Geneticists have developed a data storage and processing system based on DNA and a gel that supports its structure. Such a system can store up to 10 thousand terabytes of information in one cubic centimeter. This method of storing information is not only capacious, but also stable - DNA in this form can be stored in a refrigerator for up to 6,000 years, and in a freezer for up to two million years, without losing the information recorded on it. Such a development will help in the future to create computers based on DNA, which will not require a lot of space to store arrays of data. The development was described in an article in the journal Nature Nanotechnology.

What was done with the information stored on DNA?

Unlike previously developed methods of storing information on DNA, this one can also work as a computer, allowing you to delete and overwrite individual files, as well as read data from the medium without destroying it. For this, the scientists used RNA, which in nature is an intermediate link between the information recorded in DNA and the product of processing this information — protein.

With the help of RNA, scientists managed to calculate several computer problems at the same time. They forced the DNA computer to play two versions of miniature chess and a miniature version of Sudoku—all puzzles using a three-by-three board.

Since the gel needs to be in an aqueous environment to read the information, and it is better to store the DNA dry, the scientists tested the system's resistance to drying. As it turned out, their development can withstand up to 172 cycles of drying and moistening.

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