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Human cryptochrome exhibits light-dependent magnetosensitivity

Author

Listed:
  • Lauren E. Foley

    (University of Massachusetts Medical School)

  • Robert J. Gegear

    (University of Massachusetts Medical School
    Present address: Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609, USA.)

  • Steven M. Reppert

    (University of Massachusetts Medical School)

Abstract

Humans are not believed to have a magnetic sense, even though many animals use the Earth's magnetic field for orientation and navigation. One model of magnetosensing in animals proposes that geomagnetic fields are perceived by light-sensitive chemical reactions involving the flavoprotein cryptochrome (CRY). Here we show using a transgenic approach that human CRY2, which is heavily expressed in the retina, can function as a magnetosensor in the magnetoreception system of Drosophila and that it does so in a light-dependent manner. The results show that human CRY2 has the molecular capability to function as a light-sensitive magnetosensor and reopen an area of sensory biology that is ready for further exploration in humans.

Suggested Citation

  • Lauren E. Foley & Robert J. Gegear & Steven M. Reppert, 2011. "Human cryptochrome exhibits light-dependent magnetosensitivity," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 2(1), pages 1-3, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:2:y:2011:i:1:d:10.1038_ncomms1364
    DOI: 10.1038/ncomms1364
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    Cited by:

    1. Jin-Hua Ouyang, 2019. "The Hyperfine Coupling Radical Pair Mechanism of Biological Effects on Weak Magnetic Fields," Asian Engineering Review, Asian Online Journal Publishing Group, vol. 6(1), pages 1-8.
    2. Jin-hua Ouyang & Hong-zhen Li, 2017. "Biological Effects Due to Hypomagnetic Field and Its Research Progress," Journal of Life Sciences Research, Asian Online Journal Publishing Group, vol. 4(2), pages 14-19.

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