When a molecule of tryptophan absorbs ultraviolet light, it glows faintly as it releases energy at a lower frequency.
This effect, called fluorescence, is well known. But something extraordinary happens when many tryptophan molecules act together in highly ordered protein structures: they begin to glow brighter and faster than they should. This surprising group behavior, called superradiance, is the focus of new research that could change how we think about life and the nature of information itself.
Researchers have now found that tryptophan-rich proteins, especially in brain cells and other biological systems, may function as quantum computing networks.
These networks not only help protect cells from damage but might also store and transmit data in ways faster and more efficient than previously believed.