Biocatalytic Paradigms for Unconventional Information Processing

Abstract

Here we present an analysis of a new unconventional computing paradigm based on chemical reactions catalyzed by enzymes. This distinct concept hinges on the specificity of biocatalysts and selects chemical changes as information bits. The present review unveils the development of enzyme-based computing -from single Enzyme Logic Gates performing Boolean operations to some examples of concatenated networks. Inputs are defined as chemicals or as the biocatalyst, while the system output is read via optical or electrochemical means. The coupling of enzyme logic gates to signal-responsive interfaces is also developed, thus providing an approach to integrate enzymatic biocomputing into existing technology.