Abstract
BackgroundAs cell engineering technology advances, more complex synthetically designed cells and metabolically engineered cells are being developed. Engineered cells are important resources in industry. Similar to image watermarking, engineered cells should be watermarked for protection against improper use.ResultsIn this study, a DNA steganography methodology was developed to hide messages in variable regions (single nucleotide polymorphisms) of the genome to create hidden messages and thereby prevent from hacking. Additionally, to detect errors (mutations) within the encrypted messages, a block sum check algorithm was employed, similar to that used in network data transmission to detect noise-induced information changes.ConclusionsThis DNA steganography methodology could be used to hide secret messages in a genome and detect errors within the encrypted messages. This approach is expected to be useful for tracking cells and protecting biological assets (e.g., engineered cells).
Highlights
As cell engineering technology advances, more complex synthetically designed cells and metabolically engineered cells are being developed
As synthetic biology and metabolic engineering technologies advance, industrially important engineered cells are being developed; these cells are considered as biological assets that should be protected [1,2,3]
Conventional DNA watermarking methods involve the encryption of messages in the form of DNA sequences, which are inserted into the genome, e.g., as DNA barcodes, or which are mixed with unrelated DNA fragments to hide the messages [4,5,6,7]
Summary
As cell engineering technology advances, more complex synthetically designed cells and metabolically engineered cells are being developed. As synthetic biology and metabolic engineering technologies advance, industrially important engineered cells are being developed; these cells are considered as biological assets that should be protected [1,2,3]. Conventional DNA watermarking methods involve the encryption of messages in the form of DNA sequences, which are inserted into the genome, e.g., as DNA barcodes, or which are mixed with unrelated DNA fragments to hide the messages [4,5,6,7]. A message is converted to a quaternary digit string and replaced with a corresponding nucleotide sequence. This sequence, flanked by specific primer binding sites at both ends, is mixed with the fragmented human genome.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
