Element zero actually forms nodules in the body, and an electrical charge triggers the mass effect field regardless of the application. In most species, an implant is necessary to produce electrical charges strong enough to accomplish much, but asari have an unusual physiology in that regard.

[Which in turn has to do with their method of reproduction. She won't go into that unless she has to.]

It does not have anything to do with a connection to other dimensional planes, but yes, I do see the potential for similarities.