MIT Develops Polymer for Room-Temperature DNA Storage

New amber-like material offers a scalable, energy-efficient alternative to freezing for preserving genetic and digital data.

The polymer can store DNA at room temperature, protecting it from heat and moisture damage.
Researchers successfully stored and retrieved DNA sequences, including an entire human genome, without errors.
The technology, named T-REX, uses a degradable thermoset to encapsulate and release DNA safely.
Potential applications include long-term data storage and personalized medicine.
The development addresses the high costs and scalability issues associated with current DNA preservation methods.