This paper explores the architectural implications of integrating computation and molecular probes to form nanoscale sensor processors (nSP). We show how nSPs may enable new computing domains and automate tasks that currently require expert scientific training and costly equipment. This new application domain severely constrains nSP size, which significantly impacts the architectural design space. In this context, we explore nSP architectures and present an nSP design that includes a simple accumulator-based ISA, sensors, limited memory and communication transceivers. To reduce the application memory footprint, we introduce the concept of instruction-fused sensing. We use simulation and analytical models to evaluate nSP designs executing a representative set of target applications. Furthermore, we propose a candidate nSP technology based on optical Resonance Energy Transfer (RET) logic that enables the small size required by the application domain; our smallest design is about the size of the largest known virus. We also show laboratory results that demonstrate initial steps towards a prototype.

DNA self-assembly is an emerging technology with potential as a future replacement of conventional lithographic fabrication. A key challenge is the specification of appropriate DNA sequences that are optimal according to specified metrics and satisfy various design rules. To meet this challenge we developed a thermodynamics-based design automation tool to evaluate the vast DNA sequence space (2.8k base pairs) and select appropriate sequences. We use this tool to design DNA nanostructures that were previously impossible with existing text distance based tools. We also show that for nanoscale structures our approach produces superior results compared to existing tools.