Spin biochemistry modulates reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by radio frequency magnetic fields

Synergistic Cellular Responses Conferred by Concurrent Optical and Magnetic Stimulation Are Attenuated by Simultaneous Exposure to Streptomycin: An Antibiotic Dilemma

Concurrent optical and magnetic stimulation (COMS) combines extremely low-frequency electromagnetic and light exposure for enhanced wound healing. We investigated the potential mechanistic synergism between the magnetic and light components of COMS by comparing their individual and combined cellular responses. Lone magnetic field exposure produced greater enhancements in cell proliferation than light alone, yet the combined effects of magnetic fields and light were supra-additive of the individual responses. Reactive oxygen species were incrementally reduced by exposure to light, magnetics fields, and their combination, wherein statistical significance was only achieved by the combined COMS modality. By contrast, ATP production was most greatly enhanced by magnetic exposure in combination with light, indicating that mitochondrial respiratory efficiency was improved by the combination of magnetic fields plus light. Protein expression pertaining to cell proliferation was preferentially enhanced by the COMS modality, as were the protein levels of the TRPC1 cation channel that had been previously implicated as part of a calcium-mitochondrial signaling axis invoked by electromagnetic exposure and necessary for proliferation. These results indicate that light facilitates functional synergism with magnetic fields that ultimately impinge on mitochondria-dependent developmental responses. Aminoglycoside antibiotics (AGAs) have been previously shown to inhibit TRPC1-mediated magnetotransduction, whereas their influence over photomodulation has not been explored. Streptomycin applied during exposure to light, magnetic fields, or COMS reduced their respective proliferation enhancements, whereas streptomycin added after the exposure did not. Magnetic field exposure and the COMS modality were capable of partially overcoming the antagonism of proliferation produced by streptomycin treatment, whereas light alone was not. The antagonism of photon-electromagnetic effects by streptomycin implicates TRPC1-mediated calcium entry in both magnetotransduction and photomodulation. Avoiding the prophylactic use of AGAs during COMS therapy will be crucial for maintaining clinical efficacy and is a common concern in most other electromagnetic regenerative paradigms.

Therapeutic nuclear magnetic resonance and intermittent hypoxia trigger time dependent on/off effects in circadian clocks and confirm a central role of superoxide in cellular magnetic field effects

Cellular magnetic field effects are assumed to base on coherent singlet-triplet interconversion of radical pairs that are sensitive to applied radiofrequency (RF) and weak magnetic fields (WEMFs), known as radical pair mechanism (RPM). As a leading model, the RPM explains how quantum effects can influence biochemical and cellular signalling. Consequently, radical pairs generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) that link the RPM to redox processes, such as the response to hypoxia and the circadian clock. Therapeutic nuclear magnetic resonance (tNMR) occupies a unique position in the RPM paradigm because of the used frequencies, which are far below the range of 0.1-100 MHz postulated for the RPM to occur. Nonetheless, tNMR was shown to induce RPM like effects, such as increased extracellular H2O2 levels and altered cellular bioenergetics. In this study we compared the impact of tNMR and intermittent hypoxia on the circadian clock, as well as the role of superoxide in tNMR induced ROS partitioning. We show that both, tNMR and intermittent hypoxia, exert on/off effects on cellular clocks that are dependent on the time of application (day versus night). In addition, our data provide further evidence that superoxide plays a central role in magnetic signal transduction. tNMR used in combination with scavengers, such as Vitamin C, led to strong ROS product redistributions. This discovery might represent the first indication of radical triads in biological systems.

Interactions between electromagnetic radiation and biological systems

Even though the bioeffects of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) have been extensively investigated during the past several decades, our understandings of the bioeffects of EMR and the mechanisms of the interactions between the biological systems and the EMRs are still far from satisfactory. In this article, we introduce and summarize the consensus, controversy, limitations, and unsolved issues. The published works have investigated the EMR effects on different biological systems including humans, animals, cells, and biochemical reactions. Alternative methodologies also include dielectric spectroscopy, detection of bioelectromagnetic emissions, and theoretical predictions. In many studies, the thermal effects of the EMR are not properly controlled or considered. The frequency of the EMR investigated is limited to the commonly used bands, particularly the frequencies of the power line and the wireless communications; far fewer studies were performed for other EMR frequencies. In addition, the bioeffects of the complex EM environment were rarely discussed. In summary, our understanding of the bioeffects of the EMR is quite restrictive and further investigations are needed to answer the unsolved questions.

Quantitative measurements of reactive oxygen species partitioning in electron transfer flavoenzyme magnetic field sensing

Biological magnetic field sensing that gives rise to physiological responses is of considerable importance in quantum biology. The radical pair mechanism (RPM) is a fundamental quantum process that can explain some of the observed biological magnetic effects. In magnetically sensitive radical pair (RP) reactions, coherent spin dynamics between singlet and triplet pairs are modulated by weak magnetic fields. The resulting singlet and triplet reaction products lead to distinct biological signaling channels and cellular outcomes. A prevalent RP in biology is between flavin semiquinone and superoxide (O2 •-) in the biological activation of molecular oxygen. This RP can result in a partitioning of reactive oxygen species (ROS) products to form either O2 •- or hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Here, we examine magnetic sensing of recombinant human electron transfer flavoenzyme (ETF) reoxidation by selectively measuring O2 •- and H2O2 product distributions. ROS partitioning was observed between two static magnetic fields at 20 nT and 50 μT, with a 13% decrease in H2O2 singlet products and a 10% increase in O2 •- triplet products relative to 50 µT. RPM product yields were calculated for a realistic flavin/superoxide RP across the range of static magnetic fields, in agreement with experimental results. For a triplet born RP, the RPM also predicts about three times more O2 •- than H2O2, with experimental results exhibiting about four time more O2 •- produced by ETF. The method presented here illustrates the potential of a novel magnetic flavoprotein biological sensor that is directly linked to mitochondria bioenergetics and can be used as a target to study cell physiology.

Isotope effects on radical pair performance in cryptochrome: A new hypothesis for the evolution of animal migration: The quantum biology of migration

Mechanisms occurring at the atomic level are now known to drive processes essential for life, as revealed by quantum effects on biochemical reactions. Some macroscopic characteristics of organisms may thus show an atomic imprint, which may be transferred across organisms and affect their evolution. This possibility is considered here for the first time, with the aim of elucidating the appearance of an animal innovation with an unclear evolutionary origin: migratory behaviour. This trait may be mediated by a radical pair (RP) mechanism in the retinal flavoprotein cryptochrome, providing essential magnetic orientation for migration. Isotopes may affect the performance of quantum processes through their nuclear spin. Here, we consider a simple model and then apply the standard open quantum system approach to the spin dynamics of cryptochrome RP. We changed the spin quantum number (I) and g-factor of hydrogen and nitrogen isotopes to investigate their effect on RP's yield and magnetic sensitivity. Strong differences arose between isotopes with I = 1 and I = 1/2 in their contribution to cryptochrome magnetic sensitivity, particularly regarding Earth's magnetic field strengths (25-65 µT). In most cases, isotopic substitution improved RP's magnetic sensitivity. Migratory behaviour may thus have been favoured in animals with certain isotopic compositions of cryptochrome.

Magnetic Field Intervention Enhances Cellular Migration Rates in Biological Scaffolds

The impact of magnetic fields on cellular function is diverse but can be described at least in part by the radical pair mechanism (RPM), where magnetic field intervention alters reactive oxygen species (ROS) populations and downstream cellular signaling. Here, cellular migration within three-dimensional scaffolds was monitored in an applied oscillating 1.4 MHz radiofrequency (RF) magnetic field with an amplitude of 10 µT and a static 50 µT magnetic field. Given that cellular bioenergetics can be altered based on applied RF magnetic fields, this study focused on a magnetic field configuration that increased cellular respiration. Results suggest that RF accelerated cell clustering and elongation after 1 day, with increased levels of clustering and cellular linkage after 7 days. Cell distribution analysis within the scaffolds revealed that the clustering rate during the first day was increased nearly five times in the RF environment. Electron microscopy provided additional topological information and verified the development of fibrous networks, with a cell-derived matrix (CDM) visualized after 7 days in samples maintained in RF. This work demonstrates time-dependent cellular migration that may be influenced by quantum biology (QB) processes and downstream oxidative signaling, enhancing cellular migration behavior.

Magnetic Stimulation as a Therapeutic Approach for Brain Modulation and Repair: Underlying Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms

Neurological and psychiatric diseases generally have no cure, so innovative non-pharmacological treatments, including non-invasive brain stimulation, are interesting therapeutic tools as they aim to trigger intrinsic neural repair mechanisms. A common brain stimulation technique involves the application of pulsed magnetic fields to affected brain regions. However, investigations of magnetic brain stimulation are complicated by the use of many different stimulation parameters. Magnetic brain stimulation is usually divided into two poorly connected approaches: (1) clinically used high-intensity stimulation (0.5-2 Tesla, T) and (2) experimental or epidemiologically studied low-intensity stimulation (μT-mT). Human tests of both approaches are reported to have beneficial outcomes, but the underlying biology is unclear, and thus optimal stimulation parameters remain ill defined. Here, we aim to bring together what is known about the biology of magnetic brain stimulation from human, animal, and in vitro studies. We identify the common effects of different stimulation protocols; show how different types of pulsed magnetic fields interact with nervous tissue; and describe cellular mechanisms underlying their effects-from intracellular signalling cascades, through synaptic plasticity and the modulation of network activity, to long-term structural changes in neural circuits. Recent advances in magneto-biology show clear mechanisms that may explain low-intensity stimulation effects in the brain. With its large breadth of stimulation parameters, not available to high-intensity stimulation, low-intensity focal magnetic stimulation becomes a potentially powerful treatment tool for human application.

Harmonizing Magnetic Mitohormetic Regenerative Strategies: Developmental Implications of a Calcium-Mitochondrial Axis Invoked by Magnetic Field Exposure

Mitohormesis is a process whereby mitochondrial stress responses, mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS), act cumulatively to either instill survival adaptations (low ROS levels) or to produce cell damage (high ROS levels). The mitohormetic nature of extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) exposure thus makes it susceptible to extraneous influences that also impinge on mitochondrial ROS production and contribute to the collective response. Consequently, magnetic stimulation paradigms are prone to experimental variability depending on diverse circumstances. The failure, or inability, to control for these factors has contributed to the existing discrepancies between published reports and in the interpretations made from the results generated therein. Confounding environmental factors include ambient magnetic fields, temperature, the mechanical environment, and the conventional use of aminoglycoside antibiotics. Biological factors include cell type and seeding density as well as the developmental, inflammatory, or senescence statuses of cells that depend on the prior handling of the experimental sample. Technological aspects include magnetic field directionality, uniformity, amplitude, and duration of exposure. All these factors will exhibit manifestations at the level of ROS production that will culminate as a unified cellular response in conjunction with magnetic exposure. Fortunately, many of these factors are under the control of the experimenter. This review will focus on delineating areas requiring technical and biological harmonization to assist in the designing of therapeutic strategies with more clearly defined and better predicted outcomes and to improve the mechanistic interpretation of the generated data, rather than on precise applications. This review will also explore the underlying mechanistic similarities between magnetic field exposure and other forms of biophysical stimuli, such as mechanical stimuli, that mutually induce elevations in intracellular calcium and ROS as a prerequisite for biological outcome. These forms of biophysical stimuli commonly invoke the activity of transient receptor potential cation channel classes, such as TRPC1.

Arginase-1 promotes lens epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in different models of anterior subcapsular cataract

BACKGROUND

Arginase-1 (ARG1) promotes collagen synthesis and cell proliferation. ARG1 is highly expressed in various tumour cells. The mechanisms of ARG1 in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-associated cataracts were studied herein.

METHODS

C57BL/6 mice, a human lens epithelial cell line (HLEC-SRA01/04), and human lens capsule samples were used in this study. The right lens anterior capsule of the mouse eye was punctured through the central cornea with a 26-gauge hypodermic needle. Human lens epithelial cells (HLECs) were transfected with ARG1-targeted (siARG1) or negative control siRNA (siNC). For gene overexpression, HLECs were transfected with a plasmid bearing the ARG1 coding sequence or an empty vector. Medium containing 0.2% serum with or without transforming growth factor beta-2 (TGF-β2) was added for 6 or 24 h to detect mRNA or protein, respectively. The expression of related genes was measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), western blotting, and immunohistochemical staining. Transwell assays and wound healing assays were used to determine cell migration. Cell proliferation, superoxide levels, nitric oxide (NO) levels, and arginase activity were estimated using Cell Counting Kit-8 assays, a superoxide assay kit, an NO assay kit, and an arginase activity kit.

RESULTS

ARG1, alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), fibronectin, and Ki67 expression increased after lens capsular injury, while zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) expression decreased. Fibronectin and collagen type I alpha1 chain (collagen 1A1) expression increased, and cell migration increased significantly in ARG1-overexpressing HLECs compared with those transfected with an empty vector after TGF-β2 treatment. These effects were reversed by ARG1 knockdown. The arginase-related pathway plays an important role in EMT. mRNAs of enzymes of the arginase-related pathway were highly expressed after ARG1 overexpression. ARG1 knockdown suppressed these expression changes. Numidargistat (CB-1158) dihydrochloride (CB-1158), an ARG1 inhibitor, suppressed TGF-β2-induced anterior subcapsular cataract (ASC) by reducing the proliferation of lens epithelial cells (LECs) and decreasing fibronectin, α-SMA, collagen 1A1, and vimentin expression. Compared with that in nonanterior subcapsular cataract (non-ASC) patients, the expression of ARG1, collagen 1A1, vimentin, fibronectin, and Ki67 was markedly increased in ASC patients.

CONCLUSIONS

ARG1 can regulate EMT in EMT-associated cataracts. Based on the pathogenesis of ASC, these findings are expected to provide new therapeutic strategies for patients.

The Constrained Disorder Principle Accounts for the Variability That Characterizes Breathing: A Method for Treating Chronic Respiratory Diseases and Improving Mechanical Ventilation

Variability characterizes breathing, cellular respiration, and the underlying quantum effects. Variability serves as a mechanism for coping with changing environments; however, this hypothesis does not explain why many of the variable phenomena of respiration manifest randomness. According to the constrained disorder principle (CDP), living organisms are defined by their inherent disorder bounded by variable boundaries. The present paper describes the mechanisms of breathing and cellular respiration, focusing on their inherent variability. It defines how the CDP accounts for the variability and randomness in breathing and respiration. It also provides a scheme for the potential role of respiration variability in the energy balance in biological systems. The paper describes the option of using CDP-based artificial intelligence platforms to augment the respiratory process's efficiency, correct malfunctions, and treat disorders associated with the respiratory system.

Environmental and behavioral regulation of HIF-mitochondria crosstalk

Reduced oxygen availability (hypoxia) can lead to cell and organ damage. Therefore, aerobic species depend on efficient mechanisms to counteract detrimental consequences of hypoxia. Hypoxia inducible factors (HIFs) and mitochondria are integral components of the cellular response to hypoxia and coordinate both distinct and highly intertwined adaptations. This leads to reduced dependence on oxygen, improved oxygen supply, maintained energy provision by metabolic remodeling and tapping into alternative pathways and increased resilience to hypoxic injuries. On one hand, many pathologies are associated with hypoxia and hypoxia can drive disease progression, for example in many cancer and neurological diseases. But on the other hand, controlled induction of hypoxia responses via HIFs and mitochondria can elicit profound health benefits and increase resilience. To tackle pathological hypoxia conditions or to apply health-promoting hypoxia exposures efficiently, cellular and systemic responses to hypoxia need to be well understood. Here we first summarize the well-established link between HIFs and mitochondria in orchestrating hypoxia-induced adaptations and then outline major environmental and behavioral modulators of their interaction that remain poorly understood.

Impact of weak radiofrequency and static magnetic fields on key signaling molecules, intracellular pH, membrane potential, and cell growth in HT-1080 fibrosarcoma cells

There are substantial concerns that extended exposures to weak radiofrequency (RF) fields can lead to adverse health effects. In this study, HT-1080 fibrosarcoma cells were simultaneously exposed to a static magnetic flux density between 10 [Formula: see text] and 300 [Formula: see text] and RF magnetic fields with amplitudes ranging from 1 nT to 1.5 μT in the frequency range from 1.8 to 7.2 MHz for four days. Cell growth rates, intracellular pH, hydrogen peroxide, peroxynitrite, membrane potential and mitochondrial calcium were measured. Results were dependent on carrier frequency and the magnitude of the RF magnetic field, modulation frequencies and the background static magnetic field (SMF). Iron sulphur (Fe-S) clusters are essential for the generation of reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species (ROS and RNS). We believe the observed changes are associated with hyperfine couplings between the chemically active electrons and nuclear spins. Controlling external magnetic fields may have important clinical implications on aging, cancer, arthritis, and Alzheimer's.

Weak Radiofrequency Field Effects on Chemical Parameters That Characterize Oxidative Stress in Human Fibrosarcoma and Fibroblast Cells

In the last few decades, evidence has surfaced that weak radiofrequency (RF) fields can influence biological systems. This work aims to improve our understanding of how externally applied weak RF fields alter concentrations of chemical parameters that characterize oxidative stress. We conducted a series of experiments to investigate the effects of applying weak RF magnetic fields within the 3-5 MHz region on mitochondrial respiration in both human fibrosarcoma and fibroblast cells over a period of four days. Our experimental data show that RF fields between 3 and 5 MHz were able to change the modulation of mitochondrial signaling by changing the cell growth, mitochondrial mass, and oxidative stress. Exposure to RF fields at 4.2 MHz significantly increased the mitochondrial mass and oxidative stress in fibrosarcoma cells. There are substantial concerns that extended exposure to weak RF fields can lead to health effects. The ability to control these parameters by external magnetic fields may have important clinical implications.

Concurrent Optical- and Magnetic-Stimulation-Induced Changes on Wound Healing Parameters, Analyzed by Hyperspectral Imaging: An Exploratory Case Series

The effects of concurrent optical and magnetic stimulation (COMS) therapy on wound-healing-related parameters, such as tissue oxygenation and water index, were analyzed by hyperspectral imaging: an exploratory case series. Background: Oedema and inadequate perfusion have been identified as key factors in delayed wound healing and have been linked to reduced mitochondrial respiration. Targeting mitochondrial dysfunction is a promising approach in the treatment of therapy refractory wounds. This sub-study aimed to investigate the effects of concurrent optical and magnetic stimulation (COMS) on oedema and perfusion through measuring tissue oxygenation and water index, using hyperspectral imaging. Patients and methods: In a multi-center, prospective, comparative clinical trial, eleven patients with chronic leg and foot ulcers were treated with COMS additively to Standard of Care (SOC). Hyperspectral images were collected during patient visits before and after treatment to assess short- and long-term hemodynamic and immunomodulatory effects through changes in tissue oxygenation and water index. Results: The average time for wound onset in the eleven patients analyzed was 183 days, with 64% of them being considered unresponsive to SOC. At week 12, the rate of near-complete and complete wound closure was 64% and 45%, respectively. COMS therapy with SOC resulted in an increased short-term tissue oxygenation over the 8-week treatment phase, with oxygen levels decreasing in-between patient visits. The study further found a decrease in tissue water content after the therapy, with a general accumulation of water levels in-between patient visits. This study's long-term analysis was hindered by the lack of absolute values in hyperspectral imaging and the dynamic nature of patient parameters during visits, resulting in high interpatient and intervisit variability. Conclusions: This study showed that COMS therapy as an adjunct to SOC had a positive short-term effect on inflammation and tissue oxygenation in chronic wounds of various etiologies. These results further supported the body of evidence for safety and effectiveness of COMS therapy as a treatment option, especially for stagnant wounds that tended to stay in the inflammatory phase and required efficient phase transition towards healing.

Which Factors Influence Healthy Aging? A Lesson from the Longevity Village of Bama in China

A growing aging population is associated with increasing incidences of aging-related diseases and socioeconomic burdens. Hence, research into healthy longevity and aging is urgently needed. Longevity is an important phenomenon in healthy aging. The present review summarizes the characteristics of longevity in the elderly population in Bama, China, where the proportion of centenarians is 5.7-fold greater than the international standard. We examined the impact of genetic and environmental factors on longevity from multiple perspectives. We proposed that the phenomenon of longevity in this region is of high value for future investigations in healthy aging and aging-related disease and may provide guidance for fostering the establishment and maintenance of a healthy aging society.

Transcriptomics and Metabolomics of Reactive Oxygen Species Modulation in Near-Null Magnetic Field-Induced Arabidopsis thaliana

The geomagnetic field (GMF) is a natural component of Earth's biosphere. GMF reduction to near-null values (NNMF) induces gene expression modulation that generates biomolecular, morphological, and developmental changes. Here, we evaluate the effect of NNMF on gene expression and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in time-course experiments on Arabidopsis thaliana. Plants exposed to NNMF in a triaxial Helmholtz coils system were sampled from 10 min to 96 h to evaluate differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of oxidative stress responses by gene microarray. In 24-96 h developing stages, H₂O₂ and polyphenols were also analyzed from roots and shoots. A total of 194 DEGs involved in oxidative reactions were selected, many of which showed a fold change ≥±2 in at least one timing point. Heatmap clustering showed DEGs both between roots/shoots and among the different time points. NNMF induced a lower H₂O₂ than GMF, in agreement with the expression of ROS-related genes. Forty-four polyphenols were identified, the content of which progressively decreased during NNMF exposition time. The comparison between polyphenols content and DEGs showed overlapping patterns. These results indicate that GMF reduction induces metabolomic and transcriptomic modulation of ROS-scavenging enzymes and H₂O₂ production in A. thaliana, which is paralleled by the regulation of antioxidant polyphenols.

The Mechanism of Action between Pulsed Radiofrequency and Orthobiologics: Is There a Synergistic Effect?

Radiofrequency energy is a common treatment modality for chronic pain. While there are different forms of radiofrequency-based therapeutics, the common concept is the generation of an electromagnetic field in the applied area, that can result in neuromodulation (pulsed radiofrequency—PRF) or ablation. Our specific focus relates to PRF due to the possibility of modulation that is in accordance with the mechanisms of action of orthobiologics. The proposed mechanism of action of PRF pertaining to pain relief relies on a decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines, an increase in cytosolic calcium concentration, a general effect on the immune system, and a reduction in the formation of free radical molecules. The primary known properties of orthobiologics constitute the release of growth factors, a stimulus for endogenous repair, analgesia, and improvement of the function of the injured area. In this review, we described the mechanism of action of both treatments and pertinent scientific references to the use of the combination of PRF and orthobiologics. Our hypothesis is a synergic effect with the combination of both techniques which could benefit patients and improve the life quality.

Radical triads, not pairs, may explain effects of hypomagnetic fields on neurogenesis

Adult hippocampal neurogenesis and hippocampus-dependent cognition in mice have been found to be adversely affected by hypomagnetic field exposure. The effect concurred with a reduction of reactive oxygen species in the absence of the geomagnetic field. A recent theoretical study suggests a mechanistic interpretation of this phenomenon in the framework of the Radical Pair Mechanism. According to this model, a flavin-superoxide radical pair, born in the singlet spin configuration, undergoes magnetic field-dependent spin dynamics such that the pair's recombination is enhanced as the applied magnetic field is reduced. This model has two ostensible weaknesses: a) the assumption of a singlet initial state is irreconcilable with known reaction pathways generating such radical pairs, and b) the model neglects the swift spin relaxation of free superoxide, which abolishes any magnetic sensitivity in geomagnetic/hypomagnetic fields. We here suggest that a model based on a radical triad and the assumption of a secondary radical scavenging reaction can, in principle, explain the phenomenon without unnatural assumptions, thus providing a coherent explanation of hypomagnetic field effects in biology.

Magnetic field effects in biology from the perspective of the radical pair mechanism

Hundreds of studies have found that weak magnetic fields can significantly influence various biological systems. However, the underlying mechanisms behind these phenomena remain elusive. Remarkably, the magnetic energies implicated in these effects are much smaller than thermal energies. Here, we review these observations, and we suggest an explanation based on the radical pair mechanism, which involves the quantum dynamics of the electron and nuclear spins of transient radical molecules. While the radical pair mechanism has been studied in detail in the context of avian magnetoreception, the studies reviewed here show that magnetosensitivity is widespread throughout biology. We review magnetic field effects on various physiological functions, discussing static, hypomagnetic and oscillating magnetic fields, as well as isotope effects. We then review the radical pair mechanism as a potential unifying model for the described magnetic field effects, and we discuss plausible candidate molecules for the radical pairs. We review recent studies proposing that the radical pair mechanism provides explanations for isotope effects in xenon anaesthesia and lithium treatment of hyperactivity, magnetic field effects on the circadian clock, and hypomagnetic field effects on neurogenesis and microtubule assembly. We conclude by discussing future lines of investigation in this exciting new area of quantum biology.

Brief exposure to directionally-specific pulsed electromagnetic fields stimulates extracellular vesicle release and is antagonized by streptomycin: A potential regenerative medicine and food industry paradigm

Pulsing electromagnetic fields (PEMFs) have been shown to promote in vitro and in vivo myogeneses via mitohormetic survival adaptations of which secretome activation is a key component. A single 10-min exposure of donor myoblast cultures to 1.5 mT amplitude PEMFs produced a conditioned media (pCM) capable of enhancing the myogenesis of recipient cultures to a similar degree as direct magnetic exposure. Downwardly-directed magnetic fields produced greater secretome responses than upwardly-directed fields in adherent and fluid-suspended myoblasts. The suspension paradigm allowed for the rapid concentrating of secreted factors, particularly of extracellular vesicles. The brief conditioning of basal media from magnetically-stimulated myoblasts was capable of conferring myoblast survival to a greater degree than basal media supplemented with fetal bovine serum (5%). Downward-directed magnetic fields, applied directly to cells or in the form of pCM, upregulated the protein expression of TRPC channels, markers for cell cycle progression and myogenesis. Direct magnetic exposure produced mild oxidative stress, whereas pCM provision did not, providing a survival advantage on recipient cells. Streptomycin, a TRP channel antagonist, precluded the production of a myogenic pCM. We present a methodology employing a brief and non-invasive PEMF-exposure paradigm to effectively stimulate secretome production and release for commercial or clinical exploitation.

Static and Electromagnetic Fields Differently Affect Proliferation and Cell Death Through Acid Enhancement of ROS Generation in Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Magnetic fields remotely influence cellular homeostasis as a physical agent through the changes in cell physicochemical reactions. Magnetic fields affect cell fate, which may provide an important and interesting challenge in stem cell behaviors. Here, we investigated the effects of the static magnetic field (SMF, 20 mT) and electromagnetic field (EMF, 20 mT-50 Hz) on reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and the acidic pH conditions as stimuli to change cell cycle progression and cell death in mesenchymal stem cells. Results show that SMF, EMF, and their simultaneous (SMF+EMF) administration increase ROS and expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2), and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) as an antioxidant defense system. Besides, intracellular pH (pHi) decreases in presence of either EMF or SMF+EMF, but not SMF. Decreased ROS content using ascorbic acid in these treatments leads to increased pH compared to the magnetic field treatments alone. Furthermore, each magnetic field has different effects on the cellular process of stem cells, including cell cycle, apoptosis and necrosis. Moreover, treatment by SMF enhances the cell viability after 24 h, while EMF or SMF+EMF decreases it. These observations indicate that fluctuations of ROS generation and acid enhancement during SMF and EMF treatments may reveal their beneficial and adverse effects on the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in the growth, death, and differentiation of stem cells.

Radical pairs may explain reactive oxygen species-mediated effects of hypomagnetic field on neurogenesis

Exposures to a hypomagnetic field can affect biological processes. Recently, it has been observed that hypomagnetic field exposure can adversely affect adult hippocampal neurogenesis and hippocampus-dependent cognition in mice. In the same study, the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in hypomagnetic field effects has been demonstrated. However, the mechanistic reasons behind this effect are not clear. This study proposes a radical pair mechanism based on a flavin-superoxide radical pair to explain the modulation of ROS production and the attenuation of adult hippocampal neurogenesis in a hypomagnetic field. The results of our calculations favor a singlet-born radical pair over a triplet-born radical pair. Our model predicts hypomagnetic field effects on the triplet/singlet yield of comparable strength as the effects observed in experimental studies on adult hippocampal neurogenesis. Our predictions are in qualitative agreement with experimental results on superoxide concentration and other observed ROS effects. We also predict the effects of applied magnetic fields and oxygen isotopic substitution on adult hippocampal neurogenesis.

Magnetic Field Effect on the Oxidation of Unsaturated Compounds by Molecular Oxygen

A quantum-chemical analysis of the effect of a constant magnetic field on radical formation in the processes of chain oxidation of organic compounds by molecular oxygen is presented. The calculation of the total electronic energies and thermodynamic functions of the compounds involved in the reactions was performed by the density functional method with the hybrid exchange-correlation functional of Becke, Lee, Yang and Parr DFT B3LYP/6-311G** using the NWChem software package. The effect of the magnetic field on the individual stages of chain oxidation is associated with the evolution of radical pairs. It is assumed that the dipole–dipole interaction in a radical pair is not averaged by the diffusion of radicals and should be taken into account. To a large extent, the magnetic field effect (MFE) value is influenced by the ratio between the relaxation time of the oscillatory-excited state in the radical pair (tvib) and the relaxation time of the inter-combination transitions (tst). Although the developed technique refers to liquid-phase reactions, it can be used to study the MFE for oxidation of biologically significant compounds in multiphase systems, such as micelles, liposomes and membranes.

The biological effects of geomagnetic field exhibit an important potential for cancer and vascular diseases

Xu et al. recently demonstrated that cryptochrome 4 (CRY4) protein, as a light-dependent magnetic receptor, can sense geomagnetic fields to guide night-migratory songbirds' navigation and evolution by the formation of composite radical pairs and electron transport. We aim to comment on CRY4 through radical pairs and electron transport for magnetic sensitive in night-migratory songbirds' migration and evolution. Additionally, we find that the role of magnetic fields is deeply concerning to the scientific community and very enlightening for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and vascular disease. We believe that this commentary makes a significant contribution to the literature because it elaborates on the importance of the geomagnetic field to night-migratory songbirds and extends the diagnostic and therapeutic value to cancer and vascular disease. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Chain-Like Structures of Biogenic and Nonbiogenic Magnetic Nanoparticles in Vascular Tissues

In this paper, slices of organs from various organisms (animals, plants, fungi) were investigated by using atomic force microscopy and magnetic force microscopy to identify common features of localization of both biogenic and nonbiogenic magnetic nanoparticles. It was revealed that both biogenic and nonbiogenic magnetic nanoparticles are localized in the form of chains of separate nanoparticles or chains of conglomerates of nanoparticles in the walls of the capillaries of animals and the walls of the conducting tissue of plants and fungi. Both biogenic and nonbiogenic magnetic nanoparticles are embedded as a part of the transport system in multicellular organisms. In connection with this, a new idea of the function of biogenic magnetic nanoparticles is discussed, that the chains of biogenic magnetic nanoparticles and chains of conglomerates of biogenic magnetic nanoparticles represent ferrimagnetic organelles of a specific purpose. Besides, magnetic dipole-dipole interaction of biogenic magnetic nanoparticles with magnetically labeled drugs or contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging should be considered when designing the drug delivery and other medical systems because biogenic magnetic nanoparticles in capillary walls will serve as the trapping centers for the artificial magnetic nanoparticles. The aggregates of both artificial and biogenic magnetic nanoparticles can be formed, contributing to the risk of vascular occlusion. Bioelectromagnetics. 43:119-143, 2022. © 2021 Bioelectromagnetics Society.

Anisotropic magnetic field effects in the re-oxidation of cryptochrome in the presence of scavenger radicals

The avian compass and many other of nature's magnetoreceptive traits are widely ascribed to the protein cryptochrome. There, magnetosensitivity is thought to emerge as the spin dynamics of radicals in the applied magnetic field enters in competition with their recombination. The first and dominant model makes use of a radical pair. However, recent studies have suggested that magnetosensitivity could be markedly enhanced for a radical triad, the primary radical pair of which undergoes a spin-selective recombination reaction with a third radical. Here, we test the practicality of this supposition for the reoxidation reaction of the reduced FAD cofactor in cryptochrome, which has been implicated with light-independent magnetoreception but appears irreconcilable with the classical radical pair mechanism (RPM). Based on the available realistic cryptochrome structures, we predict the magnetosensitivity of radical triad systems comprising the flavin semiquinone, the superoxide, and a tyrosine or ascorbyl scavenger radical. We consider many hyperfine-coupled nuclear spins, the relative orientation and placement of the radicals, their coupling by the electron-electron dipolar interaction, and spin relaxation in the superoxide radical in the limit of instantaneous decoherence, which have not been comprehensively considered before. We demonstrate that these systems can provide superior magnetosensitivity under realistic conditions, with implications for dark-state cryptochrome magnetoreception and other biological magneto- and isotope-sensitive radical recombination reactions.

Radical Scavenging Could Answer the Challenge Posed by Electron-Electron Dipolar Interactions in the Cryptochrome Compass Model

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.

Threshold of radiofrequency electromagnetic field effect on human brain

PURPOSE

This review aims to estimate the threshold of radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF EMF) effects on human brain based on analyses of published research results. To clarify the threshold of the RF EMF effects, two approaches have been applied: (1) the analyses of restrictions in sensitivity for different steps of the physical model of low-level RF EMF mechanism and (2) the analyses of experimental data to clarify the dependence of the RF EMF effect on exposure level based on the results of published original neurophysiological and behavioral human studies for 15 years 2007-2021.

CONCLUSIONS

The analyses of the physical model of nonthermal mechanisms of RF EMF effect leads to conclusion that no principal threshold of the effect can be determined. According to the review of experimental data, the rate of detected RF EMF effects is 76.7% in resting EEG studies, 41.7% in sleep EEG and 38.5% in behavioral studies. The changes in EEG probably appear earlier than alterations in behavior become evident. The lowest level of RF EMF at which the effect in EEG was detected is 2.45 V/m (SAR = 0.003 W/kg). There is a preliminary indication that the dependence of the effect on the level of exposure follows rather field strength than SAR alterations. However, no sufficient data are available for clarifying linearity-nonlinearity of the dependence of effect on the level of RF EMF. The finding that only part of people are sensitive to RF EMF exposure can be related to immunity to radiation or hypersensitivity. The changes in EEG caused by RF EMF appeared similar in the majority of analyzed studies and similar to these in depression. The possible causal relationship between RF EMF effect and depression among young people is highly important problem.

Effects induced by a 50 Hz electromagnetic field and doxorubicin on Walker-256 carcinosarcoma growth and hepatic redox state in rats

We compare the effects of an extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (EMF) with the chemotherapeutic agent doxorubicin (DOX) on tumor growth and the hepatic redox state in Walker-256 carcinosarcoma-bearing rats. Animals were divided into five groups with one control (no tumor) and four tumor-bearing groups: no treatment, DOX, DOX combined with EMF and EMF. While DOX and DOX + EMF provided greater inhibition of tumor growth, treatment with EMF alone resulted in some level of antitumor effect (p < .05). Superoxide dismutase, catalase activity and glutathione content were significantly decreased in the liver of tumor-bearing animals as compared with the control group (p < .05). The decreases in antioxidant defenses accompanied histological findings of suspected liver damage. However, hepatic levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, an indicator of lipid peroxidation, were three times lower in EMF and DOX + EMF groups than in no treatment and DOX (p < .05). EMF and DOX + EMF showed significantly lower activity of serum ALT than DOX alone (p < .05). These results indicate that EMF treatment can inhibit tumor growth, causing less pronounced oxidative stress damage to the liver. Therefore, EMF can be used as a therapeutic strategy to influence the hepatic redox state and combat cancer with reduced side-effects.

Melatonin: a Potential Shield against Electromagnetic Waves

Melatonin, a vital hormone synthesized by the pineal gland, has been implicated in various physiological functions and in circadian rhythm regulation. Its role in the protection against the non-ionizing electromagnetic field (EMF), known to disrupt the body's oxidative/anti-oxidative balance, has been called into question due to inconsistent results observed across studies. This review provides the current state of knowledge on the interwoven relationship between melatonin, EMF, and oxidative stress. Based on synthesized evidence, we present a model that best describes the mechanisms underlying the protective effects of melatonin against RF/ELF-EMF induced oxidative stress. We show that the free radical scavenger activity of melatonin is enabled through reduction of the radical pair singlet-triplet conversion rate and the concentration of the triplet products. Moreover, this review aims to highlight the potential therapeutic benefits of melatonin against the detrimental effects of EMF, in general, and electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS), in particular.

Cellular autofluorescence is magnetic field sensitive

We demonstrate, by direct, single-cell imaging kinetic measurements, that endogenous autofluorescence in HeLa cells is sensitive to the application of external magnetic fields of 25 mT and less. We provide spectroscopic and mechanistic evidence that our findings can be explained in terms of magnetic field effects on photoinduced electron transfer reactions to flavins, through the radical pair mechanism. The observed magnetic field dependence is consistent with a triplet-born radical pair and a B_1/2 value of 18.0 mT with a saturation value of 3.7%.

HEK293 cell response to static magnetic fields via the radical pair mechanism may explain therapeutic effects of pulsed electromagnetic fields

PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) stimulation has been used for therapeutic purposes for over 50 years including in the treatment of memory loss, depression, alleviation of pain, bone and wound healing, and treatment of certain cancers. However, the underlying cellular mechanisms mediating these effects have remained poorly understood. In particular, because magnetic field pulses will induce electric currents in the stimulated tissue, it is unclear whether the observed effects are due to the magnetic or electric component of the stimulation. Recently, it has been shown that PEMFs stimulate the formation of ROS (reactive oxygen species) in human cell cultures by a mechanism that requires cryptochrome, a putative magnetosensor. Here we show by qPCR analysis of ROS-regulated gene expression that simply removing cell cultures from the Earth’s geomagnetic field by placing them in a Low-Level Field condition induces similar effects on ROS signaling as does exposure of cells to PEMF. This effect can be explained by the so-called Radical Pair mechanism, which provides a quantum physical means by which the rates and product yields (e.g. ROS) of biochemical redox reactions may be modulated by magnetic fields. Since transient cancelling of the Earth’s magnetic field can in principle be achieved by PEMF exposure, we propose that the therapeutic effects of PEMFs may be explained by the ensuing modulation of ROS synthesis. Our results could lead to significant improvements in the design and therapeutic applications of PEMF devices.

Arabidopsis cryptochrome is responsive to Radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic fields

How living systems respond to weak electromagnetic fields represents one of the major unsolved challenges in sensory biology. Recent evidence has implicated cryptochrome, an evolutionarily conserved flavoprotein receptor, in magnetic field responses of organisms ranging from plants to migratory birds. However, whether cryptochromes fulfill the criteria to function as biological magnetosensors remains to be established. Currently, theoretical predictions on the underlying mechanism of chemical magnetoreception have been supported by experimental observations that exposure to radiofrequency (RF) in the MHz range disrupt bird orientation and mammalian cellular respiration. Here we show that, in keeping with certain quantum physical hypotheses, a weak 7 MHz radiofrequency magnetic field significantly reduces the biological responsivity to blue light of the cryptochrome receptor cry1 in Arabidopsis seedlings. Using an in vivo phosphorylation assay that specifically detects activated cryptochrome, we demonstrate that RF exposure reduces conformational changes associated with biological activity. RF exposure furthermore alters cryptochrome-dependent plant growth responses and gene expression to a degree consistent with theoretical predictions. To our knowledge this represents the first demonstration of a biological receptor responding to RF exposure, providing important new implications for magnetosensing as well as possible future applications in biotechnology and medicine.

In light-sensitive drug delivery system nanoparticles mediate oxidative stress

In light-sensitive drug delivery systems, more and more nanoparticles were applied to load various drug molecules. However, few studies focused on their biomedical effects such as the regulation of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation which could influence cellular redox reaction. In the present article, through review of literature, analysis of high-throughput sequencing database, the mechanisms of drug delivery based on organic (poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) and polyethylene glycol (PEG)) and inorganic (Au, ZnO, SiO₂ and TiO₂) nanoparticles were introduced briefly. Besides, it was also expounded that nuclear factor-erythroid 2 (NF-E2)-related factor 2/BTB domain and CNC homolog 1 (Nrf2/Bach1) might be involved in the regulation of HO-1 and the quantum effect of photon altered ROS generation. The exogenous nanoparticles certainly have various biomedical effects that even affect the pathogenesis of some diseases like atopic dermatitis. Thus, biomedical effect of nanoparticles depends on HO-1/ROS needs further research.

Effects of Pulsed Radiofrequency on a Standard Model of Muscle Injury in Rats

Background

Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) affects animal and plant tissues; however, the mechanism has not been defined. We hypothesized that the magnetic field produced by PRF exerts its effects by the magnetic sensitivity of transitions between spin states -a spin-correlated radical-pair mechanism (SCRPM)- which, in turn, affects the rates of chemical reactions with participation of paramagnetic species.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of PRF on redox equilibrium and inflammatory status in a standard model of muscle injury in rats.

Methods

Twenty-four animals were subjected to a single impact trauma to the left quadriceps and the groups exposed and not exposed to PRF were compared. On day 7 of the experiment, the animals were killed and the quadriceps muscles were removed for analysis.

Results

There was a significant increase in the concentration of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in the muscle of animals from the trauma group (+233%), and this increase was eliminated by PRF administration. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was increased (+411%) by trauma, resulting in significantly higher consumption of catalase (-72%), while PRF administration brought both of these markers back to levels close to those of the control group. Trauma induced considerable production of interleukins TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 (+215%, +262%, and +326% vs. controls, respectively) and these effects were also significantly reduced by PRF administration.

Conclusions

In total, PRF inhibits oxidative stress and restores antioxidant enzymes to control levels and may block production of inflammatory markers in muscles of animals subjected to trauma. By modulating redox equilibrium, PRF treatment might block production of noxious mediators involved in development of trauma-induced injury.

Introducing VIKING: A Novel Online Platform for Multiscale Modeling

Various biochemical and biophysical processes, occurring on multiple time and length scales, can nowadays be studied using specialized software packages on supercomputer clusters. The complexity of such simulations often requires application of different methods in a single study and strong computational expertise. We have developed VIKING, a convenient web platform for carrying out multiscale computations on supercomputers. VIKING allows combining methods in standardized workflows, making complex simulations accessible to a broader biochemical and biophysical society.

Viability of superoxide-containing radical pairs as magnetoreceptors

The ability of night-migratory songbirds to sense the direction of the Earth's magnetic field is increasingly attributed to a photochemical mechanism in which the magnetic field acts on transient radical pairs in cryptochrome flavoproteins located in the birds' eyes. The magnetically sensitive species is commonly assumed to be [FAD^•- TrpH^•+], formed by sequential light-induced intraprotein electron transfers from a chain of tryptophan residues to the flavin adenine dinucleotide chromophore. However, some evidence points to superoxide, O₂ ^•-, as an alternative partner for the flavin radical. The absence of hyperfine interactions in O₂ ^•- could lead to a more sensitive magnetic compass, but only if the electron spin relaxation of the O₂ ^•- radical is much slower than normally expected for a small mobile radical with an orbitally degenerate electronic ground state. In this study we use spin dynamics simulations to model the sensitivity of a flavin-superoxide radical pair to the direction of a 50 μT magnetic field. By varying parameters that characterize the local environment and molecular dynamics of the radicals, we identify the highly restrictive conditions under which a O₂ ^•--containing radical pair could form the basis of a geomagnetic compass sensor. We conclude that the involvement of superoxide in compass magnetoreception must remain highly speculative until further experimental evidence is forthcoming.

The comparison between superparamagnetic and ferromagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles for cancer nanotherapy in the magnetic resonance system

The paper aims to compare zeta potentials, magnetic properties, electron spin resonance, photoluminescence (PL) spectra and antitumor effect of magneto-mechano-chemically synthesized magneto-sensitive nanocomplexes loaded with the anticancer drug doxorubicin (DOXO) during nanotherapy of Walker-256 carcinosarcoma carried out by a magnetic resonance system. Diamagnetic DOXO acquired the properties of a paramagnetic substance after synthesis. MNC comprising superparamagnetic nanoparticles (NP) and DOXO had different g-factors, zeta potentials, a lower saturation magnetic moment, area of the hysteresis loop, and a higher coercivity compared to similar MNC with ferromagnetic NP. The main PL peak of MNC spectrum was defined by DOXO at 598 nm. MNC composed of superparamagnetic NP and DOXO showed a lower standard deviation of the normal PL spectral distribution than MNC based on ferromagnetic NP in relation to conventional DOXO. MNC containing superparamagnetic NP responded to resonance conditions leading to a more pronounced antitumor effect compared to MNC with ferromagnetic NP in the course of magnetic nanotherapy for Walker-256 carcinosarcoma bearing animals (temperature inside the tumor did not exceed 40 °C). Therefore, these findings are associated with differences in chemotherapeutic effect between MNC due to a different surface charge and conformational changes in DOXO molecules during its magnetoelectric interaction with single- and multidomain NP.

Flavin Conjugated Polydopamine Nanoparticles Displaying Light-Driven Monooxygenase Activity

A hybrid of flavin and polydopamine (PDA) has been explored as a photocatalyst, drawing inspiration from natural flavoenzymes. Light-driven monoxygenase activity has been demonstrated through the oxidation of indole under blue light irradiation in ambient conditions, to afford indigo and indirubin dyes. Compared to riboflavin, a flavin-polydopamine hybrid is shown to be more resistant to photobleaching and more selective toward dye production. In addition, it has been demonstrated that it can be recycled from the solution and used for up to four cycles without a marked loss of activity, which is a significant improvement compared to other heterogenous flavin catalysts. The mechanism of action has been explored, indicating that the PDA shell plays an important role in the stabilization of the intermediate flavin-peroxy species, an active component of the catalytic system rather than acting only as a passive nanocarrier of active centers.

Morpholine-based buffers activate aerobic photobiocatalysis via spin correlated ion pair formation

The use of enzymes for synthetic applications is a powerful and environmentally-benign approach to increase molecular complexity. Oxidoreductases selectively introduce oxygen and hydrogen atoms into myriad substrates, catalyzing the synthesis of chemical and pharmaceutical building blocks for chemical production. However, broader application of this class of enzymes is limited by the requirements of expensive cofactors and low operational stability. Herein, we show that morpholine-based buffers, especially 3-(N-morpholino)propanesulfonic acid (MOPS), promote photoinduced flavoenzyme-catalyzed asymmetric redox transformations by regenerating the flavin cofactor via sacrificial electron donation and by increasing the operational stability of flavin-dependent oxidoreductases. The stabilization of the active forms of flavin by MOPS via formation of the spin correlated ion pair 3[flavin˙--MOPS˙+] ensemble reduces the formation of hydrogen peroxide, circumventing the oxygen dilemma under aerobic conditions detrimental to fragile enzymes.

Towards predicting intracellular radiofrequency radiation effects

Recent experiments have reported an effect of weak radiofrequency magnetic fields in the MHz-range on the concentrations of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in living cells. Since the energy that could possibly be deposited by the radiation is orders of magnitude smaller than the energy of molecular thermal motion, it was suggested that the effect was caused by the interaction of RF magnetic fields with transient radical pairs within the cells, affecting the ROS formation rates through the radical pair mechanism. It is, however, at present not entirely clear how to predict RF magnetic field effects at certain field frequency and intensity in nanoscale biomolecular systems. We suggest a possible recipe for interpreting the radiofrequency effects in cells by presenting a general workflow for calculation of the reactive perturbations inside a cell as a function of RF magnetic field strength and frequency. To justify the workflow, we discuss the effects of radiofrequency magnetic fields on generic spin systems to particularly illustrate how the reactive radicals could be affected by specific parameters of the experiment. We finally argue that the suggested workflow can be used to predict effects of radiofrequency magnetic fields on radical pairs in biological cells, which is specially important for wireless recharging technologies where one has to know of any harmful effects that exposure to such radiation might cause.

Protein film electrochemical EPR spectroscopy as a technique to investigate redox reactions in biomolecules

Direct potential control of protein redox centres for both electrochemical and EPR characterisation.

Oxygen, evolution and redox signalling in the human brain; quantum in the quotidian

Rising atmospheric oxygen (O₂ ) levels provided a selective pressure for the evolution of O₂ -dependent micro-organisms that began with the autotrophic eukaryotes. Since these primordial times, the respiring mammalian cell has become entirely dependent on the constancy of electron flow, with molecular O₂ serving as the terminal electron acceptor in mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. Indeed, the ability to 'sense' O₂ and maintain homeostasis is considered one of the most important roles of the central nervous system (CNS) and probably represented a major driving force in the evolution of the human brain. Today, modern humans have evolved with an oversized brain committed to a continually active state and, as a consequence, paradoxically vulnerable to failure if the O₂ supply is interrupted. However, our pre-occupation with O₂ , the elixir of life, obscures the fact that it is a gas with a Janus face, capable of sustaining life in physiologically controlled amounts yet paradoxically deadly to the CNS when in excess. A closer look at its quantum structure reveals precisely why; the triplet ground state diatomic O₂ molecule is paramagnetic and exists in air as a free radical, constrained from reacting aggressively with the brain's organic molecules due to its 'spin restriction', a thermodynamic quirk of evolutionary fate. By further exploring O₂ 's free radical 'quantum quirkiness', including emergent (quantum) physiological phenomena, our understanding of precisely how the human brain senses O₂ deprivation (hypoxia) and the elaborate redox-signalling defence mechanisms that defend O₂ homeostasis has the potential to offer unique insights into the pathophysiology and treatment of human brain disease.

RETRACTED ARTICLE: The quantum physiology of oxygen; from electrons to the evolution of redox signaling in the human brain

Rising atmospheric oxygen (O₂) levels provided a selective pressure for the evolution of O₂-dependent micro-organisms that began with the autotrophic eukaryotes. Since these primordial times, the respiring mammalian cell has become entirely dependent on the constancy of electron flow with molecular O₂ serving as the terminal electron acceptor in mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. Indeed, the ability to “sense” O₂ and maintain homeostasis is considered one of the most important roles of the central nervous system (CNS) and likely represented a major driving force in the evolution of the human brain. Today, modern humans have evolved with an oversized brain committed to a continually active state and as a consequence, paradoxically vulnerable to failure if the O₂ supply is interrupted. However, our pre-occupation with O₂, the elixir of life, obscures the fact that it is a gas with a Janus Face, capable of sustaining life in physiologically controlled amounts yet paradoxically deadly to the CNS when in excess. A closer look at its quantum structure reveals precisely why; the triplet ground state diatomic O₂ molecule is paramagnetic and exists in air as a free radical, constrained from reacting aggressively with the brain’s organic molecules due to its “spin restriction”, a thermodynamic quirk of evolutionary fate. By further exploring O₂’s free radical “quantum quirkiness” including emergent quantum physiological phenomena, our understanding of precisely how the human brain senses O₂ deprivation (hypoxia) and the elaborate redox-signaling defense mechanisms that defend O₂ homeostasis has the potential to offer unique insights into the pathophysiology and treatment of human brain disease.