Regenerative Health with Max Gulhane, MD

100. Mitochondria, Origins of Life and the Physics of Aging | Prof. Alistair Nunn

Feb 10, 2026
Guest
Alistair Nunn
Prof. Alistair Nunn, a theoretical quantum biologist focused on bioenergetics and mitochondria, explores how light, water, magnetism and proton gradients shaped life. He discusses thermal vents, mitochondrial membrane potentials, biophotons, electron transport and how altered environments accelerate aging. Short, curious and wide-ranging conversation on origins, bioelectricity and the physics behind living systems.
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INSIGHT

Cells Produce Low-Level Biophotons

  • Cells produce extremely weak biophotons and may internally harness light for signalling and homeostasis.
  • Detecting true metabolic photons requires careful separation from delayed luminescence artifacts.
INSIGHT

Wavelength And Dose Shape Mitochondrial Response

  • Light of different wavelengths directly modulates electron transport chain complexes and mitochondrial function.
  • Responses are dose-dependent with low doses often stimulating and high doses inhibiting function.
INSIGHT

Medicinal Plants Began As Sunscreens

  • Many plant-derived compounds likely evolved as sunscreens and later became pleiotropic stress-resistance molecules in animals.
  • These phytochemicals often target mitochondria and cellular redox systems.
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