Biological Hacking of Computers

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A University of Washington research group has developed a DNA sequence that can trigger a buffer overflow in specific sequencing machines, potentially allowing malicious software to take control of the computer. This innovation raises concerns about the security of DNA sequencing technology. One significant application discussed is embedding such sequences in engineered organisms to hinder unauthorized sequencing and reproduction. The concept aligns with previous efforts to encode digital information, like video, into DNA, showcasing DNA's potential as a medium for information storage, despite being fundamentally a chemical substance. The implications of introducing this DNA into viruses further complicate the discussion around biosecurity and the risks associated with synthetic biology.
BillTre
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I didn't know whether to put this in Biology and Medical or in Programing and Computer Science so I am putting it in General Discussion.
This article from Wired describes U. of Washington group that has produced a piece of DNA that when sequenced in a particular sequencing machine can produce a buffer overflow which would allow malicious software to take over running the computer.
The article describes their approach, some problems they had, and potential uses much better than I could.
To me the most interesting use mentioned was to put such a sequence into an engineered organism to make it more difficult for someone to sequence their engineered organism and reproduce it.
Someone has already encoded a piece of video in DNA sequence, so this is just another step in that direction.
 
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DNA is not a computer, although it does fit the bill as a way of coding information.
It's just complicated chemistry, not a conspiracy.
 
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BillTre said:
I didn't know whether to put this in Biology and Medical or in Programing and Computer Science so I am putting it in General Discussion.
This article from Wired describes U. of Washington group that has produced a piece of DNA that when sequenced in a particular sequencing machine can produce a buffer overflow which would allow malicious software to take over running the computer.
The article describes their approach, some problems they had, and potential uses much better than I could.
To me the most interesting use mentioned was to put such a sequence into an engineered organism to make it more difficult for someone to sequence their engineered organism and reproduce it.
Someone has already encoded a piece of video in DNA sequence, so this is just another step in that direction.
And if they put that DNA in a virus...
 
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