are sensitive to magnetic fields. Markus Meister has now checked whether those claims were consistent with well-established physical laws. For each case, Meister calculated how strongly the protein in question would link magnetic fields to cellular activity. The results show that the predicted effects are too weak to account for the reported measurements by huge margins: between five and ten orders of magnitude. It therefore appears that none of these reports have hit on a solution to magnetogenetics. All of the proposed proteins use iron atoms to couple to the magnetic field, but Meister concludes that these proteins contain far too few iron atoms. How safe is that conclusion? There has been enormous technological interest in making tiny magnets; for example, to design the ever-denser data storage drives inside computers. Hence the magnetism of small clusters of atoms is exceedingly well understood. If any of the biological reports of magnetogenetics turned out correct, they would force a revolutionary rethinking of basic physics. With the recognition that magnetogenetics remains unsolved, and that different approaches are needed, Meister hopes that other investigators will feel motivated to continue innovating in this area. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.17210.002
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Markus Meister
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, United States
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
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
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Schwarze S, Schneider NL, Reichl T, Dreyer D, Lefeldt N, Engels S, Baker N, Hore PJ, Mouritsen H. Weak Broadband Electromagnetic Fields are More Disruptive to Magnetic Compass Orientation in a Night-Migratory Songbird (Erithacus rubecula) than Strong Narrow-Band Fields. Front Behav Neurosci 2016; 10:55. [PMID: 27047356 PMCID: PMC4801848 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2016.00055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2015] [Accepted: 03/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Magnetic compass orientation in night-migratory songbirds is embedded in the visual system and seems to be based on a light-dependent radical pair mechanism. Recent findings suggest that both broadband electromagnetic fields ranging from ~2 kHz to ~9 MHz and narrow-band fields at the so-called Larmor frequency for a free electron in the Earth's magnetic field can disrupt this mechanism. However, due to local magnetic fields generated by nuclear spins, effects specific to the Larmor frequency are difficult to understand considering that the primary sensory molecule should be organic and probably a protein. We therefore constructed a purpose-built laboratory and tested the orientation capabilities of European robins in an electromagnetically silent environment, under the specific influence of four different oscillating narrow-band electromagnetic fields, at the Larmor frequency, double the Larmor frequency, 1.315 MHz or 50 Hz, and in the presence of broadband electromagnetic noise covering the range from ~2 kHz to ~9 MHz. Our results indicated that the magnetic compass orientation of European robins could not be disrupted by any of the relatively strong narrow-band electromagnetic fields employed here, but that the weak broadband field very efficiently disrupted their orientation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Schwarze
- Institut für Biologie und Umweltwissenschaften, Carl von Ossietzky Universität OldenburgOldenburg, Germany
- Research Centre for Neurosensory Sciences, University of OldenburgOldenburg, Germany
| | - Nils-Lasse Schneider
- Institut für Biologie und Umweltwissenschaften, Carl von Ossietzky Universität OldenburgOldenburg, Germany
- Research Centre for Neurosensory Sciences, University of OldenburgOldenburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Reichl
- Institut für Biologie und Umweltwissenschaften, Carl von Ossietzky Universität OldenburgOldenburg, Germany
- Research Centre for Neurosensory Sciences, University of OldenburgOldenburg, Germany
| | - David Dreyer
- Institut für Biologie und Umweltwissenschaften, Carl von Ossietzky Universität OldenburgOldenburg, Germany
- Research Centre for Neurosensory Sciences, University of OldenburgOldenburg, Germany
| | - Nele Lefeldt
- Institut für Biologie und Umweltwissenschaften, Carl von Ossietzky Universität OldenburgOldenburg, Germany
- Research Centre for Neurosensory Sciences, University of OldenburgOldenburg, Germany
| | - Svenja Engels
- Institut für Biologie und Umweltwissenschaften, Carl von Ossietzky Universität OldenburgOldenburg, Germany
- Research Centre for Neurosensory Sciences, University of OldenburgOldenburg, Germany
| | - Neville Baker
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Physical and Theoretical Chemistry LaboratoryOxford, UK
| | - P. J. Hore
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Physical and Theoretical Chemistry LaboratoryOxford, UK
| | - Henrik Mouritsen
- Institut für Biologie und Umweltwissenschaften, Carl von Ossietzky Universität OldenburgOldenburg, Germany
- Research Centre for Neurosensory Sciences, University of OldenburgOldenburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Bolte P, Bleibaum F, Einwich A, Günther A, Liedvogel M, Heyers D, Depping A, Wöhlbrand L, Rabus R, Janssen‐Bienhold U, Mouritsen H. Localisation of the Putative Magnetoreceptive Protein Cryptochrome 1b in the Retinae of Migratory Birds and Homing Pigeons. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0147819. [PMID: 26953791 PMCID: PMC4783096 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0147819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2015] [Accepted: 01/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptochromes are ubiquitously expressed in various animal tissues including the retina. Some cryptochromes are involved in regulating circadian activity. Cryptochrome proteins have also been suggested to mediate the primary mechanism in light-dependent magnetic compass orientation in birds. Cryptochrome 1b (Cry1b) exhibits a unique carboxy terminus exclusively found in birds so far, which might be indicative for a specialised function. Cryptochrome 1a (Cry1a) is so far the only cryptochrome protein that has been localised to specific cell types within the retina of migratory birds. Here we show that Cry1b, an alternative splice variant of Cry1a, is also expressed in the retina of migratory birds, but it is primarily located in other cell types than Cry1a. This could suggest different functions for the two splice products. Using diagnostic bird-specific antibodies (that allow for a precise discrimination between both proteins), we show that Cry1b protein is found in the retinae of migratory European robins (Erithacus rubecula), migratory Northern Wheatears (Oenanthe oenanthe) and pigeons (Columba livia). In all three species, retinal Cry1b is localised in cell types which have been discussed as potentially well suited locations for magnetoreception: Cry1b is observed in the cytosol of ganglion cells, displaced ganglion cells, and in photoreceptor inner segments. The cytosolic rather than nucleic location of Cry1b in the retina reported here speaks against a circadian clock regulatory function of Cry1b and it allows for the possible involvement of Cry1b in a radical-pair-based magnetoreception mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Petra Bolte
- Institute for Biology and Environmental Sciences, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Research Centre for Neurosensory Sciences, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Florian Bleibaum
- Institute for Biology and Environmental Sciences, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Research Centre for Neurosensory Sciences, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Angelika Einwich
- Institute for Biology and Environmental Sciences, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Research Centre for Neurosensory Sciences, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Anja Günther
- Institute for Biology and Environmental Sciences, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Research Centre for Neurosensory Sciences, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | | | - Dominik Heyers
- Institute for Biology and Environmental Sciences, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Research Centre for Neurosensory Sciences, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Anne Depping
- Institute for Biology and Environmental Sciences, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Research Centre for Neurosensory Sciences, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Lars Wöhlbrand
- Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment, Carl-von-Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Ralf Rabus
- Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment, Carl-von-Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
| | | | - Henrik Mouritsen
- Institute for Biology and Environmental Sciences, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Research Centre for Neurosensory Sciences, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Affiliation(s)
- Henrik Mouritsen
- Institut für Biologie und Umweltwissenschaften, Carl-von-Ossietzky-Universität Oldenburg, D-26111 Oldenburg, Germany; ,
- Research Center Neurosensory Sciences, University of Oldenburg, D-26111 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Dominik Heyers
- Institut für Biologie und Umweltwissenschaften, Carl-von-Ossietzky-Universität Oldenburg, D-26111 Oldenburg, Germany; ,
- Research Center Neurosensory Sciences, University of Oldenburg, D-26111 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Onur Güntürkün
- Department of Biopsychology, Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, Ruhr-University Bochum, D-44780 Bochum, Germany;
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Kelber JB, Panjwani NA, Wu D, Gómez-Bombarelli R, Lovett BW, Morton JJL, Anderson HL. Synthesis and investigation of donor-porphyrin-acceptor triads with long-lived photo-induced charge-separate states. Chem Sci 2015; 6:6468-6481. [PMID: 30090266 PMCID: PMC6054115 DOI: 10.1039/c5sc01830g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2015] [Accepted: 07/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Two donor-porphyrin-acceptor triads have been synthesized using a versatile Suzuki-coupling route. This synthetic strategy allows the powerful donor tetraalkylphenylenediamine (TAPD) to be introduced into tetraarylporphyrin-based triads without protection. The thermodynamics and kinetics of electron transfer in the new triads are compared with a previously reported octaalkyldiphenyl-porphyrin triad exhibiting a long-lived spin-polarized charge separate state (CSS), from theoretical and experimental perspectives, in both fluid solution and in a frozen solvent glass. We show that the less favorable oxidation potential of the tetraaryl-porphyrin core can be offset by using C60 , as a better electron-acceptor than triptycenenaphthoquinone (TNQ). The C60 -porphyrin-TAPD triad gives a spin-polarized charge-separated state that can be observed by EPR-spectroscopy, with a mean lifetime of 16 ms at 10 K, which is longer than in the previously reported TNQ-porphyrin-TAPD triad, following the predicted trend from calculated charge-recombination rates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julien B Kelber
- Oxford University , Chemistry Research Laboratory , 12 Mansfield Road , OX1 3TA , Oxford , UK .
- University College London , London Centre for Nanotechnology , Gower Place , WC1E 6BT , London , UK .
| | - Naitik A Panjwani
- University College London , London Centre for Nanotechnology , Gower Place , WC1E 6BT , London , UK .
| | - Di Wu
- Oxford University , Chemistry Research Laboratory , 12 Mansfield Road , OX1 3TA , Oxford , UK .
| | - Rafael Gómez-Bombarelli
- Harvard University , Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology , 12 Oxford St. 02138 , Cambridge , MA , USA
| | - Brendon W Lovett
- University of St Andrews , SUPA , School of Physics and Astronomy , KY16 9SS , St Andrews , UK .
| | - John J L Morton
- University College London , London Centre for Nanotechnology , Gower Place , WC1E 6BT , London , UK .
| | - Harry L Anderson
- Oxford University , Chemistry Research Laboratory , 12 Mansfield Road , OX1 3TA , Oxford , UK .
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
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.
Collapse
|
38
|
de Azevedo LV, Acosta-Avalos D. Photokinesis is magnetic field dependent in the multicellular magnetotactic prokaryote Candidatus Magnetoglobus multicellularis. Antonie van Leeuwenhoek 2015; 108:579-85. [PMID: 26108495 DOI: 10.1007/s10482-015-0513-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2015] [Accepted: 06/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Candidatus Magnetoglobus multicellularis is a spherical, multicellular, magnetotactic prokaryote (MMP) composed of 10-40 genetically-identical, Gram-negative cells. It is known that monochromatic light of low intensity influences its average swimming velocity, being higher for red light (628 nm) and lower for green light (517 nm). In this study, we determined the effect of light of different wavelengths and intensities on the swimming velocity of Ca. Magnetoglobus multicellularis under different magnetic field intensities. The swimming velocities of several organisms exposed to blue light (469 nm), green light (517 nm) and red light (628 nm) with intensities ranging from 0.36 to 3.68 Wm(-2) were recorded under magnetic field intensities ranging from 0.26 to 1.47 Oe. Our results showed that MMPs exposed to green light display consistently lower average swimming velocities compared to other wavelengths of light. We also show for the first time that photokinesis in Ca. Magnetoglobus multicellularis is dependent on the magnetic field being applied. The relationship between light wavelength and intensity and magnetic field strength and swimming velocity in this MMP is therefore complex. Although the mechanism for the observed behaviour is not completely understood, a flavin-containing chromophore may be involved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lyvia Vidinho de Azevedo
- Centro Brasileiro de Pesquisas Fisicas (CBPF), Rua Xavier Sigaud 150, Urca, RJ, 22250-180, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Chervyakov AV, Chernyavsky AY, Sinitsyn DO, Piradov MA. Possible Mechanisms Underlying the Therapeutic Effects of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Front Hum Neurosci 2015; 9:303. [PMID: 26136672 PMCID: PMC4468834 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2015.00303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 190] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2014] [Accepted: 05/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an effective method used to diagnose and treat many neurological disorders. Although repetitive TMS (rTMS) has been used to treat a variety of serious pathological conditions including stroke, depression, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, pain, and migraines, the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the effects of long-term TMS remain unclear. In the present review, the effects of rTMS on neurotransmitters and synaptic plasticity are described, including the classic interpretations of TMS effects on synaptic plasticity via long-term potentiation and long-term depression. We also discuss the effects of rTMS on the genetic apparatus of neurons, glial cells, and the prevention of neuronal death. The neurotrophic effects of rTMS on dendritic growth and sprouting and neurotrophic factors are described, including change in brain-derived neurotrophic factor concentration under the influence of rTMS. Also, non-classical effects of TMS related to biophysical effects of magnetic fields are described, including the quantum effects, the magnetic spin effects, genetic magnetoreception, the macromolecular effects of TMS, and the electromagnetic theory of consciousness. Finally, we discuss possible interpretations of TMS effects according to dynamical systems theory. Evidence suggests that a rTMS-induced magnetic field should be considered a separate physical factor that can be impactful at the subatomic level and that rTMS is capable of significantly altering the reactivity of molecules (radicals). It is thought that these factors underlie the therapeutic benefits of therapy with TMS. Future research on these mechanisms will be instrumental to the development of more powerful and reliable TMS treatment protocols.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrey Yu Chernyavsky
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Russian Academy of Sciences , Moscow , Russia ; Faculty of Computational Mathematics and Cybernetics, Moscow State University , Moscow , Russia
| | - Dmitry O Sinitsyn
- Research Center of Neurology , Moscow , Russia ; Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences , Moscow , Russia
| | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Chervyakov AV, Chernyavsky AY, Sinitsyn DO, Piradov MA. Possible Mechanisms Underlying the Therapeutic Effects of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Front Hum Neurosci 2015. [PMID: 26136672 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2015.00303.e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an effective method used to diagnose and treat many neurological disorders. Although repetitive TMS (rTMS) has been used to treat a variety of serious pathological conditions including stroke, depression, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, pain, and migraines, the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the effects of long-term TMS remain unclear. In the present review, the effects of rTMS on neurotransmitters and synaptic plasticity are described, including the classic interpretations of TMS effects on synaptic plasticity via long-term potentiation and long-term depression. We also discuss the effects of rTMS on the genetic apparatus of neurons, glial cells, and the prevention of neuronal death. The neurotrophic effects of rTMS on dendritic growth and sprouting and neurotrophic factors are described, including change in brain-derived neurotrophic factor concentration under the influence of rTMS. Also, non-classical effects of TMS related to biophysical effects of magnetic fields are described, including the quantum effects, the magnetic spin effects, genetic magnetoreception, the macromolecular effects of TMS, and the electromagnetic theory of consciousness. Finally, we discuss possible interpretations of TMS effects according to dynamical systems theory. Evidence suggests that a rTMS-induced magnetic field should be considered a separate physical factor that can be impactful at the subatomic level and that rTMS is capable of significantly altering the reactivity of molecules (radicals). It is thought that these factors underlie the therapeutic benefits of therapy with TMS. Future research on these mechanisms will be instrumental to the development of more powerful and reliable TMS treatment protocols.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrey Yu Chernyavsky
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Russian Academy of Sciences , Moscow , Russia ; Faculty of Computational Mathematics and Cybernetics, Moscow State University , Moscow , Russia
| | - Dmitry O Sinitsyn
- Research Center of Neurology , Moscow , Russia ; Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences , Moscow , Russia
| | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Jan L, Fefer D, Košmelj K, Gaberščik A, Jerman I. Geomagnetic and strong static magnetic field effects on growth and chlorophyllafluorescence inLemna minor. Bioelectromagnetics 2015; 36:190-203. [DOI: 10.1002/bem.21898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2014] [Accepted: 12/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Dušan Fefer
- Laboratory for Process-Control Technique; Acoustics and Magnetics; Faculty of Electrical Engineering; University of Ljubljana; Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Katarina Košmelj
- Department of Agronomy; Biotechnical Faculty; University of Ljubljana; Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Alenka Gaberščik
- Department of Biology; Biotechnical Faculty; University of Ljubljana; Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Igor Jerman
- Bion; Institute for Bioelectromagnetics and New Biology; Ljubljana Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Guerra PA, Reppert SM. Sensory basis of lepidopteran migration: focus on the monarch butterfly. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2015; 34:20-8. [PMID: 25625216 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2015.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2014] [Revised: 01/08/2015] [Accepted: 01/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
In response to seasonal habitats, migratory lepidopterans, exemplified by the monarch butterfly, have evolved migration to deal with dynamic conditions. During migration, monarchs use orientation mechanisms, exploiting a time-compensated sun compass and a light-sensitive inclination magnetic compass to facilitate fall migration south. The sun compass is bidirectional with overwintering coldness triggering the change in orientation direction for remigration northward in the spring. The timing of the remigration and milkweed emergence in the southern US have co-evolved for propagation of the migration. Current research is uncovering the anatomical and molecular substrates that underlie migratory-relevant sensory mechanisms with the antennae being critical components. Orientation mechanisms may be detrimentally affected by environmental factors such as climate change and sensory interference from human-generated sources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick A Guerra
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 364 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Steven M Reppert
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 364 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
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]
|
46
|
Gonçalves CGB, Medeiros C, Abraçado LG, Acosta-Avalos D. Magnetic material in the ocellar spot and lateral line of tomtates Haemulon aurolineatum. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2014; 85:938-943. [PMID: 24974732 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.12449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2013] [Accepted: 05/15/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The presence of magnetic material in tissues of lateral line and ocellar spot of tomtates Haemulon aurolineatum is shown using the ferromagnetic resonance technique. For the first time magnetic material is reported in the ocellar spot. The magnetic material detected in these structures of H. aurolineatum suggests that this species could use magnetic orientation during its nocturnal foraging, and the relevance and role of this material with respect to schooling movements is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C G B Gonçalves
- Departamento de Oceanografia, Centro de Tecnologia e Geociências, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE), Av. Arquitetura S/N, Cidade Universitária, 50740-550, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Clausen J, Guerreschi GG, Tiersch M, Briegel HJ. Multiple re-encounter approach to radical pair reactions and the role of nonlinear master equations. J Chem Phys 2014; 141:054107. [DOI: 10.1063/1.4891470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
|
48
|
Kavokin K, Chernetsov N, Pakhomov A, Bojarinova J, Kobylkov D, Namozov B. Magnetic orientation of garden warblers (Sylvia borin) under 1.4 MHz radiofrequency magnetic field. J R Soc Interface 2014; 11:20140451. [PMID: 24942848 PMCID: PMC4208380 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2014.0451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2014] [Accepted: 05/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We report on the experiments on orientation of a migratory songbird, the garden warbler (Sylvia borin), during the autumn migration period on the Courish Spit, Eastern Baltics. Birds in experimental cages, deprived of visual information, showed the seasonally appropriate direction of intended flight with respect to the magnetic meridian. Weak radiofrequency (RF) magnetic field (190 nT at 1.4 MHz) disrupted this orientation ability. These results may be considered as an independent replication of earlier experiments, performed by the group of R. and W. Wiltschko with European robins (Erithacus rubecula). Confirmed outstanding sensitivity of the birds' magnetic compass to RF fields in the lower megahertz range demands for a revision of one of the mainstream theories of magnetoreception, the radical-pair model of birds' magnetic compass.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kirill Kavokin
- St Petersburg State University, 7-9 Universitetskaya Emb., St Petersburg 199034, Russia A.F. Ioffe Physical Technical Institute, 26 Polytechnicheskaya, St Petersburg 194021, Russia
| | - Nikita Chernetsov
- St Petersburg State University, 7-9 Universitetskaya Emb., St Petersburg 199034, Russia Biological Station Rybachy, Zoological Institute, 238535 Rybachy, Kaliningrad Region, Russia
| | - Alexander Pakhomov
- Biological Station Rybachy, Zoological Institute, 238535 Rybachy, Kaliningrad Region, Russia Moscow State University, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | - Julia Bojarinova
- St Petersburg State University, 7-9 Universitetskaya Emb., St Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Dmitry Kobylkov
- St Petersburg State University, 7-9 Universitetskaya Emb., St Petersburg 199034, Russia Biological Station Rybachy, Zoological Institute, 238535 Rybachy, Kaliningrad Region, Russia
| | - Barot Namozov
- A.F. Ioffe Physical Technical Institute, 26 Polytechnicheskaya, St Petersburg 194021, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Wiltschko R, Wiltschko W. Sensing magnetic directions in birds: radical pair processes involving cryptochrome. BIOSENSORS-BASEL 2014; 4:221-42. [PMID: 25587420 PMCID: PMC4264356 DOI: 10.3390/bios4030221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2014] [Revised: 07/14/2014] [Accepted: 07/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Birds can use the geomagnetic field for compass orientation. Behavioral experiments, mostly with migrating passerines, revealed three characteristics of the avian magnetic compass: (1) it works spontaneously only in a narrow functional window around the intensity of the ambient magnetic field, but can adapt to other intensities, (2) it is an “inclination compass”, not based on the polarity of the magnetic field, but the axial course of the field lines, and (3) it requires short-wavelength light from UV to 565 nm Green. The Radical Pair-Model of magnetoreception can explain these properties by proposing spin-chemical processes in photopigments as underlying mechanism. Applying radio frequency fields, a diagnostic tool for radical pair processes, supports an involvement of a radical pair mechanism in avian magnetoreception: added to the geomagnetic field, they disrupted orientation, presumably by interfering with the receptive processes. Cryptochromes have been suggested as receptor molecules. Cry1a is found in the eyes of birds, where it is located at the membranes of the disks in the outer segments of the UV-cones in chickens and robins. Immuno-histochemical studies show that it is activated by the wavelengths of light that allow magnetic compass orientation in birds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roswitha Wiltschko
- Fachbereich Biowissenschaften, J.W. Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, Max von Laue Straße 13, D-60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; E-Mail:
| | - Wolfgang Wiltschko
- Fachbereich Biowissenschaften, J.W. Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, Max von Laue Straße 13, D-60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; E-Mail:
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Fedele G, Green EW, Rosato E, Kyriacou CP. An electromagnetic field disrupts negative geotaxis in Drosophila via a CRY-dependent pathway. Nat Commun 2014; 5:4391. [PMID: 25019586 PMCID: PMC4104433 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms5391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2014] [Accepted: 06/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Many higher animals have evolved the ability to use the Earth’s magnetic field, particularly for orientation. Drosophila melanogaster also respond to electromagnetic fields (EMFs), although the reported effects are quite modest. Here we report that negative geotaxis in flies, scored as climbing, is disrupted by a static EMF, and this is mediated by cryptochrome (CRY), the blue-light circadian photoreceptor. CRYs may sense EMFs via formation of radical pairs of electrons requiring photoactivation of flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) bound near a triad of Trp residues, but mutation of the terminal Trp in the triad maintains EMF responsiveness in climbing. In contrast, deletion of the CRY C terminus disrupts EMF responses, indicating that it plays an important signalling role. CRY expression in a subset of clock neurons, or the photoreceptors, or the antennae, is sufficient to mediate negative geotaxis and EMF sensitivity. Climbing therefore provides a robust and reliable phenotype for studying EMF responses in Drosophila. The earth’s electromagnetic field has a modest effect on the behaviour of Drosophila melanogaster. Here, Fedele et al. use an assessment of climbing behaviour to describe how the blue-light circadian photoreceptor cryptochrome mediates a negative movement response to gravity in flies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Fedele
- Department of Genetics, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Edward W Green
- Department of Genetics, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Ezio Rosato
- Department of Genetics, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|