Cell-Based Genomic Memory for Nanoscale Data Recording
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current semiconductor-based data sensing devices face limitations in size reduction, energy consumption, and cost-effectiveness, making them unsuitable for nanoscale applications and large-area monitoring, whereas molecular elements like DNA and proteins offer higher volumetric bit density and energy efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A cell-based genomic Recorded Accumulative Memory (geRAM) system that records data in the genome or plasmid of a biological cell using directed endonucleases and inducible promoters, allowing for error-introduction upon signal exposure, which serves as a data record.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If semiconductor-based electronics are used for data sensing and recording, then device functionality is achieved, but size reduction is limited due to transistor scaling limits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces semiconductor-based electronic systems with a cell-based genomic system. Instead of using transistor-based integrated circuits for sensing and memory, the invention uses biological cells where genomic sequences serve as non-volatile memory and molecular sensors detect signals. This substitution enables nanoscale device dimensions while maintaining sensing and recording functionality through biological mechanisms rather than mechanical/electronic components.
2Use of energy by moving object
If semiconductor-based electronics are used, then data recording capability is achieved, but energy consumption is high compared to physical limits
Solution Approach 1:
The cell-based genomic system operates autonomously without requiring external power sources for data recording. The genomic memory naturally stores data through biological processes, and molecular sensors self-activate in response to signals. The system leverages the cell's inherent metabolic and repair processes to maintain and read data, eliminating the need for continuous energy input required by electronic systems while ensuring accurate data recording through the stability of genomic sequences.
3Area of stationary object
If high density sensors are deployed for large area monitoring, then coverage is improved, but cost increases due to manufacturing and deployment expenses
Solution Approach 1:
The cell-based sensor system uses readily available biological cells as sensing platforms, eliminating the need for expensive semiconductor manufacturing processes. The cells can be produced through standard biological culture methods at low cost. While individual cells have limited lifespans, their low production cost and ease of replacement make them economically viable for large-scale deployment across extensive monitoring areas, reducing overall system cost compared to permanent electronic sensors.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient data sensing and recording on the nanoscale with high bit density and low energy consumption, suitable for applications like monitoring large areas with high sensor densities.
Implementation Method 1
the promoter causes expression of the directed endonuclease wherein the expressed directed endonuclease binds to, and cuts the target sequence located within the cell
Implementation Method 2
wherein the cell is capable of repairing the cut in the target sequence and wherein the repair of the target sequence introduces at least one error in the target sequence
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a cell based genomic Recorded Accumulative Memory (geRAM) system (also referred to herein as Genomically Encoded Memory (GEM)) for recoding data (i.e., changes in nucleic acid sequences in cellular DNA in response to physical and/or chemical signal(s)) from the cellular environment.