Bacterial Communication: The Possible Role of Quorum Sensing, Quantum Mechanics, and Quantum Tunneling

Abstract

Bacteria in the human intestinal tract express more than 46 million genes, suggesting that interbacterial communication and communication with human cells are well-controlled and synchronized. Many papers have been published on quorum sensing (QS) and other forms of bacterial communication, e.g., nanotubes, nanovibrations, and electromagnetism. Autoinducers (AIs) such as AI-1 N-acyl homoserine lactones (AHLs), AI-2 boron-containing furanosyl borate diesters, AI-3 pyrazinone derivatives, a combination of AI-3/Epi (epinephrine)/NE (norepinephrine), auto-inducer peptides (AIPs), and SdiA (suppressor of division inhibition), along with their receptors, have been well-studied. However, little is known about the roles of quantum mechanics, quantum tunneling, and quantum entanglement in bacterial communication. Most proposals are hypothetical and remain conceptual frameworks supported by indirect evidence rather than validated experiments. The wave-like behavior of ions (quantum tunneling) may facilitate crossing potential energy barriers, such as cell membranes, in concert with protein channels. If this is indeed the case, ions in a quantum-tunneling state would, hypothetically, be able to pass through any part of the cell membrane and cell wall. This would, in theory, enhance biochemical reactions, interbacterial communication, and interactions with human cells. The long-range signaling ability of quanta could allow bacterial cells to maintain contact over long distances, modify their metabolic activities, and activate DNA repair systems. The wave-like behavior of subatomic particles and molecules may cause nanovibrations and generate electromagnetic fields. We argue that electrical signals generated within a biofilm by quanta may attract distant cells and enable cross-species communication. We propose a hypothetical “two-pillar” bacterial communication system, i.e., QS and quantum mechanics/tunneling/entanglement (QMTE), and discuss the advantages of combining both.