DNA Data Storage: A Generative Tool for Motif-based DNA Storage

This conference talk from FAST '25 explores a novel approach to DNA data storage using motif-based techniques. Learn about how researchers from Imperial College London are addressing the commercial viability challenges of DNA storage by developing a mathematical framework that generates DNA motifs (short sequences) conforming to predefined constraints. The presentation explains how using motifs instead of the traditional quaternary alphabet can increase write bandwidth and reduce costs in DNA synthesis. The speakers demonstrate their method's efficiency in generating constraint-compliant motifs compared to previous approaches, while explaining how DNA's high information density and durability make it a promising storage medium once cost and speed barriers are overcome. The research focuses on ensuring reliable assembly of motifs into polymers that accurately represent binary data while avoiding secondary structure formation issues.