Solving generic decision problems by in-message computation in DNA-based molecular nanonetworks

Abstract

One of the biggest unsolved problems in nanonetwork research is the actual construction of the components required for building such networks. Most existing ideas are limited to partial solutions of construction of nanodevices, computation within them, and communication between them. While many ideas are promising, the problem remains how to combine those various building blocks into operational and efficient nanonetworks. In this paper we use DNA as the basic building block for all components of nanonetworks. The inherent properties of this molecule are used to assemble complex nanostructures. DNA can be utilized to create both nanodevices and a communication mechanism. Properly designed DNA-molecules can even be utilized for computational purposes. In summary, DNA forms the base for an exhaustive nanonetwork concept. This work specifically presents an approach how to solve arbitrary mathematical problems that can be modeled as boolean formulas using DNA-based nanonetworks by in-message computation. The computation itself is encoded in the assembly process of a message. This avoids often-stated space constraints for computations at the nanoscale, as the medium of transportation is commonly less constrained than the size of nanodevices dictates. This method thereby presents a constructive approach on how to actually create message molecules, rather than only proving the general possibility.