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Updated: Jun 11, 2025

DNA-Tethered RNA Polymerase for Programmable In vitro Transcription and Molecular Computation
Published on: December 29, 2021
Exploring DNA Computers: Advances in Storage, Cryptography and Logic Circuits
Xiaolin Xie1, Shuang Wang2, Zhi Chen1
1College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Artificial Functional Materials, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), ChemBioMed Interdisciplinary Research Center at Nanjing University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China.
Abstract:
Over the last four decades, research on DNA as a functional material has primarily focused on its predictable conformation and programmable interaction. However, its low energy consumption, high responsiveness and sensitivity also make it ideal for designing specific signaling pathways, and enabling the development of molecular computers. This review mainly discusses recent advancements in the utilization of DNA nanotechnology for molecular computer, encompassing applications in storage, cryptography and logic circuits. It elucidates the challenges encountered in the application process and presents solutions exemplified by representative works. Lastly, it delineates the challenges and opportunities within this filed.
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