University of Chicago creates quantum sensors using biological proteins

In an innovative study conducted at the University of Chicago, researchers at the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering have successfully transformed proteins found in living cells into functioning quantum bits, or qubits. This development represents a significant intersection between the fields of biology and quantum mechanics, where the former has typically been viewed as distinct from the latter due to their disparate operational environments. Quantum mechanics often necessitates extreme isolation and temperatures approaching absolute zero—conditions that are not conducive to sustaining biological life. The researchers aimed to leverage this relationship by exploring the potential of using a biological protein as a quantum sensor. Historically, qubits have been produced through manipulating various quantum particles, such as trapped ions and electrons, or utilizing imperfections in diamond lattice structures. However, the University of Chicago’s approach involved engineering a biological protein specifically for this purpose. David Awschalom, a co-principal investigator on the project, outlined the vision of harnessing nature to develop powerful families of quantum sensors, diverging from traditional methods. This innovative approach could enable scientists to gain unprecedented insights into biological processes. Utilizing genetically encoded fluorescent proteins, which are invaluable in cellular biology, the researchers crafted these proteins to detect minute changes, significantly improving upon existing quantum sensors. Although the protein qubits do not yet match the precision of diamond-based quantum sensors, their ability to be genetically encoded and produced within living systems opens up remarkable possibilities. This method allows for monitoring biological phenomena at a quantum level, which might include observing protein folding, enzyme activity, and early signs of disease progression. The implications of this research extend beyond merely understanding biological systems. By integrating quantum technology into biological studies, scientists may revolutionize fields such as medical imaging. Future applications could include quantum-enabled nanoscale MRI techniques that provide detailed information about the atomic structure of cellular machinery, thus advancing biological research. The combined efforts of biology and quantum mechanics signal a new frontier in scientific exploration, offering the potential to unravel biological complexities like never before.