IBM Scientists Build Computer Chips From DNA

snydeq writes "Scientists at IBM are experimenting with using DNA molecules as a way to create tiny circuits that could form the basis of smaller, more powerful computer chips. The technique builds on work done by Cal Tech's Paul Rothemund, who found that DNA molecules can be made to 'self-assemble' into tiny forms [PDF] such as triangles, squares and stars. 'To make a chip, the scientists first create lithographic templates using traditional chip making techniques. After, they pour a DNA solution over the surface of the silicon and the tiny triangles and squares — what the scientists call DNA origami — line themselves up to the patterns etched out using lithography.' DNA-based chips may sound like crackpot tech, but those involved believe the methodology could lead to a new way of fabricating features on the surface of chips that allows semiconductors to be made even smaller, faster and more power-efficient than they are today."

Nanofabrication

[neonprimetime]

"The degree of difficulty of nanofabrication is going up rapidly," Wallraff said.

Tell me about it! I can hardly keep up.

DNA is smaller?

[Anonymous Coward]

How do they intend to make circuits smaller than current lithography methods allow when the DNA solution is aligning itself to lithograph etchings? Further work required, methinks.

Re:why DNA?

[Peter Steil]

More than likely because in the present age anything with even a hint at DNA or genetics tends to bring up stock value. Think of it like a buzz word.

Re:why DNA?

[DragonWriter]

I'm trying to figure out why the researchers are using DNA. Is it...

A - some unique and intrinsic property of DNA that makes it suited for the job.
(If so, then is it just coincidence that our genetic information is stored in a molecule that has these unique properties?)

That's part of it; I wouldn't describe it as coincidence that a molecule that forms one of the basic information storage mechanisms which allows life to exist has properties that are useful in information technology, though.

B - just that DNA has been so well-studied in the last half century that we can manipulate it better (and cheaper) than most other complex micro-structures?

Well, yeah, there is some of that, too.

Re:And when will it become self-aware?

[PitaBred]

DNA is just information. How well does a hard drive compute? Not very well. It has some computing capability, but to really make it do something interesting you have to hook it up to the rest of the computer. Same with DNA in relation to cells.