Stanford Researchers Announce ‘Living Computers’ Made from DNA and RNA That Function Inside Human Cells and Could Be Used to Diagnose Cancer
Technology breakthrough might eventually be used by pathologists to help diagnose disease using in vivo diagnostic testing methods
Researchers at Stanford University are another step closer to understanding how to make DNA and RNA function like computer chips fabricated from silicon. Their work could eventually form the basis for new types of diagnostic services that could be offered by clinical laboratories and anatomic pathology groups.
Stanford Bioengineers Develop Final Component for Biological Computer
Bioengineers at Stanford University have engineered a genetic circuit to behave like a transistor in individual living cells, according to a story published by the San Jose Mercury News. The achievement represents the final component of a simple biological computer that functions within individual cells of the body.
These biological computers could be used in several ways. They could screen for cancer, or be used to detect the presence of toxic chemicals. Some experts believe they could be used to guard against disease, reported the Mercury News. (more…)
