Electromagnetic field generated by microtubules

Microtubules are fascinating objects from multiple perspectives. A microtubule is a self-assembling structure with ferroelectric properties [1]. As a discrete electronic device, it is supposed to be the theoretically predicted [2] fourth basic circuit element [3]. Due to convenient geometry, it can serve as a circular waveguide and resonator [4]. Excitation–emission measurements revealed a wide spectrum from kHz up to UV region [5]. Among other functions, a network of microtubules is supposed to serve as the main generator of cellular electromagnetic field [6], providing tissue ordering, information transfer, computer-like brain activity, control of chemical reactions etc. A microtubule is a nonlinear structure composed of identical tubulin heterodimers containing electric dipoles. We have analysed the space–time coherence using classical dipole theory of generation of near electromagnetic field [7]. We assume that a structure with a spiral and axial periodicity enables interaction of the field components shifted in time by one or more oscillation periods and generation of coherent signals. Supplied energy can be coherently stored in oscillators with a high electrical quality, in the water-containing microtubule inner cavity, and in excited electrons at molecular orbitals and in “semiconduction” and “conduction” bands. The suggested model may be of a general nature, to be possibly applicable to some other helical structures with yet unexplained behaviour.

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