Wireless electrical–molecular quantum signalling for cancer cell apoptosis

Abstract

<p>Quantum biological tunnelling for electron transfer is involved in</p><p>controlling essential functions for life such as cellular respiration and</p><p>homoeostasis. Understanding and controlling the quantum effects in</p><p>biology has the potential to modulate biological functions. Here we merge</p><p>wireless nano-electrochemical tools with cancer cells for control over</p><p>electron transfer to trigger cancer cell death. Gold bipolar nanoelectrodes</p><p>functionalized with redox-active cytochrome c and a redox mediator</p><p>zinc porphyrin are developed as electric-field-stimulating bio-actuators,</p><p>termed bio-nanoantennae. We show that a remote electrical input regulates</p><p>electron transport between these redox molecules, which results in</p><p>quantum biological tunnelling for electron transfer to trigger apoptosis</p><p>in patient-derived cancer cells in a selective manner. Transcriptomics</p><p>data show that the electric-field-induced bio-nanoantenna targets the</p><p>cancer cells in a unique manner, representing electrically induced control</p><p>of molecular signalling. The work shows the potential of quantum-based</p><p>medical diagnostics and treatments.</p>