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Scientists Just Built a Computer Out of DNA-and It Runs Without Electricity
Yahoo Tech • • science
Key Points:
- Researchers at Maynooth University in Ireland have developed one of the fastest DNA computers to date, using billions to trillions of DNA strands in a single drop of water to perform calculations.
- The DNA computer operates by forming "energetically favorable" structures without continuous energy input, relying on a DNA scaffold and shorter strands that settle into a lowest-energy state to produce answers.
- Tested on 700 calculations, the system achieved a 95% success rate, with simple problems solved in seconds and more complex ones taking hours, though it is slower than traditional silicon-based computers.
- DNA computers offer significant advantages in energy efficiency, parallel processing, and data storage capacity, with potential to outperform conventional machines on highly parallel tasks and store vast amounts of data.
- While not intended to replace everyday electronic devices, this technology represents a promising new direction in computing, leveraging biological molecules to expand computational possibilities.
