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Chemical unclonable functions based on operable random DNA pools

Author

Listed:
  • Anne M. Luescher

    (ETH Zürich)

  • Andreas L. Gimpel

    (ETH Zürich)

  • Wendelin J. Stark

    (ETH Zürich)

  • Reinhard Heckel

    (Technical University of Munich)

  • Robert N. Grass

    (ETH Zürich)

Abstract

Physical unclonable functions (PUFs) based on unique tokens generated by random manufacturing processes have been proposed as an alternative to mathematical one-way algorithms. However, these tokens are not distributable, which is a disadvantage for decentralized applications. Finding unclonable, yet distributable functions would help bridge this gap and expand the applications of object-bound cryptography. Here we show that large random DNA pools with a segmented structure of alternating constant and randomly generated portions are able to calculate distinct outputs from millions of inputs in a specific and reproducible manner, in analogy to physical unclonable functions. Our experimental data with pools comprising up to >1010 unique sequences and encompassing >750 comparisons of resulting outputs demonstrate that the proposed chemical unclonable function (CUF) system is robust, distributable, and scalable. Based on this proof of concept, CUF-based anti-counterfeiting systems, non-fungible objects and decentralized multi-user authentication are conceivable.

Suggested Citation

  • Anne M. Luescher & Andreas L. Gimpel & Wendelin J. Stark & Reinhard Heckel & Robert N. Grass, 2024. "Chemical unclonable functions based on operable random DNA pools," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 15(1), pages 1-11, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:15:y:2024:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-024-47187-7
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47187-7
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    References listed on IDEAS

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