This bio-computer consumes 10,000 times less energy than a conventional machine

German researchers have unveiled a biocomputer that requires only a tiny amount of energy to operate. Involving a particular type of molecule, such an approach could make it possible to carry out complex calculations in record time.

Use biomolecules to perform complex calculations

Turning to biology could be an effective way to reduce the energy consumption of future computers. In the context of work published in the journal ACS Nanoscience AuTill Korten and his colleagues at the Dresden University of Technology have developed a glass molecular chipcomprising a particular network of channels which corresponds to the problem which the computer must solve.

The calculation is carried out via the injection of a fluid containing microtubules (microscopic tubes that are part of the internal scaffolding of cells) and kinesinsproteins that normally move along them and transport other molecules.

” Our design relies on the reverse process, with microtubules ‘packing’ the kinesins into the channels of the chip. Since they all move at the same time, many calculations can be performed simultaneously “explains Korten. ” Each path taken by the microtubules corresponds to a potential solution to the problem ‘coded’ in the glass, these results are then examined in order to determine the most effective. »

A high-performance molecular computer

According to the authors of the study, this device consuming 10,000 times less energy than a conventional computer can solve complex combinatorial problems (which would take traditional machines billions of years) by performing 128 times fewer calculations than the most efficient biocomputers using the same technique.

” These molecular motors, involved in the fundamental processes of living cells, have been shaped by a billion years of evolution “, explains Korten. ” So they evolved to be as efficient as possible. »

Although this new molecular computer is by far the most powerful in its class, the German researcher specifies that its use for practical purposes (including in particular the resolution of logistical problems) will require the incorporation of a wider range of molecules.