'Fossilized' DNA May Store Humanity's Knowledge for Over a Million Years

Imagine using DNA to store knowledge--not just genetic knowledge, but also information about culture and technology. Now, scientists have found that it may be possible to use DNA to store large amounts of information in a compact manner.

Two years ago, researchers demonstrated that data could be saved and reread in the form of DNA. In that case, the time period between "writing" the information-the synthesis of the corresponding coding sequence of the DNA-and the reading of the data was very short. But even this short period presented a problem in terms of the margin of error; mistakes occur in the writing and reading of DNA, and over the longer term DNA can change significantly as it reacts chemically with the environment.

In this case, the researchers decided to see if there was a way around this issue. Genetic material in fossilized bones can be isolated and analyzed, since it's been isolated and protected. Knowing this, the researchers created a synthetic "fossil shell." They encapsulated DNA in silica spheres with a diameter of roughly 150 nanometers. Then they stored the spheres at a temperature between 60 to 70 degrees Celsius for up to a month to simulate time passing.

What did they find? The DNA-encoded information could, in theory, survive over a million years encapsulated in the spheres. Yet it's also important to avoid substantial damage to the DNA. The researchers found a way to correct errors that were created over long time periods based on the Reed-Solomon Codes. This allowed the scientists to retrieve information error-free.

The findings reveal a possible new way to store information. By using DNA, it's possible to create a way to store knowledge for future generations.

The findings are published in the journal Angewandte Chemie International Edition.

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