What's Happening?
Researchers at the Dresden University of Technology in Germany are exploring the need for a new thermodynamic law specifically for living systems. Current thermodynamic laws, which deal with heat and entropy, are insufficient for accurately describing
the complex processes within living cells. The study involved experiments with HeLa human cells, a line of cancer cells, to understand how disequilibrium in living systems differs from non-living systems. The researchers used chemicals to halt cell division and employed an atomic force microscope to probe cell membranes, assessing fluctuations and changes when certain cellular processes were interrupted. They found that traditional thermodynamic concepts like 'effective temperature' were imprecise for living systems, suggesting that 'time reversal asymmetry' might be a more useful measure. This concept examines how biological processes would differ if they ran backward in time, highlighting the purposeful nature of biological activities.
Why It's Important?
The study's findings are significant as they propose a new way to understand the disequilibrium inherent in living systems, which is crucial for survival and proliferation. By identifying 'time reversal asymmetry' as a key measure, researchers can better understand how far living systems are from equilibrium, which has implications for biology and medicine. This research could lead to the development of a fourth law of thermodynamics applicable to living matter, enhancing our understanding of biological processes. Such advancements could impact fields like biotechnology and medical research, offering new insights into cellular behavior and potentially leading to novel therapeutic approaches.
What's Next?
The research team aims to derive a new thermodynamic law specifically for living systems, focusing on processes with a set point. They are working on identifying physiological observables in cells where such a law could be applied. This ongoing research may lead to a deeper understanding of biological systems and their unique properties, potentially influencing future studies in biology and related fields. The development of a new thermodynamic law could also prompt further exploration into the fundamental principles governing life, offering new perspectives on how living systems maintain their functions.
