Scribd
Upload
57 views1 page

Biological Computing Fundamentals and Futures

The document provides an overview of biological computing fundamentals and futures. It introduces biological computing as a new paradigm that crosses computing and biology. It discusses how microorganisms like DNA could power computers instead of silicon chips. While silicon chip miniaturization will eventually hit limits, biological computing based on DNA is presented as a potential future direction for computing. The paper aims to provide a basic understanding of biological concepts like microorganisms that could impact computing.

Uploaded by

Hernan Benites
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
57 views1 page

Biological Computing Fundamentals and Futures

The document provides an overview of biological computing fundamentals and futures. It introduces biological computing as a new paradigm that crosses computing and biology. It discusses how microorganisms like DNA could power computers instead of silicon chips. While silicon chip miniaturization will eventually hit limits, biological computing based on DNA is presented as a potential future direction for computing. The paper aims to provide a basic understanding of biological concepts like microorganisms that could impact computing.

Uploaded by

Hernan Benites
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 1

Biological Computing Fundamentals and Futures

Balaji Akula & James Cusick


Wolters Kluwer Corporate Legal Services
New York, NY
{balaji.akula; james.cusick}@wolterskluwer.com

Abstract chip. Such limitation will not prevent us from


progression. The route is clear but the ways to
The fields of computing and biology have begun reach it may be unusual. Imagine having billions
to cross paths in new ways. In this paper a of Deoxyribonucleic (DNA) acids instead of
review of the current research in biological silicon chips powering the computer. The fact
computing is presented. Fundamental concepts that silicon chips will even be replaced will be
are introduced and these foundational elements anathema to some but we are well on our way
are explored to discuss the possibilities of a new for some surprises. Hence it is imperative that
computing paradigm. We assume the reader to software engineers have an understanding even
possess a basic knowledge of Biology and if it just includes the basics of microorganisms
Computer Science. and how they will impact computing.

Our fascination and its logical conclusion, which


Introduction is reflected in this paper, is due to the behavioral
similarity between microorganisms (DNA) and
It is easy to miss nature’s influence and computers. As soon as you understand what
subsequent impact on living forms. This applies microorganisms can do, then relating that to a
to our day to day activities as well. Humans use computer or program that runs on a computer
a variety of gadgets and gizmos without becomes easy. Much like microorganisms,
realizing that the gadget could be working on a computers have evolved over a period of time.
pattern already patented and perfected by However time will tell if DNA will indeed play
Mother Nature. Computers and software are no a prominent role in their march to future glory. It
exception. The last few decades have ushered in is our endeavor to shed light on biological
the age of computers. Electronics have invaded computing thru a lay person’s eyes.
all walks of life and we depend on electronics to
accomplish most of our day to day activities. As
predicted by Dr. Gordon E. Moore, modern day Concept
electronics has progressed with miniaturization
of electronic components. According to Dr. This paper talks about how two diverse systems,
Moore, the miniaturization of integrated biology and computers are brought together to
electronics will continue to be bettered once take mankind into the future. A basic
every 12 – 18 months with a reduction in cost understanding of the lowest unit
(Moore, 1965). True to his prediction modern (Deoxyribonucleic acid - DNA) of life will help.
day chips have up to 1 million transistors per People should not imagine that DNA will
mm2. However as with other things, replace the CPU in biological computing. In our
miniaturization cannot continue forever, the opinion such a scenario is at least two decades or
laws of nature and in particular physics will more away from reality. As like other inventions
soon catch up to impose a limit on the silicon one can safely anticipate or expect baby steps in

  1

You might also like