Ultra-weak photon emission: from oxidative metabolism to DNA-based communication: a review of biochemical, biophysical and quantum biological perspectives
Abstract
Introduction: Ultra-weak photon emission (UPE) from living systems has been reported and linked to oxidative reactions. Whether photons mediate communication-particularly at the level of DNA-remains unresolved. Rather than interpreting UPE solely as a metabolic byproduct, increasing evidence suggests that it represents a structured, state-dependent optical correlate of cellular organization. To review biochemical and quantum-biological bases of UPE, summarize measurement approaches, and evaluate whether DNA-related emission could support signalling, and critically evaluate whether DNA-related emission may have functional relevance for biological signalling.
Methods: We synthesised literature on sources (reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation, protein/DNA oxidation) and detectors (photomultiplier tubes, cooled CCD cameras, Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor CMOS). We measured UPE from mouse embryos in a dark incubator using an ORCA-Quest CMOS system.
Results: UPE is modulated by cellular state; mitochondria, membranes and peroxisomes are key contributors. Models posit DNA as a storage/emitter and potential resonator. Several theoretical models suggest that DNA may contribute to photon emission dynamics and resonance-like behaviour under specific conditions, although functional interpretations remain under investigation.
Discussion: Ultra-weak cellular photon emission-especially the proposed DNA-linked mechanisms-remains a challenging yet promising field. Evidence…
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