Scientists build a DNA computer that can perform calculations in a drop of water

This programmable DNA computer can perform arithmetic without the continuous energy input needed by other systems.

By Kenna Hughes-Castleberry Edited by Keumars Afifi-Sabet , Laura Mondrag n Published 19 September 2026 In News When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here's how it works .

Computers powered by DNA have been in development for years, but this newest one can perform more calculations than its predecessors. (Image credit: BlackJack3D via Getty Images) Copy link Facebook X Reddit Pinterest Flipboard Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter Scientists have built a DNA-powered computer that can perform calculations using billions of molecules in a tiny drop of water.