dna

[David Farber <dave () farber net>]

________________________________________
From: lynn [lynn () ecgincc com]
Sent: Wednesday, July 23, 2008 1:16 PM
To: David Farber
Subject: dna

The implications of this are incredible.

http://www.computerweekly.com/Articles/2008/07/22/231591/dna-offers-radical-computer-rethink.htm

DNA offers radical computer rethink

A team of researchers at the University of Toyama in Japan, led by
Masahiko Inouye, claim to have created the world's first stable artificial
DNA molecules, made from synthesised nucleosides that resemble their
natural counterparts.

DNA is made up of four basic building blocks, or bases, which code
proteins used in cell functioning and development. While other researchers
have developed DNA molecules with a few select artificial parts, the
Japanese team put together four completely new artificial bases inside the
framework of a DNA molecule, creating unusually stable, double-stranded
structures resembling natural DNA.

The scientists say the artificial DNA acts like the real thing, and even
forms right-handed duplexes with complementary artificial strands. They
hope to one day use their discovery to create a new biological information
storage system that functions outside the cell. Artificial DNA could be
advantageously used instead of natural DNA due to its stability against
naturally occurring enzymes and its structural diversity.

The unique chemistry of these artificial bases and DNA structures, coupled
with their high stability, offers limitless possibilities for new
biotechnology materials and applications, such as the creation of powerful
DNA computers. These computers are constructed using DNA as software and
enzymes as hardware, rather than traditional silicon-based components. By
mixing DNA and enzymes in this way and monitoring the reactions, complex
computer calculations can be performed.

snip




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