Scientists crack the code to using DNA like a computer hard drive
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a method that could allow DNA to function like a rewritable hard drive, overcoming a major limitation of earlier DNA storage systems. DNA-based storage encodes digital data into synthetic strands using the molecule’s four-letter structure (A, C, G, T), offering extreme density and long-term durability with minimal energy use. The breakthrough involves a nanopore sensor that can read and potentially rewrite stored information, making updates possible rather than permanent, archive-only storage. While still years away from commercial use, the technology could dramatically reduce the environmental footprint of data centers.