1
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Ouyang Y, Zhang P, Willner I. DNA Tetrahedra as Functional Nanostructures: From Basic Principles to Applications. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202411118. [PMID: 39037936 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202411118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Self-assembled supramolecular DNA tetrahedra composed of programmed sequence-engineered complementary base-paired strands represent elusive nanostructures having key contributions to the development and diverse applications of DNA nanotechnology. By appropriate engineering of the strands, DNA tetrahedra of tuneable sizes and chemical functionalities were designed. Programmed functionalities for diverse applications were integrated into tetrahedra structures including sequence-specific recognition strands (aptamers), catalytic DNAzymes, nanoparticles, proteins, or fluorophore. The article presents a comprehensive review addressing methods to assemble and characterize the DNA tetrahedra nanostructures, and diverse applications of DNA tetrahedra framework are discussed. Topics being addressed include the application of structurally functionalized DNA tetrahedra nanostructure for the assembly of diverse optical or electrochemical sensing platforms and functionalized intracellular sensing and imaging modules. In addition, the triggered reconfiguration of DNA tetrahedra nanostructures and dynamic networks and circuits emulating biological transformations are introduced. Moreover, the functionalization of DNA tetrahedra frameworks with nanoparticles provides building units for the assembly of optical devices and for the programmed crystallization of nanoparticle superlattices. Finally, diverse applications of DNA tetrahedra in the field of nanomedicine are addressed. These include the DNA tetrahedra-assisted permeation of nanocarriers into cells for imaging, controlled drug release, active chemodynamic/photodynamic treatment of target tissues, and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Ouyang
- Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 91904, Israel
| | - Pu Zhang
- Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 91904, Israel
- Current address: Key Laboratory of Luminescence Analysis and Molecular Sensing (Southwest University), Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, P.R. China
| | - Itamar Willner
- Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 91904, Israel
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2
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Ouyang Y, Willner I. Phototriggered Equilibrated and Transient Orthogonally Operating Constitutional Dynamic Networks Guiding Biocatalytic Cascades. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:6806-6816. [PMID: 38422481 PMCID: PMC10941189 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c13562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
The photochemical deprotection of structurally engineered o-nitrobenzylphosphate-caged hairpin nucleic acids is introduced as a versatile method to evolve constitutional dynamic networks, CDNs. The photogenerated CDNs, in the presence of fuel strands, interact with auxiliary CDNs, resulting in their dynamically equilibrated reconfiguration. By modification of the constituents associated with the auxiliary CDNs with glucose oxidase (GOx)/horseradish peroxidase (HRP) or the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)/nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) cofactor, the photogenerated CDN drives the orthogonal operation upregulated/downregulated operation of the GOx/HRP and LDH/NAD+ biocatalytic cascade in the conjugate mixture of auxiliary CDNs. Also, the photogenerated CDN was applied to control the reconfiguration of coupled CDNs, leading to upregulated/downregulated formation of the antithrombin aptamer units, resulting in the dictated inhibition of thrombin activity (fibrinogen coagulation). Moreover, a reaction module consisting of GOx/HRP-modified o-nitrobenzyl phosphate-caged DNA hairpins, photoresponsive caged auxiliary duplexes, and nickase leads upon irradiation to the emergence of a transient, dissipative CDN activating in the presence of two alternate auxiliary triggers, achieving transient operation of up- and downregulated GOx/HRP biocatalytic cascades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Ouyang
- Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Itamar Willner
- Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
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3
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Li S, Zhao D, Yang F, Liu S. Dynamic monitoring of an enzymatically driven dissipative toehold-mediated strand displacement reaction. Chem Commun (Camb) 2024; 60:570-573. [PMID: 38093688 DOI: 10.1039/d3cc05061k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
A general strategy to program self-resettable and dissipative toehold-mediated strand displacement reactions was proposed, using DNA strands as the fuel and lambda exonuclease as the fuel-consuming unit. This non-equilibrium system is reversible and temporally controllable. Furthermore, it can be well integrated into a DNA network to temporally control its cascade reaction or dynamic behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Li
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yantai University, 30 Qingquan Road, Yantai 264005, China.
| | - Disong Zhao
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yantai University, 30 Qingquan Road, Yantai 264005, China.
| | - Fangfang Yang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yantai University, 30 Qingquan Road, Yantai 264005, China.
| | - Shufeng Liu
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yantai University, 30 Qingquan Road, Yantai 264005, China.
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4
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Ouyang Y, Dong J, Willner I. Dynamic DNA Networks-Guided Directional and Orthogonal Transient Biocatalytic Cascades. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:22135-22149. [PMID: 37773962 PMCID: PMC10571085 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c08020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
DNA frameworks, consisting of constitutional dynamic networks (CDNs) undergoing fuel-driven reconfiguration, are coupled to a dissipative reaction module that triggers the reconfigured CDNs into a transient intermediate CDNs recovering the parent CDN state. Biocatalytic cascades consisting of the glucose oxidase (GOx)/horseradish peroxidase (HRP) couple or the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)/nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) couple are tethered to the constituents of two different CDNs, allowing the CDNs-guided operation of the spatially confined GOx/HRP or LDH/NAD+ biocatalytic cascades. By applying two different fuel triggers, the directional transient CDN-guided upregulation/downregulation of the two biocatalytic cascades are demonstrated. By mixing the GOx/HRP-biocatalyst-modified CDN with the LDH/NAD+-biocatalyst-functionalized CDN, a composite CDN is assembled. Triggering the composite CDN with two different fuel strands results in orthogonal transient upregulation of the GOx/HRP cascade and transient downregulation of the LDH/NAD+ cascade or vice versa. The transient CDNs-guided biocatalytic cascades are computationally simulated by kinetic models, and the computational analyses allow the prediction of the performance of transient biocatalytic cascades under different auxiliary conditions. The concept of orthogonally triggered temporal, transient, biocatalytic cascades by means of CDN frameworks is applied to design an orthogonally operating CDN for the temporal upregulated or downregulated transient thrombin-induced coagulation of fibrinogen to fibrin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Ouyang
- The Institute of Chemistry,
Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Jiantong Dong
- The Institute of Chemistry,
Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Itamar Willner
- The Institute of Chemistry,
Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
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5
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Krok E, Stephan M, Dimova R, Piatkowski L. Tunable biomimetic bacterial membranes from binary and ternary lipid mixtures and their application in antimicrobial testing. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. BIOMEMBRANES 2023; 1865:184194. [PMID: 37328023 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2023.184194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The reconstruction of accurate yet simplified mimetic models of cell membranes is a very challenging goal of synthetic biology. To date, most of the research focuses on the development of eukaryotic cell membranes, while reconstitution of their prokaryotic counterparts has not been fully addressed, and the proposed models do not reflect well the complexity of bacterial cell envelopes. Here, we describe the reconstitution of biomimetic bacterial membranes with an increasing level of complexity, developed from binary and ternary lipid mixtures. Giant unilamellar vesicles composed of phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE); PC and phosphatidylglycerol (PG); PE and PG; PE, PG and cardiolipin (CA) at varying molar ratios were successfully prepared by the electroformation method. Each of the proposed mimetic models focuses on reproducing specific membrane features such as membrane charge, curvature, leaflets asymmetry, or the presence of phase separation. GUVs were characterized in terms of size distribution, surface charge, and lateral organization. Finally, the developed models were tested against the lipopeptide antibiotic daptomycin. The obtained results showed a clear dependency of daptomycin binding efficiency on the amount of negatively charged lipid species present in the membrane. We anticipate that the models proposed here can be applied not only in antimicrobial testing but also serve as platforms for studying fundamental biological processes in bacteria as well as their interaction with physiologically relevant biomolecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Krok
- Poznan University of Technology, Faculty of Materials Engineering and Technical Physics, Institute of Physics, Piotrowo 3, 60-965 Poznan, Poland; Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Science Park Golm, 14476 Potsdam, Germany.
| | - Mareike Stephan
- Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Science Park Golm, 14476 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Rumiana Dimova
- Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Science Park Golm, 14476 Potsdam, Germany.
| | - Lukasz Piatkowski
- Poznan University of Technology, Faculty of Materials Engineering and Technical Physics, Institute of Physics, Piotrowo 3, 60-965 Poznan, Poland
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6
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Kishore V, Gaiwala Sharma SS, Raghunand TR. Septum site placement in Mycobacteria - identification and characterisation of mycobacterial homologues of Escherichia coli MinD. MICROBIOLOGY (READING, ENGLAND) 2023; 169:001359. [PMID: 37526955 PMCID: PMC10482377 DOI: 10.1099/mic.0.001359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
A major virulence trait of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb) is its ability to enter a dormant state within its human host. Since cell division is intimately linked to metabolic shut down, understanding the mechanism of septum formation and its integration with other events in the division pathway is likely to offer clues to the molecular basis of dormancy. The M. tb genome lacks obvious homologues of several conserved cell division proteins, and this study was aimed at identifying and functionally characterising mycobacterial homologues of the E. coli septum site specification protein MinD (Ec MinD). Sequence homology based analyses suggested that the genomes of both M. tb and the saprophyte Mycobacterium smegmatis (M. smegmatis) encode two putative Ec MinD homologues - Rv1708/MSMEG_3743 and Rv3660c/ MSMEG_6171. Of these, Rv1708/MSMEG_3743 were found to be the true homologues, through complementation of the E. coli ∆minDE mutant HL1, overexpression studies, and structural comparisons. Rv1708 and MSMEG_3743 fully complemented the mini-cell phenotype of HL1, and over-expression of MSMEG_3743 in M. smegmatis led to cell elongation and a drastic decrease in c.f.u. counts, indicating its essentiality in cell-division. MSMEG_3743 displayed ATPase activity, consistent with its containing a conserved Walker A motif. Interaction of Rv1708 with the chromosome associated proteins ScpA and ParB, implied a link between its septum formation role, and chromosome segregation. Comparative structural analyses showed Rv1708 to be closer in similarity to Ec MinD than Rv3660c. In summary we identify Rv1708 and MSMEG_3743 to be homologues of Ec MinD, adding a critical missing piece to the mycobacterial cell division puzzle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vimal Kishore
- CSIR - Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road Hyderabad - 500007, India
- Present address: National Centre for Cell Science (NCCS), NCCS Complex, University of Pune Campus, Pune University Rd, Ganeshkhind, Pune, 411007, India
| | - Sujata S. Gaiwala Sharma
- CSIR - Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road Hyderabad - 500007, India
- Present address: Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pune 411008, India
| | - Tirumalai R. Raghunand
- CSIR - Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road Hyderabad - 500007, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, India
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7
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Noba K, Yoshimoto S, Tanaka Y, Yokoyama T, Matsuura T, Hori K. Simple Method for the Creation of a Bacteria-Sized Unilamellar Liposome with Different Proteins Localized to the Respective Sides of the Membrane. ACS Synth Biol 2023; 12:1437-1446. [PMID: 37155350 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.2c00564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Artificial cells are membrane vesicles mimicking cellular functions. To date, giant unilamellar vesicles made from a single lipid membrane with a diameter of 10 μm or more have been used to create artificial cells. However, the creation of artificial cells that mimic the membrane structure and size of bacteria has been limited due to technical restrictions of conventional liposome preparation methods. Here, we created bacteria-sized large unilamellar vesicles (LUVs) with proteins localized asymmetrically to the lipid bilayer. Liposomes containing benzylguanine-modified phospholipids were prepared by combining the conventional water-in-oil emulsion method and the extruder method, and green fluorescent protein fused with SNAP-tag was localized to the inner leaflet of the lipid bilayer. Biotinylated lipid molecules were then inserted externally, and the outer leaflet was modified with streptavidin. The resulting liposomes had a size distribution in the range of 500-2000 nm with a peak at 841 nm (the coefficient of variation was 10.3%), which was similar to that of spherical bacterial cells. Fluorescence microscopy, quantitative evaluation using flow cytometry, and western blotting proved the intended localization of different proteins on the lipid membrane. Cryogenic electron microscopy and quantitative evaluation by α-hemolysin insertion revealed that most of the created liposomes were unilamellar. Our simple method for the preparation of bacteria-sized LUVs with asymmetrically localized proteins will contribute to the creation of artificial bacterial cells for investigating functions and the significance of their surface structure and size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kosaku Noba
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8603, Japan
| | - Shogo Yoshimoto
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8603, Japan
| | - Yoshikazu Tanaka
- Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, 2-1-1 Katahira, Aoba-Ku, Sendai 980-8577, Japan
| | - Takeshi Yokoyama
- Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, 2-1-1 Katahira, Aoba-Ku, Sendai 980-8577, Japan
| | - Tomoaki Matsuura
- Earth-Life Science Institute, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Ookayama 2-12-1-i7E-307, Meguro-Ku, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan
| | - Katsutoshi Hori
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8603, Japan
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8
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Yue K, Chen J, Li Y, Kai L. Advancing synthetic biology through cell-free protein synthesis. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2023; 21:2899-2908. [PMID: 37216017 PMCID: PMC10196276 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2023.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The rapid development of synthetic biology has enabled the production of compounds with revolutionary improvements in biotechnology. DNA manipulation tools have expedited the engineering of cellular systems for this purpose. Nonetheless, the inherent constraints of cellular systems persist, imposing an upper limit on mass and energy conversion efficiencies. Cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS) has demonstrated its potential to overcome these inherent constraints and has been instrumental in the further advancement of synthetic biology. Via the removal of the cell membranes and redundant parts of cells, CFPS has provided flexibility in directly dissecting and manipulating the Central Dogma with rapid feedback. This mini-review summarizes recent achievements of the CFPS technique and its application to a wide range of synthetic biology projects, such as minimal cell assembly, metabolic engineering, and recombinant protein production for therapeutics, as well as biosensor development for in vitro diagnostics. In addition, current challenges and future perspectives in developing a generalized cell-free synthetic biology are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Yue
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 22116, China
| | - Junyu Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 22116, China
| | - Yingqiu Li
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 22116, China
| | - Lei Kai
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 22116, China
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Rivas G. Biophysical Reviews' "Meet the Editors Series"-a profile of Germán Rivas. Biophys Rev 2023; 15:151-156. [PMID: 37124917 PMCID: PMC10133429 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-023-01061-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
German Rivas is an executive editor of the IUPAB Biophysical Reviews journal based in Spain. As the head of the Department of Structural and Chemical Biology at the Center for Biological Research (CIB) Margarita Salas (one of the largest research institutes devoted to life sciences of the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC)), he leads a research program aimed at understanding the structure function relationship of large macromolecular complexes (involved in bacterial cell division) when placed in physiologically complex and "crowded" media toward their reconstitution from the bottom up in cell-like compartments. In this "Meet the Editors'" piece, he briefly describes his research interests and history.
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Affiliation(s)
- Germán Rivas
- Systems Biochemistry Lab, Department of Structural and Chemical Biology, CIB Margarita Salas – CSIC, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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10
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Li Z, Wang J, Willner B, Willner I. Topologically Triggered Dynamic DNA Frameworks. Isr J Chem 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/ijch.202300013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenzhen Li
- The Institute of Chemistry The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem 91904 Israel
| | - Jianbang Wang
- The Institute of Chemistry The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem 91904 Israel
| | - Bilha Willner
- The Institute of Chemistry The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem 91904 Israel
| | - Itamar Willner
- The Institute of Chemistry The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem 91904 Israel
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11
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Kumar S, Karmacharya M, Cho YK. Bridging the Gap between Nonliving Matter and Cellular Life. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2202962. [PMID: 35988151 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202202962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
A cell, the fundamental unit of life, contains the requisite blueprint information necessary to survive and to build tissues, organs, and systems, eventually forming a fully functional living creature. A slight structural alteration can result in data misprinting, throwing the entire life process off balance. Advances in synthetic biology and cell engineering enable the predictable redesign of biological systems to perform novel functions. Individual functions and fundamental processes at the core of the biology of cells can be investigated by employing a synthetically constrained micro or nanoreactor. However, constructing a life-like structure from nonliving building blocks remains a considerable challenge. Chemical compartments, cascade signaling, energy generation, growth, replication, and adaptation within micro or nanoreactors must be comparable with their biological counterparts. Although these reactors currently lack the power and behavioral sophistication of their biological equivalents, their interface with biological systems enables the development of hybrid solutions for real-world applications, such as therapeutic agents, biosensors, innovative materials, and biochemical microreactors. This review discusses the latest advances in cell membrane-engineered micro or nanoreactors, as well as the limitations associated with high-throughput preparation methods and biological applications for the real-time modulation of complex pathological states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit Kumar
- Center for Soft and Living Matter, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), UNIST-gil 50, Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), UNIST-gil 50, Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Mamata Karmacharya
- Center for Soft and Living Matter, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), UNIST-gil 50, Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), UNIST-gil 50, Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon-Kyoung Cho
- Center for Soft and Living Matter, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), UNIST-gil 50, Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), UNIST-gil 50, Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
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12
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Jiang W, Wu Z, Gao Z, Wan M, Zhou M, Mao C, Shen J. Artificial Cells: Past, Present and Future. ACS NANO 2022; 16:15705-15733. [PMID: 36226996 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c06104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Artificial cells are constructed to imitate natural cells and allow researchers to explore biological process and the origin of life. The construction methods for artificial cells, through both top-down or bottom-up approaches, have achieved great progress over the past decades. Here we present a comprehensive overview on the development of artificial cells and their properties and applications. Artificial cells are derived from lipids, polymers, lipid/polymer hybrids, natural cell membranes, colloidosome, metal-organic frameworks and coacervates. They can be endowed with various functions through the incorporation of proteins and genes on the cell surface or encapsulated inside of the cells. These modulations determine the properties of artificial cells, including producing energy, cell growth, morphology change, division, transmembrane transport, environmental response, motility and chemotaxis. Multiple applications of these artificial cells are discussed here with a focus on therapeutic applications. Artificial cells are used as carriers for materials and information exchange and have been shown to function as targeted delivery systems of personalized drugs. Additionally, artificial cells can function to substitute for cells with impaired function. Enzyme therapy and immunotherapy using artificial cells have been an intense focus of research. Finally, prospects of future development of cell-mimic properties and broader applications are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wentao Jiang
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Ziyu Wu
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Zheng Gao
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Mimi Wan
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Min Zhou
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Chun Mao
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jian Shen
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
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13
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Hirschi S, Ward TR, Meier WP, Müller DJ, Fotiadis D. Synthetic Biology: Bottom-Up Assembly of Molecular Systems. Chem Rev 2022; 122:16294-16328. [PMID: 36179355 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The bottom-up assembly of biological and chemical components opens exciting opportunities to engineer artificial vesicular systems for applications with previously unmet requirements. The modular combination of scaffolds and functional building blocks enables the engineering of complex systems with biomimetic or new-to-nature functionalities. Inspired by the compartmentalized organization of cells and organelles, lipid or polymer vesicles are widely used as model membrane systems to investigate the translocation of solutes and the transduction of signals by membrane proteins. The bottom-up assembly and functionalization of such artificial compartments enables full control over their composition and can thus provide specifically optimized environments for synthetic biological processes. This review aims to inspire future endeavors by providing a diverse toolbox of molecular modules, engineering methodologies, and different approaches to assemble artificial vesicular systems. Important technical and practical aspects are addressed and selected applications are presented, highlighting particular achievements and limitations of the bottom-up approach. Complementing the cutting-edge technological achievements, fundamental aspects are also discussed to cater to the inherently diverse background of the target audience, which results from the interdisciplinary nature of synthetic biology. The engineering of proteins as functional modules and the use of lipids and block copolymers as scaffold modules for the assembly of functionalized vesicular systems are explored in detail. Particular emphasis is placed on ensuring the controlled assembly of these components into increasingly complex vesicular systems. Finally, all descriptions are presented in the greater context of engineering valuable synthetic biological systems for applications in biocatalysis, biosensing, bioremediation, or targeted drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Hirschi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, Bühlstrasse 28, 3012 Bern, Switzerland.,Molecular Systems Engineering, National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR), 4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Thomas R Ward
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, St. Johanns-Ring 19, 4056 Basel, Switzerland.,Molecular Systems Engineering, National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR), 4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Wolfgang P Meier
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, St. Johanns-Ring 19, 4056 Basel, Switzerland.,Molecular Systems Engineering, National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR), 4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Daniel J Müller
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058 Basel, Switzerland.,Molecular Systems Engineering, National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR), 4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dimitrios Fotiadis
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, Bühlstrasse 28, 3012 Bern, Switzerland.,Molecular Systems Engineering, National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR), 4002 Basel, Switzerland
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14
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Song J, Zhang J, Krishna Mani S, Sen A. Droplet Navigation by Photothermal Pumping in an Optofluidic System. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2022; 38:11486-11491. [PMID: 36067338 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c02108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Droplets with guided motion have potential applications as microreactors and delivery vehicles. Directing long-range migration powered solely by light is particularly advantageous since light can be applied remotely, patterned with a photomask, and readily translated to irradiate specified locations. Herein, we describe a universal platform that allows fast directional navigation and collective merging of droplets controlled by either ultraviolet or visible light. The guided motion of water and oil droplets follows density-driven convective flows arising from photothermal conversion at a light-absorbing amphiphobic substrate. Because of the relatively high photothermal efficiency, a low-intensity light beam can be employed. Further, we demonstrate that the moving droplets can function as carriers and on-demand reaction chambers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Song
- Department of Chemistry, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, United States
| | - Jianhua Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, United States
| | - Sanjana Krishna Mani
- Department of Chemistry, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, United States
| | - Ayusman Sen
- Department of Chemistry, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, United States
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15
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Dong J, Ouyang Y, Wang J, O’Hagan MP, Willner I. Assembly of Dynamic Gated and Cascaded Transient DNAzyme Networks. ACS NANO 2022; 16:6153-6164. [PMID: 35294174 PMCID: PMC9047661 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.1c11631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The dynamic transient formation and depletion of G-quadruplexes regulate gene replication and transcription. This process was found to be related to various diseases such as cancer and premature aging. We report on the engineering of nucleic acid modules revealing dynamic, transient assembly and disassembly of G-quadruplex structures and G-quadruplex-based DNAzymes, gated transient processes, and cascaded dynamic transient reactions that involve G-quadruplex and DNAzyme structures. The dynamic transient processes are driven by functional DNA reaction modules activated by a fuel strand and guided toward dissipative operation by a nicking enzyme (Nt.BbvCI). The dynamic networks were further characterized by computational simulation of the experiments using kinetic models, allowing us to predict the dynamic performance of the networks under different auxiliary conditions applied to the systems. The systems reported herein could provide functional DNA machineries for the spatiotemporal control of G-quadruplex structures perturbing gene expression and thus provide a therapeutic means for related emergent diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiantong Dong
- Institute of Chemistry, Center for
Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew
University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Yu Ouyang
- Institute of Chemistry, Center for
Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew
University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Jianbang Wang
- Institute of Chemistry, Center for
Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew
University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Michael P. O’Hagan
- Institute of Chemistry, Center for
Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew
University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Itamar Willner
- Institute of Chemistry, Center for
Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew
University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
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16
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Wang C, O'Hagan MP, Li Z, Zhang J, Ma X, Tian H, Willner I. Photoresponsive DNA materials and their applications. Chem Soc Rev 2022; 51:720-760. [PMID: 34985085 DOI: 10.1039/d1cs00688f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Photoresponsive nucleic acids attract growing interest as functional constituents in materials science. Integration of photoisomerizable units into DNA strands provides an ideal handle for the reversible reconfiguration of nucleic acid architectures by light irradiation, triggering changes in the chemical and structural properties of the nanostructures that can be exploited in the development of photoresponsive functional devices such as machines, origami structures and ion channels, as well as environmentally adaptable 'smart' materials including nanoparticle aggregates and hydrogels. Moreover, photoresponsive DNA components allow control over the composition of dynamic supramolecular ensembles that mimic native networks. Beyond this, the modification of nucleic acids with photosensitizer functionality enables these biopolymers to act as scaffolds for spatial organization of electron transfer reactions mimicking natural photosynthesis. This review provides a comprehensive overview of these exciting developments in the design of photoresponsive DNA materials, and showcases a range of applications in catalysis, sensing and drug delivery/release. The key challenges facing the development of the field in the coming years are addressed, and exciting emergent research directions are identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Wang
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel.
| | - Michael P O'Hagan
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel.
| | - Ziyuan Li
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Frontiers Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, P. R. China
| | - Junji Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Frontiers Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, P. R. China
| | - Xiang Ma
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Frontiers Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, P. R. China
| | - He Tian
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Frontiers Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, P. R. China
| | - Itamar Willner
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel.
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17
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Wang C, O'Hagan MP, Willner B, Willner I. Bioinspired Artificial Photosynthetic Systems. Chemistry 2021; 28:e202103595. [PMID: 34854505 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202103595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Mimicking photosynthesis using artificial systems, as a means for solar energy conversion and green fuel generation, is one of the holy grails of modern science. This perspective presents recent advances towards developing artificial photosynthetic systems. In one approach, native photosystems are interfaced with electrodes to yield photobioelectrochemical cells that transform light energy into electrical power. This is exemplified by interfacing photosystem I (PSI) and photosystem II (PSII) as an electrically contacted assembly mimicking the native Z-scheme, and by the assembly of an electrically wired PSI/glucose oxidase biocatalytic conjugate on an electrode support. Illumination of the functionalized electrodes led to light-induced generation of electrical power, or to the generation of photocurrents using glucose as the fuel. The second approach introduces supramolecular photosensitizer nucleic acid/electron acceptor complexes as functional modules for effective photoinduced electron transfer stimulating the subsequent biocatalyzed generation of NADPH or the Pt-nanoparticle-catalyzed evolution of molecular hydrogen. Application of the DNA machineries for scaling-up the photosystems is demonstrated. A third approach presents the integration of artificial photosynthetic modules into dynamic nucleic acid networks undergoing reversible reconfiguration or dissipative transient operation in the presence of auxiliary triggers. Control over photoinduced electron transfer reactions and photosynthetic transformations by means of the dynamic networks is demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Wang
- Institute of Chemistry, The Minerva Centre for Bio-Hybrid Complex Systems, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Michael P O'Hagan
- Institute of Chemistry, The Minerva Centre for Bio-Hybrid Complex Systems, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Bilha Willner
- Institute of Chemistry, The Minerva Centre for Bio-Hybrid Complex Systems, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Itamar Willner
- Institute of Chemistry, The Minerva Centre for Bio-Hybrid Complex Systems, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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18
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Ouyang Y, Zhang P, Manis-Levy H, Paltiel Y, Willner I. Transient Dissipative Optical Properties of Aggregated Au Nanoparticles, CdSe/ZnS Quantum Dots, and Supramolecular Nucleic Acid-Stabilized Ag Nanoclusters. J Am Chem Soc 2021; 143:17622-17632. [PMID: 34643387 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c07895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Transient, dissipative, aggregation and deaggregation of Au nanoparticles (NPs) or semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) leading to control over their transient optical properties are introduced. The systems consist of nucleic acid-modified pairs of Au NPs or pairs of CdSe/ZnS QDs, an auxiliary duplex L1/T1, and the nicking enzyme Nt.BbvCI as functional modules yielding transient aggregation/deaggregation of the NPs and dynamically controlling over their optical properties. In the presence of a fuel strand L1', the duplex L1/T1 is separated, leading to the release of T1 and the formation of duplex L1/L1'. The released T1 leads to aggregation of the Au NPs or to the T1-induced G-quadruplex bridged aggregated CdSe/ZnS QDs. Biocatalytic nicking of the L1/L1' duplex fragments L1' and the released L1 displaces T1 bridging the aggregated NPs or QDs, resulting in the dynamic recovery of the original NPs or QDs modules. The dynamic aggregation/deaggregation of the Au NPs is followed by the transient interparticle plasmon coupling spectral changes. The dynamic aggregation/deaggregation of the CdSe/ZnS QDs is probed by following the transient chemiluminescence generated by the hemin/G-quadruplexes bridging the QDs and by the accompanying transient chemiluminescence resonance energy transfer proceeding in the dynamically formed QDs aggregates. A third system demonstrating transient, dissipative, luminescence properties of a reaction module consisting of nucleic acid-stabilized Ag nanoclusters (NCs) is introduced. Transient dynamic formation and depletion of the supramolecular luminescent Ag NCs system via strand displacement accompanied by a nicking process are demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Ouyang
- The Institute of Chemistry, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Pu Zhang
- The Institute of Chemistry, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Hadar Manis-Levy
- Department of Applied Physics, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Yossi Paltiel
- Department of Applied Physics, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Itamar Willner
- The Institute of Chemistry, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
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19
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Wang J, Li Z, Zhou Z, Ouyang Y, Zhang J, Ma X, Tian H, Willner I. DNAzyme- and light-induced dissipative and gated DNA networks. Chem Sci 2021; 12:11204-11212. [PMID: 34522318 PMCID: PMC8386649 DOI: 10.1039/d1sc02091a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleic acid-based dissipative, out-of-equilibrium systems are introduced as functional assemblies emulating transient dissipative biological transformations. One system involves a Pb2+-ion-dependent DNAzyme fuel strand-driven network leading to the transient cleavage of the fuel strand to “waste” products. Applying the Pb2+-ion-dependent DNAzyme to two competitive fuel strand-driven systems yields two parallel operating networks. Blocking the competitively operating networks with selective inhibitors leads, however, to gated transient operation of dictated networks, yielding gated catalytic operations. A second system introduces a “non-waste” generating out-of-equilibrium, dissipative network driven by light. The system consists of a trans-azobenzene-functionalized photoactive module that is reconfigured by light to an intermediary state consisting of cis-azobenzene units that are thermally recovered to the original trans-azobenzene-modified module. The cyclic transient photoinduced operation of the device is demonstrated. The kinetic simulation of the systems allows the prediction of the transient behavior of the networks under different auxiliary conditions. Functional DNA modules are triggered in the presence of appropriate inhibitors to yield transient gated catalytic functions, and a photoresponsive DNA module leads to “waste-free” operation of transient, dissipative dynamic transitions.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianbang Wang
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem 91904 Israel
| | - Zhenzhen Li
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem 91904 Israel
| | - Zhixin Zhou
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem 91904 Israel
| | - Yu Ouyang
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem 91904 Israel
| | - Junji Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Frontiers Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology Shanghai 200237 P. R. China
| | - Xiang Ma
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Frontiers Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology Shanghai 200237 P. R. China
| | - He Tian
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Frontiers Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology Shanghai 200237 P. R. China
| | - Itamar Willner
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem 91904 Israel
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20
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Zhou Z, Ouyang Y, Wang J, Willner I. Dissipative Gated and Cascaded DNA Networks. J Am Chem Soc 2021; 143:5071-5079. [DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c00486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhixin Zhou
- The Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Yu Ouyang
- The Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Jianbang Wang
- The Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Itamar Willner
- The Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
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21
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Lilienthal S, Luo GF, Wang S, Yue L, Fischer A, Ehrlich A, Nahmias Y, Willner I. Constitutional Dynamic Networks-Guided Synthesis of Programmed "Genes", Transcription of mRNAs, and Translation of Proteins. J Am Chem Soc 2020; 142:21460-21468. [PMID: 33290051 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.0c10565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Inspired by nature, where dynamic networks control the levels of gene expression and the activities of transcribed/translated proteins, we introduce nucleic acid-based constitutional dynamic networks (CDNs) as functional modules mimicking native circuits by demonstrating CDNs-guided programmed synthesis of genes, controlled transcription of RNAs, and dictated transcription/translation synthesis of proteins. An auxiliary CDN consisting of four dynamically equilibrated constituents AA', AB', BA', and BB' is orthogonally triggered by two different inputs yielding two different compositionally reconfigured CDNs. Subjecting the parent auxiliary CDN to two hairpins, HA and HB, and two templates TA and TB and a nicking/replication machinery leads to the cleavage of the hairpins and to the activation of the nicking/replication machineries that synthesize two "genes", e.g., the histidine-dependent DNAzyme g1 and the Zn2+-ion-dependent DNAzyme g2. The triggered orthogonal reconfiguration of the parent CDN to the respective CDNs leads to the programmed preferred CDN-guided synthesis of g1 or g2. Similarly, the triggered reconfigured CDNs are subjected to two hairpins HC and HD, the templates I'/I and J'/J, and the RNA polymerase (RNAp)/NTPs machinery. While the cleavage of the hairpins by the constituents associated with the parent CDN leads to the transcription of the broccoli aptamer recognizing the DFHBI ligand and of the aptamer recognizing the malachite green (MG) ligand, the orthogonally triggered CDNs lead to the CDNs-guided enhanced transcription of either the DFHBI aptamer or the MG aptamer. In addition, subjecting the triggered reconfigured CDNs to predesigned hairpins HE and HF, the templates M'/M and N'/N, the RNAp/NTPs machinery, and the cell-free ribosome t-RNA machinery leads to the CDNs-guided transcription/translation of the green fluorescence protein (GFP) or red fluorescence protein (RFP).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sivan Lilienthal
- Institute of Chemistry, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Guo-Feng Luo
- Institute of Chemistry, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Shan Wang
- Institute of Chemistry, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Liang Yue
- Institute of Chemistry, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Amit Fischer
- Institute of Chemistry, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Avner Ehrlich
- Grass Center for Bioengineering, Benin School of Computer Science and Engineering, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Yaakov Nahmias
- Grass Center for Bioengineering, Benin School of Computer Science and Engineering, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Itamar Willner
- Institute of Chemistry, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
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22
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Ganzinger KA, Merino‐Salomón A, García‐Soriano DA, Butterfield AN, Litschel T, Siedler F, Schwille P. FtsZ Reorganization Facilitates Deformation of Giant Vesicles in Microfluidic Traps**. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202001928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kristina A. Ganzinger
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biophysics Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry Am Klopferspitz 18 82152 Martinsried Germany
- Living Matter AMOLF P.O. Box 41883-1009 DB Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Adrián Merino‐Salomón
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biophysics Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry Am Klopferspitz 18 82152 Martinsried Germany
| | - Daniela A. García‐Soriano
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biophysics Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry Am Klopferspitz 18 82152 Martinsried Germany
| | - A. Nelson Butterfield
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biophysics Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry Am Klopferspitz 18 82152 Martinsried Germany
| | - Thomas Litschel
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biophysics Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry Am Klopferspitz 18 82152 Martinsried Germany
| | - Frank Siedler
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biophysics Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry Am Klopferspitz 18 82152 Martinsried Germany
| | - Petra Schwille
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biophysics Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry Am Klopferspitz 18 82152 Martinsried Germany
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23
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Ganzinger KA, Merino‐Salomón A, García‐Soriano DA, Butterfield AN, Litschel T, Siedler F, Schwille P. FtsZ Reorganization Facilitates Deformation of Giant Vesicles in Microfluidic Traps*. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020; 59:21372-21376. [PMID: 32735732 PMCID: PMC7756778 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202001928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The geometry of reaction compartments can affect the local outcome of interface-restricted reactions. Giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) are commonly used to generate cell-sized, membrane-bound reaction compartments, which are, however, always spherical. Herein, we report the development of a microfluidic chip to trap and reversibly deform GUVs into cigar-like shapes. When trapping and elongating GUVs that contain the primary protein of the bacterial Z ring, FtsZ, we find that membrane-bound FtsZ filaments align preferentially with the short GUV axis. When GUVs are released from this confinement and membrane tension is relaxed, FtsZ reorganizes reversibly from filaments into dynamic rings that stabilize membrane protrusions; a process that allows reversible GUV deformation. We conclude that microfluidic traps are useful for manipulating both geometry and tension of GUVs, and for investigating how both affect the outcome of spatially-sensitive reactions inside them, such as that of protein self-organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina A. Ganzinger
- Department of Cellular and Molecular BiophysicsMax Planck Institute of BiochemistryAm Klopferspitz 1882152MartinsriedGermany
- Living MatterAMOLFP.O. Box 41883-1009 DBAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Adrián Merino‐Salomón
- Department of Cellular and Molecular BiophysicsMax Planck Institute of BiochemistryAm Klopferspitz 1882152MartinsriedGermany
| | - Daniela A. García‐Soriano
- Department of Cellular and Molecular BiophysicsMax Planck Institute of BiochemistryAm Klopferspitz 1882152MartinsriedGermany
| | - A. Nelson Butterfield
- Department of Cellular and Molecular BiophysicsMax Planck Institute of BiochemistryAm Klopferspitz 1882152MartinsriedGermany
| | - Thomas Litschel
- Department of Cellular and Molecular BiophysicsMax Planck Institute of BiochemistryAm Klopferspitz 1882152MartinsriedGermany
| | - Frank Siedler
- Department of Cellular and Molecular BiophysicsMax Planck Institute of BiochemistryAm Klopferspitz 1882152MartinsriedGermany
| | - Petra Schwille
- Department of Cellular and Molecular BiophysicsMax Planck Institute of BiochemistryAm Klopferspitz 1882152MartinsriedGermany
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24
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Liu Z, Zhou W, Qi C, Kong T. Interface Engineering in Multiphase Systems toward Synthetic Cells and Organelles: From Soft Matter Fundamentals to Biomedical Applications. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2020; 32:e2002932. [PMID: 32954548 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202002932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cells have a major role in gaining insight into the complex biological processes of living cells; they also give rise to a range of emerging applications from gene delivery to enzymatic nanoreactors. Living cells rely on compartmentalization to orchestrate reaction networks for specialized and coordinated functions. Principally, the compartmentalization has been an essential engineering theme in constructing cell-mimicking systems. Here, efforts to engineer liquid-liquid interfaces of multiphase systems into membrane-bounded and membraneless compartments, which include lipid vesicles, polymer vesicles, colloidosomes, hybrids, and coacervate droplets, are summarized. Examples are provided of how these compartments are designed to imitate biological behaviors or machinery, including molecule trafficking, growth, fusion, energy conversion, intercellular communication, and adaptivity. Subsequently, the state-of-art applications of these cell-inspired synthetic compartments are discussed. Apart from being simplified and cell models for bridging the gap between nonliving matter and cellular life, synthetic compartments also are utilized as intracellular delivery vehicles for nuclei acids and nanoreactors for biochemical synthesis. Finally, key challenges and future directions for achieving the full potential of synthetic cells are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhou Liu
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China
| | - Wen Zhou
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China
| | - Cheng Qi
- College of Mechatronics and Control Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Tiantian Kong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China
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25
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Wang S, Yue L, Wulf V, Lilienthal S, Willner I. Dissipative Constitutional Dynamic Networks for Tunable Transient Responses and Catalytic Functions. J Am Chem Soc 2020; 142:17480-17488. [DOI: 10.1021/jacs.0c06977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shan Wang
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Liang Yue
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Verena Wulf
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Sivan Lilienthal
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Itamar Willner
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
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26
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Monterroso B, Robles-Ramos MÁ, Zorrilla S, Rivas G. Reconstituting bacterial cell division assemblies in crowded, phase-separated media. Methods Enzymol 2020; 646:19-49. [PMID: 33453926 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2020.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Here we have summarized several strategies to reconstruct complexes containing the FtsZ protein, a central element of the cell division machinery in most bacteria, and to test their functional organization in minimal membrane systems and cell-like containers, as vesicles and droplets produced by microfluidics. These synthetic systems have been devised to mimic elements of the intracellular complexity, as excluded volume effects due to natural crowding, and macromolecular condensation resulting from biologically regulated liquid-liquid phase separation, in media of known and controllable composition. This integrative approach has allowed to demonstrate that macromolecular phase separation and crowding may also help to dynamically organize FtsZ in the intracellular space thus modulating its functional reactivity in cell division.
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Affiliation(s)
- Begoña Monterroso
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Miguel Ángel Robles-Ramos
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Silvia Zorrilla
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Germán Rivas
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain.
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27
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Mohanan G, Nair KS, Nampoothiri KM, Bajaj H. Engineering bio-mimicking functional vesicles with multiple compartments for quantifying molecular transport. Chem Sci 2020; 11:4669-4679. [PMID: 34122921 PMCID: PMC8159255 DOI: 10.1039/d0sc00084a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Controlled design of giant unilamellar vesicles under defined conditions has vast applications in the field of membrane and synthetic biology. Here, we bio-engineer bacterial-membrane mimicking models of controlled size under defined salt conditions over a range of pH. A complex bacterial lipid extract is used for construction of physiologically relevant Gram-negative membrane mimicking vesicles whereas a ternary mixture of charged lipids (DOPG, cardiolipin and lysyl-PG) is used for building Gram-positive bacterial-membrane vesicles. Furthermore, we construct stable multi-compartment biomimicking vesicles using the gel-assisted swelling method. Importantly, we validate the bio-application of the bacterial vesicle models by quantifying diffusion of chemically synthetic amphoteric antibiotics. The transport rate is pH-responsive and depends on the lipid composition, based on which a permeation model is proposed. The permeability properties of antimicrobial peptides reveal pH dependent pore-forming activity in the model vesicles. Finally, we demonstrate the functionality of the vesicles by quantifying the uptake of membrane-impermeable molecules facilitated by embedded pore-forming proteins. We suggest that the bacterial vesicle models developed here can be used to understand fundamental biological processes like the peptide assembly mechanism or bacterial cell division and will have a multitude of applications in the bottom-up assembly of a protocell. Giant vesicle functional models mimicking a bacterial membrane under physiological conditions are constructed.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayathri Mohanan
- Microbial Processes and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (NIIST) Trivandrum 695019 Kerala India
| | - Karthika S Nair
- Microbial Processes and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (NIIST) Trivandrum 695019 Kerala India
| | - K Madhavan Nampoothiri
- Microbial Processes and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (NIIST) Trivandrum 695019 Kerala India
| | - Harsha Bajaj
- Microbial Processes and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (NIIST) Trivandrum 695019 Kerala India
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28
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A protocell with fusion and division. Biochem Soc Trans 2019; 47:1909-1919. [PMID: 31819942 DOI: 10.1042/bst20190576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A protocell is a synthetic form of cellular life that is constructed from phospholipid vesicles and used to understand the emergence of life from a nonliving chemical network. To be considered 'living', a protocell should be capable of self-proliferation, which includes successive growth and division processes. The growth of protocells can be achieved via vesicle fusion approaches. In this review, we provide a brief overview of recent research on the formation of a protocell, fusion and division processes of the protocell, and encapsulation of a defined chemical network such as the genetic material. We also provide some perspectives on the challenges and future developments of synthetic protocell research.
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Kretschmer S, Ganzinger KA, Franquelim HG, Schwille P. Synthetic cell division via membrane-transforming molecular assemblies. BMC Biol 2019; 17:43. [PMID: 31126285 PMCID: PMC6533746 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-019-0665-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Reproduction, i.e. the ability to produce new individuals from a parent organism, is a hallmark of living matter. Even the simplest forms of reproduction require cell division: attempts to create a designer cell therefore should include a synthetic cell division machinery. In this review, we will illustrate how nature solves this task, describing membrane remodelling processes in general and focusing on bacterial cell division in particular. We discuss recent progress made in their in vitro reconstitution, identify open challenges, and suggest how purely synthetic building blocks could provide an additional and attractive route to creating artificial cell division machineries.
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Robinson T. Microfluidic Handling and Analysis of Giant Vesicles for Use as Artificial Cells: A Review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 3:e1800318. [PMID: 32648705 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.201800318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Revised: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
One of the goals of synthetic biology is the bottom-up construction of an artificial cell, the successful realization of which could shed light on how cellular life emerged and could also be a useful tool for studying the function of modern cells. Using liposomes as biomimetic containers is particularly promising because lipid membranes are biocompatible and much of the required machinery can be reconstituted within them. Giant lipid vesicles have been used extensively in other fields such as biophysics and drug discovery, but their use as artificial cells has only recently seen an increase. Despite the prevalence of giant vesicles, many experiments remain challenging or impossible due to their delicate nature compared to biological cells. This review aims to highlight the effectiveness of microfluidic technologies in handling and analyzing giant vesicles. The advantages and disadvantages of different microfluidic approaches and what new insights can be gained from various applications are introduced. Finally, future directions are discussed in which the unique combination of microfluidics and giant lipid vesicles can push forward the bottom-up construction of artificial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Robinson
- Department of Theory & Bio-Systems, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Potsdam, 14424, Germany
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31
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Stano P. Gene Expression Inside Liposomes: From Early Studies to Current Protocols. Chemistry 2019; 25:7798-7814. [DOI: 10.1002/chem.201806445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pasquale Stano
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies (DiSTeBA)University of Salento, Ecotekne 73100 Lecce Italy
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32
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Hürtgen D, Härtel T, Murray SM, Sourjik V, Schwille P. Functional Modules of Minimal Cell Division for Synthetic Biology. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 3:e1800315. [PMID: 32648714 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.201800315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2018] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Cellular reproduction is one of the fundamental hallmarks of life. Therefore, the development of a minimal division machinery capable of proper genome condensation and organization, mid-cell positioning and segregation in space and time, and the final septation process constitute a fundamental challenge for synthetic biology. It is therefore important to be able to engineer such modules for the production of artificial minimal cells. A bottom-up assembly of molecular machines from bulk biochemicals complemented by in vivo experiments as well as computational modelling helps to approach such key cellular processes. Here, minimal functional modules involved in genome segregation and the division machinery and their spatial organization and positioning are reviewed, setting into perspective the design of a minimal cell. Furthermore, the milestones of recent in vitro reconstitution experiments in the context of cell division are discussed and their role in shedding light on fundamental cellular mechanisms that constitute spatiotemporal order is described. Lastly, current challenges in the field of bottom-up synthetic biology as well as possible future developments toward the development of minimal biomimetic systems are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Hürtgen
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology and LOEWE Center for Synthetic Microbiology (Synmikro), Karl-von-Frisch Straße 16, 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Tobias Härtel
- Max Planck Institute for Biochemistry, Am Klopferspitz 18, 82152, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Seán M Murray
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology and LOEWE Center for Synthetic Microbiology (Synmikro), Karl-von-Frisch Straße 16, 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Victor Sourjik
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology and LOEWE Center for Synthetic Microbiology (Synmikro), Karl-von-Frisch Straße 16, 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Petra Schwille
- Max Planck Institute for Biochemistry, Am Klopferspitz 18, 82152, Martinsried, Germany
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33
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Exterkate M, Driessen AJM. Synthetic Minimal Cell: Self-Reproduction of the Boundary Layer. ACS OMEGA 2019; 4:5293-5303. [PMID: 30949617 PMCID: PMC6443216 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.8b02955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
A critical aspect in the bottom-up construction of a synthetic minimal cell is to develop an entity that is capable of self-reproduction. A key role in this process is the expansion and division of the boundary layer that surrounds the compartment, a process in which content loss has to be avoided and the barrier function maintained. Here, we describe the latest developments regarding self-reproduction of a boundary layer with a focus on the growth and division of phospholipid-based membranes in the context of a synthetic minimal cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marten Exterkate
- Department of Molecular Microbiology,
Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, 9747
AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Arnold J. M. Driessen
- Department of Molecular Microbiology,
Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, 9747
AG Groningen, The Netherlands
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34
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Crowe CD, Keating CD. Liquid-liquid phase separation in artificial cells. Interface Focus 2018; 8:20180032. [PMID: 30443328 PMCID: PMC6227770 DOI: 10.1098/rsfs.2018.0032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) in biology is a recently appreciated means of intracellular compartmentalization. Because the mechanisms driving phase separations are grounded in physical interactions, they can be recreated within less complex systems consisting of only a few simple components, to serve as artificial microcompartments. Within these simple systems, the effect of compartmentalization and microenvironments upon biological reactions and processes can be studied. This review will explore several approaches to incorporating LLPS as artificial cytoplasms and in artificial cells, including both segregative and associative phase separation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christine D. Keating
- Department of Chemistry, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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35
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Yewdall NA, Mason AF, van Hest JCM. The hallmarks of living systems: towards creating artificial cells. Interface Focus 2018; 8:20180023. [PMID: 30443324 PMCID: PMC6227776 DOI: 10.1098/rsfs.2018.0023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the astonishing diversity and complexity of living systems, they all share five common hallmarks: compartmentalization, growth and division, information processing, energy transduction and adaptability. In this review, we give not only examples of how cells satisfy these requirements for life and the ways in which it is possible to emulate these characteristics in engineered platforms, but also the gaps that remain to be bridged. The bottom-up synthesis of life-like systems continues to be driven forward by the advent of new technologies, by the discovery of biological phenomena through their transplantation to experimentally simpler constructs and by providing insights into one of the oldest questions posed by mankind, the origin of life on Earth.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jan C. M. van Hest
- Eindhoven University of Technology, PO Box 513 (STO 3.31), Eindhoven, MB, The Netherlands
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36
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Te Brinke E, Groen J, Herrmann A, Heus HA, Rivas G, Spruijt E, Huck WTS. Dissipative adaptation in driven self-assembly leading to self-dividing fibrils. NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY 2018; 13:849-855. [PMID: 30013214 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-018-0192-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Out-of-equilibrium self-assembly of proteins such as actin and tubulin is a key regulatory process controlling cell shape, motion and division. The design of functional nanosystems based on dissipative self-assembly has proven to be remarkably difficult due to a complete lack of control over the spatial and temporal characteristics of the assembly process. Here, we show the dissipative self-assembly of FtsZ protein (a bacterial homologue of tubulin) within coacervate droplets. More specifically, we show how such barrier-free compartments govern the local availability of the energy-rich building block guanosine triphosphate, yielding highly dynamic fibrils. The increased flux of FtsZ monomers at the tips of the fibrils results in localized FtsZ assembly, elongation of the coacervate compartments, followed by division of the fibrils into two. We rationalize the directional growth and division of the fibrils using dissipative reaction-diffusion kinetics and capillary action of the filaments as main inputs. The principle presented here, in which open compartments are used to modulate the rates of dissipative self-assembly by restricting the absorption of energy from the environment, may provide a general route to dissipatively adapting nanosystems exhibiting life-like behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esra Te Brinke
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Joost Groen
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Andreas Herrmann
- DWI Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials, Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Hans A Heus
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Germán Rivas
- Systems Biochemistry Lab, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Evan Spruijt
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Wilhelm T S Huck
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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Sato N, Ebiya Y, Kobayashi R, Nishiyama Y, Tsuzuki M. Disturbance of cell-size determination by forced overproduction of sulfoquinovosyl diacylglycerol in the cyanobacterium Synechococcus elongatus PCC 7942. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2017; 487:734-739. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2017.04.129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2017] [Accepted: 04/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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38
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Buddingh’ BC, van Hest JCM. Artificial Cells: Synthetic Compartments with Life-like Functionality and Adaptivity. Acc Chem Res 2017; 50:769-777. [PMID: 28094501 PMCID: PMC5397886 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.6b00512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 393] [Impact Index Per Article: 56.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
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Cells are highly advanced microreactors that form the basis of
all life. Their fascinating complexity has inspired scientists to
create analogs from synthetic and natural components using a bottom-up
approach. The ultimate goal here is to assemble a fully man-made cell
that displays functionality and adaptivity as advanced as that found
in nature, which will not only provide insight into the fundamental
processes in natural cells but also pave the way for new applications
of such artificial cells. In this Account, we highlight our
recent work and that of others
on the construction of artificial cells. First, we will introduce
the key features that characterize a living system; next, we will
discuss how these have been imitated in artificial cells. First, compartmentalization
is crucial to separate the inner chemical milieu from the external
environment. Current state-of-the-art artificial cells comprise subcompartments
to mimic the hierarchical architecture of eukaryotic cells and tissue.
Furthermore, synthetic gene circuits have been used to encode genetic
information that creates complex behavior like pulses or feedback.
Additionally, artificial cells have to reproduce to maintain a population.
Controlled growth and fission of synthetic compartments have been
demonstrated, but the extensive regulation of cell division in nature
is still unmatched. Here, we also point out important challenges
the field needs to
overcome to realize its full potential. As artificial cells integrate
increasing orders of functionality, maintaining a supporting metabolism
that can regenerate key metabolites becomes crucial. Furthermore,
life does not operate in isolation. Natural cells constantly sense
their environment, exchange (chemical) signals, and can move toward
a chemoattractant. Here, we specifically explore recent efforts to
reproduce such adaptivity in artificial cells. For instance, synthetic
compartments have been produced that can recruit proteins to the membrane
upon an external stimulus or modulate their membrane composition and
permeability to control their interaction with the environment. A
next step would be the communication of artificial cells with either
bacteria or another artificial cell. Indeed, examples of such primitive
chemical signaling are presented. Finally, motility is important for
many organisms and has, therefore, also been pursued in synthetic
systems. Synthetic compartments that were designed to move in a directed,
controlled manner have been assembled, and directed movement toward
a chemical attractant is among one of the most life-like directions
currently under research. Although the bottom-up construction
of an artificial cell that
can be truly considered “alive” is still an ambitious
goal, the recent work discussed in this Account shows that this is
an active field with contributions from diverse disciplines like materials
chemistry and biochemistry. Notably, research during the past decade
has already provided valuable insights into complex synthetic systems
with life-like properties. In the future, artificial cells are thought
to contribute to an increased understanding of processes in natural
cells and provide opportunities to create smart, autonomous, cell-like
materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bastiaan C. Buddingh’
- Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513
(STO 3.31), 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Jan C. M. van Hest
- Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513
(STO 3.31), 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
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Abstract
In bacteria and archaea, the most widespread cell division system is based on the tubulin homologue FtsZ protein, whose filaments form the cytokinetic Z-ring. FtsZ filaments are tethered to the membrane by anchors such as FtsA and SepF and are regulated by accessory proteins. One such set of proteins is responsible for Z-ring's spatiotemporal regulation, essential for the production of two equal-sized daughter cells. Here, we describe how our still partial understanding of the FtsZ-based cell division process has been progressed by visualising near-atomic structures of Z-rings and complexes that control Z-ring positioning in cells, most notably the MinCDE and Noc systems that act by negatively regulating FtsZ filaments. We summarise available data and how they inform mechanistic models for the cell division process.
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Lambertz C, Martos A, Henkel A, Neiser A, Kliesch TT, Janshoff A, Schwille P, Sönnichsen C. Single Particle Plasmon Sensors as Label-Free Technique To Monitor MinDE Protein Wave Propagation on Membranes. NANO LETTERS 2016; 16:3540-4. [PMID: 27172130 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.6b00507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
We use individual gold nanorods as pointlike detectors for the intrinsic dynamics of an oscillating biological system. We chose the pattern forming MinDE protein system from Escherichia coli (E. coli), a prominent example for self-organized chemical oscillations of membrane-associated proteins that are involved in the bacterial cell division process. Similar to surface plasmon resonance (SPR), the gold nanorods report changes in their protein surface coverage without the need for fluorescence labeling, a technique we refer to as NanoSPR. Comparing the dynamics for fluorescence labeled and unlabeled proteins, we find a reduction of the oscillation period by about 20%. The absence of photobleaching allows us to investigate Min proteins attaching and detaching from lipid coated gold nanorods with an unprecedented bandwidth of 100 ms time resolution and 1 h observation time. The long observation reveals small changes of the oscillation period over time. Averaging many cycles yields the precise wave profile that exhibits the four phases suggested in previous reports. Unexpected from previous fluorescence-based studies, we found an immobile static protein layer not dissociating during the oscillation cycle. Hence, NanoSPR is an attractive label-free real-time technique for the local investigation of molecular dynamics with high observation bandwidth. It gives access to systems, which cannot be fluorescently labeled, and resolves local dynamics that would average out over the sensor area used in conventional SPR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Lambertz
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, University of Mainz , Duesbergweg 10-14, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Ariadna Martos
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biophysics, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry , Am Klopferspitz 18, D-82152 Martinsried, Germany
| | - Andreas Henkel
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, University of Mainz , Duesbergweg 10-14, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Andreas Neiser
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, University of Mainz , Duesbergweg 10-14, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Torben-Tobias Kliesch
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, University of Goettingen , Tammannstrasse 6, D-37077 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Andreas Janshoff
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, University of Goettingen , Tammannstrasse 6, D-37077 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Petra Schwille
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biophysics, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry , Am Klopferspitz 18, D-82152 Martinsried, Germany
| | - Carsten Sönnichsen
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, University of Mainz , Duesbergweg 10-14, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
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Martos A, Raso A, Jiménez M, Petrášek Z, Rivas G, Schwille P. FtsZ Polymers Tethered to the Membrane by ZipA Are Susceptible to Spatial Regulation by Min Waves. Biophys J 2016; 108:2371-83. [PMID: 25954894 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2015.03.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2014] [Revised: 03/04/2015] [Accepted: 03/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial cell division is driven by an FtsZ ring in which the FtsZ protein localizes at mid-cell and recruits other proteins, forming a divisome. In Escherichia coli, the first molecular assembly of the divisome, the proto-ring, is formed by the association of FtsZ polymers to the cytoplasmic membrane through the membrane-tethering FtsA and ZipA proteins. The MinCDE system plays a major role in the site selection of the division ring because these proteins oscillate from pole to pole in such a way that the concentration of the FtsZ-ring inhibitor, MinC, is minimal at the cell center, thus favoring FtsZ assembly in this region. We show that MinCDE drives the formation of waves of FtsZ polymers associated to bilayers by ZipA, which propagate as antiphase patterns with respect to those of Min as revealed by confocal fluorescence microscopy. The emergence of these FtsZ waves results from the displacement of FtsZ polymers from the vicinity of the membrane by MinCD, which efficiently competes with ZipA for the C-terminal region of FtsZ, a central hub for multiple interactions that are essential for division. The coupling between FtsZ polymers and Min is enhanced at higher surface densities of ZipA or in the presence of crowding agents that favor the accumulation of FtsZ polymers near the membrane. The association of FtsZ polymers to the membrane modifies the response of FtsZ to Min, and comigrating Min-FtsZ waves are observed when FtsZ is free in solution and not attached to the membrane by ZipA. Taken together, our findings show that the dynamic Min patterns modulate the spatial distribution of FtsZ polymers in controlled minimal membranes. We propose that ZipA plays an important role in mid-cell recruitment of FtsZ orchestrated by MinCDE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariadna Martos
- Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Ana Raso
- Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Martinsried, Germany; Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Zdeněk Petrášek
- Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Martinsried, Germany; Institut für Biotechnologie und Bioprozesstechnik, Graz, Austria
| | - Germán Rivas
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Petra Schwille
- Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Martinsried, Germany.
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43
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Doxorubicin inhibits E. coli division by interacting at a novel site in FtsZ. Biochem J 2015; 471:335-46. [PMID: 26285656 DOI: 10.1042/bj20150467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2015] [Accepted: 08/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The increase in antibiotic resistance has become a major health concern in recent times. It is therefore essential to identify novel antibacterial targets as well as discover and develop new antibacterial agents. FtsZ, a highly conserved bacterial protein, is responsible for the initiation of cell division in bacteria. The functions of FtsZ inside cells are tightly regulated and any perturbation in its functions leads to inhibition of bacterial division. Recent reports indicate that small molecules targeting the functions of FtsZ may be used as leads to develop new antibacterial agents. To identify small molecules targeting FtsZ and inhibiting bacterial division, we screened a U.S. FDA (Food and Drug Administration)-approved drug library of 800 molecules using an independent computational, biochemical and microbial approach. From this screen, we identified doxorubicin, an anthracycline molecule that inhibits Escherichia coli division and forms filamentous cells. A fluorescence-binding assay shows that doxorubicin interacts strongly with FtsZ. A detailed biochemical analysis demonstrated that doxorubicin inhibits FtsZ assembly and its GTPase activity through binding to a site other than the GTP-binding site. Furthermore, using molecular docking, we identified a probable doxorubicin-binding site in FtsZ. A number of single amino acid mutations at the identified binding site in FtsZ resulted in a severalfold decrease in the affinity of FtsZ for doxorubicin, indicating the importance of this site for doxorubicin interaction. The present study suggests the presence of a novel binding site in FtsZ that interacts with the small molecules and can be targeted for the screening and development of new antibacterial agents.
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44
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Haeusser DP, Rowlett VW, Margolin W. A mutation in Escherichia coli ftsZ bypasses the requirement for the essential division gene zipA and confers resistance to FtsZ assembly inhibitors by stabilizing protofilament bundling. Mol Microbiol 2015; 97:988-1005. [PMID: 26046682 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.13081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The earliest step in Escherichia coli cell division consists of the assembly of FtsZ protein into a proto-ring structure, tethered to the cytoplasmic membrane by FtsA and ZipA. The proto-ring then recruits additional cell division proteins to form the divisome. Previously we described an ftsZ allele, ftsZL169R , which maps to the side of the FtsZ subunit and confers resistance to FtsZ assembly inhibitory factors including Kil of bacteriophage λ. Here we further characterize this allele and its mechanism of resistance. We found that FtsZL169R permits the bypass of the normally essential ZipA, a property previously observed for FtsA gain-of-function mutants such as FtsA* or increased levels of the FtsA-interacting protein FtsN. Similar to FtsA*, FtsZL169R also can partially suppress thermosensitive mutants of ftsQ or ftsK, which encode additional divisome proteins, and confers strong resistance to excess levels of FtsA, which normally inhibit FtsZ ring function. Additional genetic and biochemical assays provide further evidence that FtsZL169R enhances FtsZ protofilament bundling, thereby conferring resistance to assembly inhibitors and bypassing the normal requirement for ZipA. This work highlights the importance of FtsZ protofilament bundling during cell division and its likely role in regulating additional divisome activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel P Haeusser
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Medical School at Houston, 6431 Fannin St., Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Veronica W Rowlett
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Medical School at Houston, 6431 Fannin St., Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - William Margolin
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Medical School at Houston, 6431 Fannin St., Houston, TX, 77030, USA
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Rowlett VW, Margolin W. The Min system and other nucleoid-independent regulators of Z ring positioning. Front Microbiol 2015; 6:478. [PMID: 26029202 PMCID: PMC4429545 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2015.00478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 04/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rod-shaped bacteria such as E. coli have mechanisms to position their cell division plane at the precise center of the cell, to ensure that the daughter cells are equal in size. The two main mechanisms are the Min system and nucleoid occlusion (NO), both of which work by inhibiting assembly of FtsZ, the tubulin-like scaffold that forms the cytokinetic Z ring. Whereas NO prevents Z rings from constricting over unsegregated nucleoids, the Min system is nucleoid-independent and even functions in cells lacking nucleoids and thus NO. The Min proteins of E. coli and B. subtilis form bipolar gradients that inhibit Z ring formation most at the cell poles and least at the nascent division plane. This article will outline the molecular mechanisms behind Min function in E. coli and B. subtilis, and discuss distinct Z ring positioning systems in other bacterial species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica W Rowlett
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Medical School at Houston , Houston, TX, USA
| | - William Margolin
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Medical School at Houston , Houston, TX, USA
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Kretschmer S, Schwille P. Toward Spatially Regulated Division of Protocells: Insights into the E. coli Min System from in Vitro Studies. Life (Basel) 2014; 4:915-28. [PMID: 25513760 PMCID: PMC4284474 DOI: 10.3390/life4040915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Revised: 11/25/2014] [Accepted: 12/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
For reconstruction of controlled cell division in a minimal cell model, or protocell, a positioning mechanism that spatially regulates division is indispensable. In Escherichia coli, the Min proteins oscillate from pole to pole to determine the division site by inhibition of the primary divisome protein FtsZ anywhere but in the cell middle. Remarkably, when reconstituted under defined conditions in vitro, the Min proteins self-organize into spatiotemporal patterns in the presence of a lipid membrane and ATP. We review recent progress made in studying the Min system in vitro, particularly focusing on the effects of various physicochemical parameters and boundary conditions on pattern formation. Furthermore, we discuss implications and challenges for utilizing the Min system for division site placement in protocells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Kretschmer
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biophysics, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Am Klopferspitz 18, Martinsried 82152, Germany.
| | - Petra Schwille
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biophysics, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Am Klopferspitz 18, Martinsried 82152, Germany.
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Rivas G, Vogel SK, Schwille P. Reconstitution of cytoskeletal protein assemblies for large-scale membrane transformation. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2014; 22:18-26. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2014.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2014] [Revised: 07/18/2014] [Accepted: 07/21/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Abstract
Realization of a functional artificial cell, the so-called protocell, is a major challenge posed by synthetic biology. A subsequent goal is to use the protocellular units for the bottom-up assembly of prototissues. There is, however, a looming chasm in our knowledge between protocells and prototissues. In the present paper, we give a brief overview of the work on protocells to date, followed by a discussion on the rational design of key structural elements specific to linking two protocellular bilayers. We propose that designing synthetic parts capable of simultaneous insertion into two bilayers may be crucial in the hierarchical assembly of protocells into a functional prototissue.
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Reconstitution of membrane protein complexes involved in pneumococcal septal cell wall assembly. PLoS One 2013; 8:e75522. [PMID: 24147156 PMCID: PMC3798694 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0075522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2013] [Accepted: 08/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The synthesis of peptidoglycan, the major component of the bacterial cell wall, is essential to cell survival, yet its mechanism remains poorly understood. In the present work, we have isolated several membrane protein complexes consisting of the late division proteins of Streptococcus pneumoniae: DivIB, DivIC, FtsL, PBP2x and FtsW, or subsets thereof. We have co-expressed membrane proteins from S. pneumoniae in Escherichia coli. By combining two successive affinity chromatography steps, we obtained membrane protein complexes with a very good purity. These complexes are functional, as indicated by the retained activity of PBP2x to bind a fluorescent derivative of penicillin and to hydrolyze the substrate analogue S2d. Moreover, we have evidenced the stabilizing role of protein-protein interactions within each complex. This work paves the way for a complete reconstitution of peptidoglycan synthesis in vitro, which will be critical to the elucidation of its intricate regulation mechanisms.
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50
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Lentini R, Forlin M, Martini L, Del Bianco C, Spencer AC, Torino D, Mansy SS. Fluorescent proteins and in vitro genetic organization for cell-free synthetic biology. ACS Synth Biol 2013; 2:482-9. [PMID: 23654270 DOI: 10.1021/sb400003y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
To facilitate the construction of cell-free genetic devices, we evaluated the ability of 17 different fluorescent proteins to give easily detectable fluorescence signals in real-time from in vitro transcription-translation reactions with a minimal system consisting of T7 RNA polymerase and E. coli translation machinery, i.e., the PUREsystem. The data were used to construct a ratiometric fluorescence assay to quantify the effect of genetic organization on in vitro expression levels. Synthetic operons with varied spacing and sequence composition between two genes that coded for fluorescent proteins were then assembled. The resulting data indicated which restriction sites and where the restriction sites should be placed in order to build genetic devices in a manner that does not interfere with protein expression. Other simple design rules were identified, such as the spacing and sequence composition influences of regions upstream and downstream of ribosome binding sites and the ability of non-AUG start codons to function in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Lentini
- CIBIO, University of Trento, via delle Regole 101, 38123 Mattarello (TN),
Italy
| | - Michele Forlin
- CIBIO, University of Trento, via delle Regole 101, 38123 Mattarello (TN),
Italy
| | - Laura Martini
- CIBIO, University of Trento, via delle Regole 101, 38123 Mattarello (TN),
Italy
| | - Cristina Del Bianco
- CIBIO, University of Trento, via delle Regole 101, 38123 Mattarello (TN),
Italy
| | - Amy C. Spencer
- CIBIO, University of Trento, via delle Regole 101, 38123 Mattarello (TN),
Italy
| | - Domenica Torino
- CIBIO, University of Trento, via delle Regole 101, 38123 Mattarello (TN),
Italy
| | - Sheref S. Mansy
- CIBIO, University of Trento, via delle Regole 101, 38123 Mattarello (TN),
Italy
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