Donatas Zigmantas

Dynamic quantum effects in biological systems is a hotly debated question, which since recently has been experiencing renewed wave of broad attention [1]. This discussion was initiated by the application of the multidimensional spectroscopy techniques for investigating dynamics in biological complexes. Is nature really optimized to use non-trivial quantum effects, like dynamically evolving coherent superpositions to optimize biological functions, or we observe the beatings of quantum coherences, because we use lasers that are coherent light sources, which are quite different from incoherent sunlight utilized by biological organisms? These are difficult questions that require consideration of the essence of quantum mechanics. An important step towards improved understanding in this area is investigation of the origin of coherent beatings observed in the measurements. Only the beatings with electronic character can in principle indicate the importance of dynamical quantum mechanical effects.