Code for encryption hiding data into genomic DNA of living organisms

Abstract

Recent research has considered DNA an interesting medium for long-term and ultra compact information storage and a stegomedium for hidden messages. Artificial components of DNA with encoded information can be added to the genome of living organisms, such as common bacteria. With this approach, a medium for very height-densities information storage, watermarks for protection patents of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and secure public keys for decrypting hidden information in steganocryptography, can be obtained. In this paper, we have selected a Bacillus subtilis gene (tatAD ) and use the specific properties of silent mutations to obtain a biologically innocuous product. An adapted code for the message insertion in this gene is proposed.