L2C

Biophysics

This research theme focuses on the behavior of proteins in aqueous solution using Lab-on-Chip platforms based on near-field THz photoconductivity measurements (Figure (a)). The goal is to reveal phenomena analogous to those observed in solid-state physics, such as phonon condensation [Phys. Rev. X 8, 031061 (2018)].

Proteins exhibit vibrational modes, known as normal modes. When the energy input exceeds a critical threshold (Figure (b)), a phase transition occurs: the energy is no longer evenly distributed among the modes but instead becomes concentrated in the lowest-frequency mode, at the expense of the others. This phenomenon, called phonon condensation, can under certain concentration and energy conditions give rise to long-range electrodynamic forces [Sci. Adv., adv0346 (2025); Sci. Adv., abl5855 (2022)].

These forces act over distances two orders of magnitude greater than those involved in classical interactions such as van der Waals or hydrogen bonding. They could offer new insight into the mechanisms governing intracellular organization.

This research is supported by the European EIC project LINkS (Grant 964303) — https://project-links.eu/

Experimental observation of phonon condensation in proteins using THz spectroscopy (a–b), and interaction potential between proteins as a function of their separation distance (c). These long-range attractive forces can act over distances up to one thousand ångströms — more than two orders of magnitude beyond typical biological interaction ranges such as hydrogen bonds, van der Waals forces, or Coulomb interactions. Credits: Sci. Adv., adv0346 (2025); Sci. Adv., abl5855 (2022).