DNA encoding of digital information involves converting binary data into sequences of DNA nucleotides. In the case of Asimov Press' book, the process likely follows similar principles to those used by Harvard researchers:

• Binary data (0s and 1s) is translated into DNA bases, with A and C representing 0, and G and T representing 112.

• The information is divided into small blocks, each with a unique address to maintain order2.

• These DNA sequences are then synthesized using commercial DNA synthesizers3.

• The resulting DNA molecules can be stored on microarray chips or in solution2.

• To retrieve the information, the DNA is sequenced and the process is reversed to reconstruct the original data12.

This method allows for incredibly dense data storage, with potential capacities of up to a zettabyte per gram of DNA3. However, current costs and technological limitations make it impractical for widespread use, restricting it to specialized applications like Asimov Press' unique offering32.

CATALOG, a Boston-based company, has emerged as a pioneer in DNA-based digital data storage and computation. Unlike traditional approaches that focus on storing information densely inside DNA molecules, CATALOG's innovative method stores data in specific collections of DNA molecules1. This unique approach allows for greater flexibility in designing DNA sequences optimized for computing and significantly improves writing efficiency1.

• CATALOG developed Shannon, a prototype DNA writer that uses technology similar to inkjet printers to encode data23.

• The system can write at a speed of Mb/sec, generating over a trillion unique DNA molecules in a single run, equivalent to GB of data3.

• CATALOG's method decouples the DNA synthesis process from the encoding process, generating large quantities of a few different molecules and then creating diversity from these premade molecules4.

• The company has successfully encoded literary works into DNA, including "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" and "The Road Not Taken"4.

CATALOG's groundbreaking work in DNA synthesis and computation has attracted significant investment and attention, positioning the company to make DNA-based data storage and computing a commercial reality in the near future5.

Imagene's DNAshell® technology offers a groundbreaking solution for long-term DNA preservation at room temperature, addressing key challenges in DNA data storage. This innovative approach encapsulates highly dehydrated purified DNA in sealed stainless steel minicapsules under a controlled inert atmosphere1. The process eliminates exposure to degradation factors such as water, oxygen, and light, enabling DNA storage for potentially thousands of years without energy consumption12.

Key features of Imagene's technology include:

• Robust preservation in 0.7 mL, 1.3 g laser-sealed capsules2

• Room temperature storage with a calculated half-life of 50,000 years at 25°C2

• Zero ongoing energy costs for maintenance1

• High DNA storage capacity, allowing for Exabytes of data in a small volume2

• Compatibility with both synthetic and natural DNA1

• Extension to RNA preservation (RNAshell®) and other biospecimens34

Imagene's technology has garnered attention in the emerging DNA data storage industry, with applications ranging from biobanking to preserving historically significant documents like the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child2. As DNA data storage advances, Imagene's preservation method positions the company as a key player in ensuring the longevity and stability of DNA-encoded information.