Organic data memory using the DNA approach

Abstract

For very long-term storage and retrieval, encode information as artificial DNA strands and insert into living hosts. As vectors, bacteria, even some bugs and weeds, might be good for hundreds of millions of years.

On the Shannon capacity of DNA data embedding

“…If certain constraints are observed, DNA can also be used to convey additional arbitrary data [1,2,4,5,6,7]. It is a key fact that information embedded within DNA will travel alongside each replication, whether it takes place in vivo or in vitro, that is, whether it happens inside or outside living organisms.…”

“…By replacing or appending noncoding DNA (ncDNA) segments, which never get translated to proteins [1,2,3,4]. This amounts to transmitting an arbitrary digital signal, as one can freely establish the host segments that carry the information.…”

“…Long-term storage of data in the DNA of living organisms, such as bacteria, has been actually implemented with real organisms by Wong et al [2], Yachie et al [4], and other groups of researchers.…”

“…A number of methods have been proposed over the last ten years for mathematically embedding information within DNA, the molecule that constitutes the building block of life [1,2,3,4,5,6,7]. However, important issues related to DNA data embedding are not elucidated yet.…”

Writing Information into DNA

“…-DNA tag/antitag system which designs fixed-length short oligonucleotide tags for identifying biomolecules (e.g., cDNA), used primarily for monitoring gene expressions [2,3,4]. -DNA data storage which advocates the use of bacterial DNA as a long-lasting high-density data storage, which can also be resistant to radiation [5]. -DNA signature which is important for registering a copyright of engineered bacterial and viral genomes.…”