The application of quantum biology in controlling tissue growth

Increasing evidence suggests responding to quantum phenomena, such as changes in spin state and hyperfine interactions, may be a basic cellular feature not limited to specialized cells. If so, this would have large ramifications for therapeutic advancements. We are investigating the ability of quantum changes to affect the signaling pathways that control planarian regeneration. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) regulate cell proliferation and tissue growth in many contexts, making manipulation of ROS radicals a promising area of research. Our data show that weak magnetic fields (WMFs, < 1 mT) cause wound site changes of ROS in stem cells, along with ROS-mediated gene expression, proliferation, and blastema (new tissue) growth. Although peaks of both superoxide (O2•–) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) occur after injury, WMFs altered only O2•– levels, suggesting WMF effects are mediated by a superoxide dependent pathway. Transcriptomic analyses (RNAseq) are broadening our understanding of stem cell responses to WMFs and their potential use as a non-invasive tool to regulate tissue growth in vivo for regenerative medicine and cancer treatment. Funding: NSF-2105474/2531173 and NIH-1R15GM150073