The effect of magnetic fields on biomolecules.
Nanotechnology (Saitama University Research Seed Collection 2025-25 p.109)
Keywords: photochemistry, electron spin, magnetism, protein, electron spin resonance, ESR, solar cells
It is known that living organisms can sense magnetic fields. Migratory birds are known to utilize geomagnetism to fly thousands of kilometers. Magnetotactic bacteria possess iron oxide (similar to a magnet) within their bodies, which helps them determine the direction of movement in a magnetic field. There are also studies suggesting that humans may potentially sense magnetic fields. If the mechanism for sensing magnetic fields can be applied, it may be possible to control various reactions occurring in living organisms using magnetic fields. If we can promote chemical reactions at specific locations, it could lead to new principles for cancer treatment and other applications. Although the mechanisms are still largely unknown, research is focusing on the magnetic properties (spin) of electrons in proteins and metals within living organisms. We are advancing research to elucidate how magnetic fields influence the structure and properties of biomolecules through electron spin. The effects of magnetic fields on biomolecules could lead to advancements in medicine and new biotechnologies. The interplay between electron spin and magnetic field effects holds broad potential applications that span the fields of biology, chemistry, and physics, including in areas like solar cells.
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Hiroki Nagashima, Assistant Professor Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Department of Material Science, Material Function Area 【Recent Research Topics】 ● Magnetic response mechanism of cryptochrome in migratory birds ● Magnetic response mechanism of iron-sulfur cluster assembly (ISCA) ● Synthesis of new spin labels ● Control of radical pair reactions using electromagnetic waves and magnetic fields
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【Appeal Points to the Industry】 ●Observation of reaction intermediates generated by light (enzyme reactions, solar cells, catalysts, etc.) ●Detection and quantification of radicals, elucidation of molecular structures 【Examples of Practical Applications, Use Cases, and Utilization】 ●Distance measurement and structural elucidation of extensive protein complexes ●Utilization of magnetic fields in biological systems
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Measurement of Interprotein Distances by Electron Spin Resonance Method
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The Saitama University Open Innovation Center is a center that functions as a liaison office for industry-academia-government collaboration. It consists of three departments: the Industry-Academia-Government Collaboration Department, the Intellectual Property Department, and the Startup Support Department, each staffed with coordinators well-versed in various fields. The center's activities include solving technical challenges in companies, supporting the implementation of joint research, and conducting technology transfer aimed at introducing and utilizing Saitama University's intellectual property.