IBM scientists create DNA-chip

IBM and fellow scientists at the California Institute of Technology created a computer chip by using synthesized DNA. Approach could pave the way for the emergence of small rings, which may form the basis of small computer chips more powerful.

DNA acts as a scaffold, where millions of carbon nanotubes may be imposed and self-assembly models, which would exactly match the DNA molecule, and may provide a way to overcome common challenges for processes or sub-22nm chips. Today PC faster chips are manufactured using 45 nanometer process.

Partners examined the link between graphic patterning lithography (a series of processes that form or change an existing form of stored materials) and self-assembly, the method of organization structure on the surface of DNA origami devices compatible with current semiconductor manufacturing.

The breakthrough is that the placement of DNA nanostructures can serve as a scaffold, or a miniature electronic circuits for precise assembly of components - such as carbon nanotubes, nanowires and nanoparticles - is substantially lower than possible with conventional dimensions of semiconductor production methods, according to IBM.

To chip, the scientists create the first models of the region to do, or poured graphic patterns, using conventional chip-manufacturing technology from IBM. Then pour the solution of DNA on the surface of silicon and small DNA nanostuctures as triangles, squares and stars (what scientists call DNA origami) to people to use lithography etched designs, which are to adhere to small form integrated circuits.

Detection of template material and storage conditions, which provide high selectivity so that only binds origami models "Arna sticky" and nowhere else has been useful in this process.

"The costs involved in the narrowing of features to improve performance is a limiting factor in compliance with the law step in Moore and groups of all semiconductor industry," said Spike Narayan, Manager, Science and Technology, IBM Research - Almaden.

"The combination of self-directed assembly of this invention technology may eventually lead to significant savings in the most expensive and complex chip-making," said Narayan.

Letter to the work, "Origin and orientation of DNA nanostructures on the surface of the lithography model," IBM researchers and Technology Research Institute in California, will be published in the September issue of Nature Nanotechnology, and is currently available here.