1st In Vivo Evidence for Quantum Neurons

In summary, a paper on the new quantitative biology section of the preprint arxiv presents evidence of chaotic behavior in the brains of living rats that matches a well-known theoretical model of chaotic quantum mechanics. This discovery, if verified, would be a true breakthrough as it goes against the current belief that neurons do not exhibit quantum behaviors. This finding may be used by "quantum mind" theorists to support their theories.
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selfAdjoint
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Originally posted by selfAdjoint
This paper on the new quantitative biology section of the preprint arxiv claims evidence in brains of living rats of chaotic behavior matching that of a well known theoretical model of chaotic quantum mechanics. If verified, a true breakthrough.

Interesting though it may be, why a breakthrough? I had always though that anything composed of quantum particles would behave according to quantum chaos...
 
  • #3
No, the neurons have not previously been thought to exhibit quantum behaviors; they are cells, big as cels go, and have complex chemical behavior. They also operate at body temperature. These two things, size and elevated temperature, are though to prevent pure quantum states from lasting long enough to provide visible effects. So this discovery, even though it is from the new chaotic end of quantum theory, comes as a surprize.

I am sure it will be seized on by "quantum mind" theorists.
 

What is the concept of "1st In Vivo Evidence for Quantum Neurons"?

The concept of "1st In Vivo Evidence for Quantum Neurons" refers to the first experimental evidence that suggests the presence of quantum mechanics in the functioning of neurons in a living organism. This evidence challenges the traditional understanding of brain function and opens up new possibilities for understanding consciousness and cognition.

How was this evidence obtained?

The evidence was obtained through a series of experiments where scientists observed the behavior of individual neurons in a living brain. They found that the behavior of these neurons could not be explained by classical physics and instead showed characteristics of quantum mechanics, such as superposition and entanglement.

What implications does this have for our understanding of the brain?

This evidence challenges the long-standing belief that the brain operates solely through classical mechanics. It suggests that quantum processes may play a role in how the brain processes information and how consciousness arises. This could lead to a better understanding of complex brain functions and potentially pave the way for new treatments for neurological disorders.

How does this relate to the field of quantum biology?

This evidence is a significant advancement in the field of quantum biology, which studies the application of quantum mechanics in living organisms. It provides further evidence that quantum processes may play a role in biological systems and could have a major impact on our understanding of fundamental biological processes.

What are some potential future research directions in this field?

With this new evidence, there are many potential research directions that scientists can pursue. Some may focus on understanding the exact mechanisms of how quantum processes operate in neurons, while others may explore the potential applications of this knowledge, such as creating quantum-inspired artificial intelligence or developing new treatments for neurological disorders.

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