Cryptochromes are a type of protein found in many living organisms, including plants, animals, and humans. They play a crucial role in sensing light and regulating biological processes such as circadian rhythms, which help organisms maintain their internal clocks in sync with the day-night cycle. In addition to their role in circadian rhythms, cryptochromes are also involved in magnetoreception, the ability of some animals to detect Earth's magnetic field for navigation. This unique function has been observed in species like birds, which use cryptochromes in their eyes to help them migrate over long distances.