Unveiling the Secrets of nonreciprocal molecule interactions
Researchers uncover a mechanism where molecules interact without external forces, shedding light on how simple matter evolves into complex structures and potential technological applications.
In a discovery, scientists from the University of Maine and Penn State have unveiled a new phenomenon: molecules engage in interactions without the influence of external forces.
Contrary to traditional scientific understanding, these non-reciprocal interactions defy the conventional rules governing fundamental forces like gravity and electromagnetism.
In our daily lives, we often witness interactions that don’t abide by the standard laws of attraction and repulsion. A classic example is the relationship between predators and prey—while the predator is drawn to its target, the prey instinctively flees. These non-reciprocal interactions are crucial for the intricate behaviors observed in living organisms.
Until now, scientists explained similar non-reciprocal interactions in microscopic systems, like bacteria, through hydrodynamic or other external forces. It was widely believed that similar mechanisms could elucidate interactions between individual molecules.
However, a study published in the esteemed journal Chem, led by UMaine’s theoretical physicist R. Dean Astumian in collaboration with Ayusman Sen and Niladri Sekhar Mandal from Penn State, presents a revelation. They’ve introduced a novel mechanism illustrating how single molecules engage in non-reciprocal interactions without the influence of hydrodynamic effects.
This mechanism hinges on the localized gradients of reactants and products generated by reactions facilitated by chemical catalysts, such as enzymes in biological systems. Remarkably, a catalyst’s response to these gradients, dictated by its unique properties, can result in a scenario where one molecule repels yet attracts another.
The “Eureka moment” for the researchers occurred during discussions when they realized that a property inherent in every catalyst, termed kinetic asymmetry, dictates the direction of response to concentration gradients. This property, intrinsic to enzymes, holds the potential for evolution and adaptation.
These non-reciprocal interactions, enabled by kinetic asymmetry, play a pivotal role in molecular interactions, potentially shaping the transition from simple matter to complexity. While prior research in “active matter” introduced such interactions via external forces, this study unveils a fundamental molecular mechanism.
Importance of kinetic asymmetry
Moreover, the importance of kinetic asymmetry extends to biomolecular machines’ directionality and has influenced the design of synthetic molecular motors and pumps.
Astumian, Sen, and Mandal’s collaboration seeks to uncover the organizational principles behind the loose associations of catalysts that might have constituted the earliest metabolic structures, paving the way for life’s evolution.
“We’re just scratching the surface, but understanding kinetic asymmetry holds promise in unraveling life’s evolution from basic molecules,” explains Astumian. “Not only does it offer insights into the complexity of matter, but it could also revolutionize the design of molecular machines and associated technologies.”
This breakthrough not only challenges existing paradigms in molecular interactions but also opens doors to a realm of possibilities—from deciphering life’s origins to innovating cutting-edge technologies.
SHOW COMMENT ()
