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.