Entangled biphoton generation in myelin sheath (2401.11682v2)

Abstract: Consciousness within the brain hinges on the synchronized activities of millions of neurons, but the mechanism responsible for orchestrating such synchronization remains elusive. In this study, we employ cavity quantum electrodynamics (cQED) to explore entangled biphoton generation through cascade emission in the vibration spectrum of C-H bonds within the lipid molecules' tails. The results indicate that the cylindrical cavity formed by a myelin sheath can facilitate spontaneous photon emission from the vibrational modes and generate a significant number of entangled photon pairs. The abundance of C-H bond vibration units in neurons can therefore serve as a source of quantum entanglement resources for the nervous system. The finding may offer insight into the brain's ability to leverage these resources for quantum information transfer, thereby elucidating a potential source for the synchronized activity of neurons.

• The paper demonstrates that vibrational modes of C-H bonds in lipid molecules, observed through cQED, generate entangled biphotons in myelin sheaths.
• The study models myelin sheaths as cylindrical microcavities and quantifies entanglement using Schmidt decomposition and von Neumann entropy.
• The findings imply that quantum entanglement in myelin sheaths may enhance neural synchronization and offer new perspectives on neurodegenerative diseases.

Entangled Biphoton Generation in Myelin Sheath: A Quantum Perspective on Neural Synchronization

The paper under discussion explores a novel theory linking quantum physics to neurobiology through the presence of entangled biphotons within myelin sheaths of neurons. Employing cavity quantum electrodynamics (cQED), the authors investigate how vibrational modes of C-H bonds in lipid molecules can generate entangled photon pairs. This entangled photon generation may provide quantum entanglement resources, potentially contributing to the synchronization of neuronal activity and offering new insights into consciousness.

The research begins by examining the structure of myelin sheaths, lipid-dense layers encasing axons, forming cylindrical cavities. These structures are traditionally recognized as insulators that provide energy and improve signal transmission in the nervous system. Here, the paper explores the myelin sheath's capability to serve as a cylindrical microcavity. This cavity is crucial as it confines electromagnetic fields and allows the generation of entangled photons via cascade emissions from C-H bond vibrational modes.

Theoretical modeling shows that entangled photon pairs are produced effectively through two-photon cascade processes within the myelin cavity, described using the anharmonic Morse oscillator potential. The coupling of electromagnetic fields within these well-defined cylindrical structures leads to discrete energy levels, leading to the production of photons that are significantly entangled. The use of Schmidt decomposition in this framework enables the quantification of biphoton entanglement through calculated von Neumann entropy.

The implications of this work are profound, suggesting that myelin sheaths could play a role in neural phase synchronization, providing an entanglement resource for quantum information transfer across neural networks. It opens a path for reconsidering the role of light in neural functioning, especially concerning mid-infrared (MIR) photons and their modulating effects on neuronal signaling, potentially linking neuronal activities over long distances. Such quantum coherence effects, if substantiated further, might reveal additional layers of complexity in neural communication pathways.

Furthermore, the paper hints at the real-life clinical relevance of these findings, referencing thin myelin sheaths associated with aging and neurodegenerative diseases. The paper suggests that entanglement within myelin cavities might vary with structural changes in the sheath, which could impact neural synchronization and, indeed, diseases such as Alzheimer's.

While the paper employs rigorous simulation and theoretical intricacies, including the quantization of electromagnetic fields and the effects of discrete modes, it acknowledges shortcomings and areas for future exploration. For instance, it indicates the need for more refined models that account for interactions with vibron ensembles and consideration of polariton effects.

The future direction of this research could involve experimental verification of these quantum processes within biological systems. As quantum biological concepts draw increasing interest, particularly concerning their applications in understanding consciousness and brain disorders, this paper sets the foundation for deeper interdisciplinary investigations.

In conclusion, this work challenges conventional views of myelin sheaths, highlighting their possible role beyond that of passive insulators to active components in quantum neural networks. With potential implications spanning quantum information, neurobiology, and disease pathology, this paper serves as a catalyst for advancing understanding and stimulating curiosity within the scientific community. Future developments could significantly reshape our approach to neuroscience and quantum biology.