DNA computer solves logic queries
Strands of DNA are designed to give off a green light corresponding to “yes”. The system devised by the researchers uses molecules to represent facts and rules. In this way, the team was able to use it to answer simple molecular “questions”….
First, they tried the system with simple “if… then…” propositions. One of these went as follows: “All men are mortal. Socrates is a man. Therefore, Socrates is mortal.” When fed a molecular rule (all men are mortal) and a molecular fact (Socrates is a man), the DNA computing system was able to answer the question “Is Socrates mortal?” correctly.
The answer was encoded in a flash of green light. Some of the DNA strands were equipped with a naturally glowing fluorescent molecule bound to a second molecule which keeps the light covered. A specialised enzyme, attracted to the part of the molecule representing the correct answer, would then remove this cover to let the light shine…. (more @ ScienceDaily)
