DNA Data Storage Synthesis Using Addressable Electrodes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing biomolecule-based information storage systems lack scalability, automation, and efficiency, necessitating a need for improved methods to generate biomolecules for efficient and accurate data storage.

Innovation Solution

The use of solid support-based nucleic acid synthesis and storage systems, incorporating addressable electrodes and digital fluidics, allows for precise control of polynucleotide synthesis and storage, increasing density and reducing turnaround time through localized reagent manipulation and electrochemical control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional biomolecule-based information storage systems are used, then data storage capacity is achieved, but scalability and automation are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesynthesis throughputVSAvoidautomation level
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical synthesis methods with electrochemical control systems. Addressable electrodes enable precise, automated control of polynucleotide synthesis at each locus through electrical signals, eliminating manual intervention and enabling high-throughput automated production of DNA-based storage media.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the control parameter from mechanical operations to electrical parameters. By using addressable electrodes with controllable voltage/current, the system achieves automated, scalable control over synthesis conditions, allowing parallel processing of multiple loci and significantly improved productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If conventional nucleic acid synthesis methods are used, then polynucleotide production is achieved, but sequence density and turnaround time are suboptimal

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesequence densityVSAvoidturnaround time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the synthesis surface into multiple addressable loci, each capable of independent polynucleotide synthesis. This segmentation allows parallel synthesis of numerous sequences simultaneously, increasing overall throughput and reducing turnaround time while maintaining high sequence density through precise spatial control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary positioning and preparation of reagents at each locus before synthesis begins. Addressable electrodes are pre-configured and reagents are delivered in advance, enabling immediate initiation of synthesis when needed, thus reducing turnaround time without compromising sequence density.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of manufacture

If manual reagent manipulation is used, then synthesis control is achieved, but reagent utilization efficiency is low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesynthesis controlVSAvoidreagent utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service through electrochemical control at addressable loci. The system automatically manages reagent delivery and consumption at each electrode location, eliminating manual manipulation. Reagents are precisely delivered only where and when needed, maximizing utilization efficiency and minimizing waste.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system applies local quality control by enabling independent reagent manipulation at each addressable locus. This localized control ensures reagents are delivered precisely where needed, improving utilization efficiency while maintaining easy synthesis control through the addressable electrode array.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

4Quantity of substance

If high sequence density is achieved, then storage capacity increases, but synthesis complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage capacityVSAvoidsynthesis system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs universal addressable electrodes that can control multiple synthesis reactions simultaneously. Each electrode serves multiple functions: controlling reagent delivery, monitoring synthesis progress, and enabling parallel operations across numerous loci. This multi-functionality increases storage capacity through high sequence density while managing system complexity through standardized, reusable components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

This approach enhances storage capacity and efficiency by enabling higher sequence density, reduced cycle times, and improved reagent utilization, while maintaining data stability over time.

Implementation Method 1

at least one sidewall electrode located on a sidewall of each of the wells, wherein the electrochemical generation of reagents is spatially separated from a polynucleotide attachment point to the synthesis surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrochemical control: Electrochemiluminescence

Implementation Method 2

a solid support comprising a plurality of wells, each well comprising an addressable locus

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhysical containment: Physical Containment

Data Source

PatentEP3735459B1DNA-based digital information storage
Publication Date: 2026.03.04 ATLAS DATA STORAGE INC
  • EP3735459B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3735459B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3735459B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Provided herein are compositions, devices, systems and methods for generation and use of biomolecule-based information for storage. Further provided are devices comprising addressable electrodes controlling polynucleotide synthesis (deprotection, extension, or cleavage, etc.) The compositions, devices, systems and methods described herein provide improved storage, density, and retrieval of biomolecule-based information.