• Proton transfer in biological systems is influenced by electron spin, revealing a quantum aspect.
• Injecting electrons with specific spin orientations into lysozyme crystals altered proton mobility.
• The discovery opens possibilities for quantum-based biological sensors, energy devices, and therapies.

A new study from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem has revealed that proton movement in biological systems is not solely a chemical process but is also influenced by quantum mechanics. The research demonstrates that the spin of electrons directly impacts the movement of protons through biological molecules, potentially revolutionizing the understanding of energy processes in living organisms. Published in PNAS, the study highlights the connection between proton transfer and electron spin in chiral biological environments, challenging conventional biochemical assumptions.

• What: Researchers demonstrated that proton transfer in biological systems is influenced by the spin of electrons, a quantum property, impacting proton mobility in chiral environments.
• Who: Led by Naama Goren and Professor Yossi Paltiel from Hebrew University, with contributions from Professor Ron Naaman (Weizmann Institute) and Professor Nurit Ashkenasy (Ben-Gurion University).
• When: Study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), May 6, 2025.
• Where: Research conducted at Hebrew University, Weizmann Institute of Science, Ben-Gurion University, and EPFL in Lausanne, Switzerland.

This research significantly bridges quantum physics and biochemistry, suggesting that life processes are not solely chemical but also fundamentally quantum. The discovery of spin-dependent proton transport opens new avenues for understanding energy and information transfer in biological systems. While experiments were conducted in controlled lab conditions with purified lysozyme crystals, the findings suggest broader implications for biological processes and potential applications in creating quantum-based sensors, energy devices, and therapies.

Our findings show that the way protons move in biological systems isn’t just about chemistry — it’s also about quantum physics.

The coupling between electron spin and proton mobility could pave the way for new kinds of bio-inspired technologies and mechanisms for controlling information transfer within cells.

The study from Hebrew University reveals a quantum influence on proton transfer in biological systems, opening up new possibilities for bio-inspired technologies. While further research is needed to understand the implications in dynamic biological systems, this interdisciplinary work reshapes scientific understanding of life processes and presents potential advancements in medicine and nanotechnology.