Biological Big Data

Computer memory has come a long way since I played the Commodore 64 (kilobytes!). But it still has a long way to go. This is my favorite example when discussing both computer memory and human potential.

The human genome is roughly 3 billion pairs, or 6 billion per cell.

Encode it into 2 bits per base pair for 4 possible states (A, C, G, T).

Turns into approximately 1.5 GB... per cell in your body.

You have around 37 trillion cells in your body.

37 trillion x 1.5 GB... unless I messed up my math... is about 55 zettabytes.

All of the data centers in the world combined are estimated to hold between 100–125 zettabytes of memory. That means you and your best friend contain as much information in your DNA as all of the data centers in the world combined.

Computer memory has a long way to go. Each of us contains an unimaginable amount of information in comparison, and that's just the nature portion, not the nurture! So the next time someone brags about a device’s memory storage or when you’re feeling intimidated by the advances of AI, remember: you have far more memory in the tiniest bit of your little finger.

You are amazing. And so are the scientists working on the Biological Big Data opportunities.