Protein-based volumetric memories

The promise of new architectures and more cost-effective miniaturization has prompted interest in hybrid molecular and semiconductor computers. Nature has already optimized through serendipitous natural selection some molecules for such applications. We examine here the use of the protein bacteriorhodopsin in three-dimensional optical memories. By using a sequential one-photon process, parallel read and write processes can be carried out without disturbing data outside of the irradiated volume. We examine the architecture and the methods currently under study to enhance the relevant photophysical properties of the protein.