High-Security Data Encryption Enabled by DNA Multi-Strand Solid-Phase Hybridization and Displacement in Inkjet-Printed Microarrays

Multicolor fluorescent encryption systems that respond
to specific
stimuli have drawn widespread attention to data storage and encryption
due to their low cost and facile data access. However, existing encryption
systems are limited by encryption materials, restricting their encryption
depth. This study uses DNA molecules as encryption materials that
offer exceptional specificity and encryption depth within sequences.
With inkjet-printed microarrays on a solid-phase interface, a multicolor
fluorescent data storage system based on DNA hybridization and strand
displacement is developed, achieving an encryption system with high
encryption depth and flexibility. DNA strands, modified with different
fluorescent labels, are delivered onto solid-phase interfaces containing
a DNA self-assembled monolayer (SAM) via inkjet printing, forming
multicolor fluorescent data microarrays. Data storage and encryption
are achieved through the hybridization of fluorescent DNA strands
for data presentation and interference with the DNA SAM at the interface
between the solid phase and droplets. Interference DNA strands can
be removed by DNA strand displacement for decryption. The encryption
depth of this system is determined by the design of the DNA sequences
and the combination of multiple DNA strands, showcasing its outstanding
encryption ability. Meanwhile, high-throughput inkjet printing accelerates
the data writing process, further enhancing the system efficiency.
With DNA solid-phase reaction in inkjet-printed microarrays, this
system provides a scalable and robust strategy for high-depth and
efficient data encryption.