Nowadays we are so used to our digital calculators that we forget that we can also calculate in other ways. Inspired by processes in living cells, chemist researched Albert Wong from the University of Twente whether we can adapt a system of molecules in such a way that you can carry out mathematical assignments with it.
Why did you want to calculate molecules?
‘In recent years, many scientists have tried to imitate the brain. But when we do this with the help of today’s computers, it takes much more energy than when living brain cells perform a task. That makes sense, because the basis of our current computers is very different from that of living cells. We hope that we can imitate the brain with our system.’
Can you even imitate brain cells with a computer?
‘That depends on what you consider a computer. When Alan Turing came up with the concept of a computer, he was not so much looking for the system that would allow you to… computing can do, perform calculations, but especially with the question of what, in theory and in nature, ensures that calculations are made.
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A living cell consists of many different molecules, which together form a system. Such a system is also called a chemical reaction network. Chemical reaction networks can do all kinds of things. They can keep themselves alive, they can adapt themselves and they can actually do math.
Because those networks all communicate with each other, and that requires calculations. We know that these regulations are different in nature than with digital computers, we just don’t yet understand exactly what those rules look like. In our research we looked for a building block with which we could calculate such a chemical reaction network itself.’
Have you found that building block?
‘Yes. The basis for this is an autocatalytic reaction. That is a reaction that accelerates itself. To be able to calculate this, you need control over how that reaction accelerates. In our research we used three types of metal ions, which allowed us to determine when the reaction sped up, slowed down and sometimes stopped. With this we have found a basis for performing mathematical operations.’
How did you do that?
‘We worked on a chip made of polydimethylsiloxane, a type of plastic. To this we added molecules dissolved in a liquid. By constantly supplying molecules and removing residual products, we prevent the reaction network from reaching an equilibrium, where no more reactions take place. Compare it with our cells: we constantly need nutrients and there are always waste products that leave our body. In a stagnant equilibrium, our cells do not perform their functions. It also works that way in chemistry. We can determine very precisely how much of a substance we add and with this we can program our chemical reaction networks.’
What can you calculate with such a chip?
‘We have shown in our research that you can program linear and quadratic equations with our system. You can also perform logical functions. These are the basic operations that digital computers perform. The difference is that these functions in our network only exist temporarily. Just like in nature, there is no real storage. We enable such a function when it is needed. All this makes our approach more sustainable than that with digital computers.’
Albert Wong is an associate professor within the department of molecules and materials at the University of Twente. He published with a team of researchers Nature Communications on the programmability of chemical reaction networks.
Image: Sanne Vaarhorst
Calculating Molecules: Forget Your Digital Age
Ah, the digital age! Where calculators sit quietly on our desks, waiting for that moment of math desperation. But what if I told you that we might be able to do calculations without ever clicking a single button? That’s right! We’re not just talking about cunning shortcuts at the bar to calculate tips. No, no! We’re talking real, chemical reactions! Thanks to the brilliant mind of chemist Albert Wong from the University of Twente, we may just be on the brink of a new era in computation—one that draws inspiration from the clever world of living cells!
Why did you want to calculate molecules?
Now, why, you ask, would they want to take up such a scientific endeavor? Well, according to Wong, “Many scientists have tried to imitate the brain.” And let’s be honest, if I could have a computer that functioned like my brain after a few pints, I’d be all for it! He points out that our current electronics require a boatload of energy—more energy than it takes for a brain cell to perform a task. Obviously, they haven’t seen my brain after a particularly long night out! What they really want is to tap into those crafty little brain cells with a molecular twist.
Can you even imitate brain cells with a computer?
This brings us to the question at hand: can we even imitate brain cells with a computer? Wong’s answer: “That depends on what you consider a computer.” Huh, philosophical, isn’t it? It’s like asking if a dog is still a pet if it chooses to leave you for a better food bowl. He refers to Turing’s ideas, indicating that it’s less about the machine and more about understanding the underlying processes that allow calculations to happen—an idea that’s as elusive as my last diet plan!
But let’s talk about living cells—those marvelous little units of biological engineering. They function on a chemical reaction network that does everything from keeping us alive to performing math. Who knew mitochondria had such a practical side? They make calculations while we’re just trying to figure out how many carbs we can eat at lunch!
Have you found that building block?
So, have they found their magical “building block” for calculations? Drum roll, please! The answer is a resounding yes! This block is known as an autocatalytic reaction—essentially a reaction that speeds itself up like me at a buffet, which, in this context, could lead to performing mathematical operations.
How did you do that?
Now here’s where it gets super interesting: Wong and his team crafted a chip made from polydimethylsiloxane. Sounds fancy, doesn’t it? Adding molecules in liquid form, they strategically controlled reactions—kind of like managing a relationship with your in-laws. They had to constantly feed the reaction network while simultaneously getting rid of waste, just like how we detox after holidays. This meticulous balance avoids that stagnant equilibrium where nothing happens. Who knew chemistry could be so relatable?
What can you calculate with such a chip?
So, what can we accomplish with these chemical chips? As Wong explained, they can tackle linear and quadratic equations, and yes, perform those logical functions we’re all familiar with from our mediocre high school math classes! The catch? These functions are temporary—just like my commitment to gym memberships. It’s functioning wonderfully while it’s needed, and when not, poof! Gone! They assert that this unique approach is more sustainable than what we see with conventional digital computers. Now that’s an eco-friendly solution we can all raise a glass to!
Albert Wong, as an associate professor within the department of molecules and materials, is leading the charge into this brave new world of chemical computing. You can check out his findings in Nature Communications. Who knew chemistry could be so practical—and entertaining!
Image: Sanne Vaarhorst
