DNA storage: research landscape and future prospects

Natl Sci Rev. 2020 Jun;7(6):1092-1107. doi: 10.1093/nsr/nwaa007. Epub 2020 Jan 21.

Abstract

The global demand for data storage is currently outpacing the world's storage capabilities. DNA, the carrier of natural genetic information, offers a stable, resource- and energy-efficient and sustainable data storage solution. In this review, we summarize the fundamental theory, research history, and technical challenges of DNA storage. From a quantitative perspective, we evaluate the prospect of DNA, and organic polymers in general, as a novel class of data storage medium.

Keywords: DNA storage; compilation; information; sequencing.