Random access elevates DNA from a storage medium to a storage system

DNA has emerged as a promising medium for next-generation information storage due to its ultra-high storage density, long-term stability, and low energy consumption. With the rapid growth of global digital data, DNA storage provides a potential alternative to conventional electronic media. Dynamic random access, which allows selective retrieval of target information without reading the entire dataset, is essential for the practical application of DNA storage. Recent advances in PCR-based indexing, hybridization-assisted retrieval, and electrically controlled addressing have significantly improved access efficiency. However, challenges such as limited primer capacity, amplification bias, and molecular crosstalk still restrict large-scale implementation. This review highlights recent progress, current challenges, and future perspectives for achieving efficient and reliable large-scale DNA data storage systems.