ARE INTERMEDIATE STATES RESPONSIBLE FOR CERTAIN SPECIFIC PROPERTIES OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES

A new electron structural mechanism is proposed for interpretations in molecular biology, in addition to the already existing theories of Szent‐Györgyi (semiconductivity) and Fröhlich (long‐range coherence). The hypothetical “intermediate‐” or “zigzag states” (ZZS) of solids are investigated by the recursion (transfer matrix) method. The physical reality of the ZZS is discussed up to an SCF DODS‐type theory and the necessity of additional less approximate investigations is emphasized. The possible role of ZZS in the explanation of: (i) translation in protein synthesis, (ii) energy and charge transfer processes, as well as (iii) initiation of protein formation is outlined. Copyright © 1979 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.