It's a protein. (Who'd-a-thunk).
Called cryptochrome 4.
Nice evolutionary detail in this paper.
Now they have to figure out how c4 conformational changes result in nerve impulses. (Hint: it probably binds with transmembrane ion channels)
Called cryptochrome 4.
Nice evolutionary detail in this paper.
How evolution has optimized the magnetic sensor in birds
Migratory birds are able to navigate and orientate with astonishing accuracy using various mechanisms, including a magnetic compass. A team led by biologists Dr. Corinna Langebrake and Prof. Dr. Miriam Liedvogel from the University of Oldenburg and the Institute of Avian Research "Vogelwarte...
phys.org
Now they have to figure out how c4 conformational changes result in nerve impulses. (Hint: it probably binds with transmembrane ion channels)