A Molecular Analog-to-Digital Converter Based on a Self-Correcting DNA Multilayer Threshold Gate System

Abstract An analog-to-digital converter (ADC) serves as a fundamental interface connecting the physical analog world to the digital computing domain. Despite remarkable advancements in molecular computing, the development of molecular analog-to-digital converters (MADCs) has remained unexplored. Inspired by the parallel comparison mechanism of the flash ADC architecture, a multilayer threshold gate system represents the most feasible pathway toward realizing MADCs. However, as intrinsically nonlinear processes, threshold reactions demand precise control over both thermodynamic and kinetic parameters, making rapid and efficient multithreshold determination a formidable challenge in molecular systems. Herein, we introduce a novel dynamic self-correction mechanism. Through the kinetic decoupling of threshold determination from threshold output, we construct a five-layer threshold gate system characterized by high fidelity and rapid operation. A series of kinetic models was established to demonstrate the intrinsic kinetic mechanism and to validate that this strategy theoretically supports an unlimited number of layers. Based on the MADC, we realized digital control of programmable self-assembly, developed a molecular coding platform capable of performing digital functional operations, and constructed a molecular digital pixel array that integrates in-pixel photosensing, self-correcting digitization, and basic layer editing. This work establishes a new paradigm for threshold and nonlinear reactions, laying the foundation for advanced molecular information processing technologies.