Self-assembly as a mechanism of molecular computing

A physical mode of computing is proposed in which symbolic pattern recognition problems are converted to free energy minimization problems. Signals impinging on the external surface of a cell (an artificial device or possibly a biological cell) release distinct macromolecules that self-assemble into higher level shapes. Readout enzymes link the physiochemical properties (e.g. shape features) of these aggregates to effector enzymes that control the output of the cell.<>