Birds have long fascinated scientists with their incredible ability to migrate thousands of miles each year without clear signposts. Now, researchers believe they’ve found the key to understanding this phenomenon – a tiny protein in birds’ eyes called cryptochrome.
Dr. Jingjing Xu from the University of Oldenburg says that certain proteins in birds’ bodies help them interpret Earth’s magnetic field. The radical pair model suggests that changes in electron spin states in these proteins trigger visual signals that alert the bird’s navigation system.
Cryptochrome, a light-sensitive protein, is thought to play a crucial role in this process. It sits in cells where visual information is processed and sends navigational clues when it detects shifts in the magnetic field. Some studies point to a specific form of cryptochrome called CRY4, which has a strong ability to keep its light-harvesting parts stable.
Birds’ sensitive navigation systems may be more finely tuned than previously thought. Experiments show that migratory birds respond strongly to small magnetic shifts, while non-migratory birds show reduced sensitivity. This difference supports the idea that migrators have more advanced cryptochrome systems.
The discovery of this protein has sparked excitement among experts and scientists alike. While engineers are fascinated by the potential for biologically-based navigation systems, more research is needed to fully understand how it works. Conservation groups see the study as an important step in protecting migratory routes and habitats.
Understanding cryptochrome’s role in bird migration could also shed light on how birds adapt to environmental changes and potentially inspire new technologies. As researchers continue to unravel the mysteries of this protein, they may uncover new secrets about life on our planet.
Source: https://www.earth.com/news/birds-may-be-using-quantum-physics-for-migration