Global Data Storage: Can You Store More Info in Human DNA than on Computers?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the claim made by Dr. Hilbert that human DNA can store approximately 300 times more information than all the digital data stored on computers globally. Participants express skepticism about this assertion, questioning the feasibility of such a comparison. The conversation encourages calculations involving the number of cells in the human body, the strands of DNA per cell, the base pairs in each strand, and the potential data capacity of each base pair to verify the claim.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic genetics, including DNA structure and function.
  • Familiarity with data storage concepts, particularly digital information capacity.
  • Knowledge of biological cell composition and the number of cells in the human body.
  • Basic mathematical skills for calculating data storage potential.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the data storage capacity of DNA and its comparison to digital storage systems.
  • Explore the calculations involved in determining the information density of DNA.
  • Investigate the implications of DNA data storage technology in biotechnology.
  • Learn about the advancements in synthetic biology and its applications in data storage.
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Biologists, data scientists, genetic researchers, and technology enthusiasts interested in the intersection of biology and information technology.

esmeralda4
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Hi everyone.

I've just read this article on the bbc.co.uk


http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-12419672

It says..

""The Human DNA in one single body can store around 300 times more information than we store in all our technological devices" according to Dr Hilbert."

Can this possibly be true??

All the digital information stored on everyone's computer in the world is less than the information stored in the DNA of one person?

Sounds a be far fetched to me. Any thoughts? Or is this more of a Biology questions!?

Thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
See if you can calculate it yourself: how many cells are in the body? How many strands of dna in each? How many base pairs in each strand? And how many bits could be stored in each base pair?
 

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