1
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Gangemi CG, Janovjak H. Optogenetics in Pancreatic Islets: Actuators and Effects. Diabetes 2024; 73:1566-1582. [PMID: 38976779 PMCID: PMC11417442 DOI: 10.2337/db23-1022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
The islets of Langerhans reside within the endocrine pancreas as highly vascularized microorgans that are responsible for the secretion of key hormones, such as insulin and glucagon. Islet function relies on a range of dynamic molecular processes that include Ca2+ waves, hormone pulses, and complex interactions between islet cell types. Dysfunction of these processes results in poor maintenance of blood glucose homeostasis and is a hallmark of diabetes. Recently, the development of optogenetic methods that rely on light-sensitive molecular actuators has allowed perturbation of islet function with near physiological spatiotemporal acuity. These actuators harness natural photoreceptor proteins and their engineered variants to manipulate mouse and human cells that are not normally light-responsive. Until recently, optogenetics in islet biology has primarily focused on controlling hormone production and secretion; however, studies on further aspects of islet function, including paracrine regulation between islet cell types and dynamics within intracellular signaling pathways, are emerging. Here, we discuss the applicability of optogenetics to islets cells and comprehensively review seminal as well as recent work on optogenetic actuators and their effects in islet function and diabetes mellitus. ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina G. Gangemi
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory Australia, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Harald Janovjak
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
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2
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Galvan S, Teixeira AP, Fussenegger M. Enhancing cell-based therapies with synthetic gene circuits responsive to molecular stimuli. Biotechnol Bioeng 2024; 121:2987-3000. [PMID: 38867466 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28770] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic biology aims to contribute to the development of next-generation patient-specific cell-based therapies for chronic diseases especially through the construction of sophisticated synthetic gene switches to enhance the safety and spatiotemporal controllability of engineered cells. Indeed, switches that sense and process specific cues, which may be either externally administered triggers or endogenous disease-associated molecules, have emerged as powerful tools for programming and fine-tuning therapeutic outputs. Living engineered cells, often referred to as designer cells, incorporating such switches are delivered to patients either as encapsulated cell implants or by infusion, as in the case of the clinically approved CAR-T cell therapies. Here, we review recent developments in synthetic gene switches responsive to molecular stimuli, spanning regulatory mechanisms acting at the transcriptional, translational, and posttranslational levels. We also discuss current challenges facing clinical translation of cell-based therapies employing these devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Galvan
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ana P Teixeira
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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3
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Maity D, Guha Ray P, Fussenegger M. Glucose-Operated Widget (GLOW) for Closed-Loop Optogenetic Glycemic Control. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2408537. [PMID: 39210629 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202408537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Closed-loop control systems for precise control of therapeutic gene expression are promising candidates for personalized treatment of chronic ailments such as diabetes. Pancreatic iβ-cells are engineered with blue-light-inducible melanopsin to drive rapid insulin release by vesicular secretion from intracellular stores. In this work, a glucose-operated widget (GLOW) is designed as a component of a closed-loop control system for diabetes treatment by employing a probe that emits blue fluorescence in a glucose-concentration-dependent manner as a real-time glucose sensor to precisely control insulin release from these iβ-cells. As proof-of-concept of the complete control system, the probe is encapsulated together with iβ-cells in alginate-poly-(L-lysine) hydrogel-microbeads(400 µm in diameter and containing about 500 cells) called GLOWiβ (GLOW with iβ-cells), are subcutaneously implanted into type-1-diabetic (T1D) mice. Illumination by UV-A light at 390 nm results in glucose-concentration-dependent blue-light emission from the probe at 445 nm that in turn induces glucose-concentration-dependent insulin release from the iβ-cells in a fully reversible manner. Activation of the injected GLOWiβ at 390 nm for 15 min effectively restores normoglycemia within 60-120 min in a closed-loop manner in these diabetic mice. The system is robust, as normoglycemia is well maintained by daily activation for at least 7 days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debasis Maity
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Klingelbergstrasse 48, Basel, CH-4056, Switzerland
| | - Preetam Guha Ray
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Klingelbergstrasse 48, Basel, CH-4056, Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Klingelbergstrasse 48, Basel, CH-4056, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 48, Basel, CH-4056, Switzerland
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4
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Deng X, Peng D, Yao Y, Huang K, Wang J, Ma Z, Fu J, Xu Y. Optogenetic therapeutic strategies for diabetes mellitus. J Diabetes 2024; 16:e13557. [PMID: 38751366 PMCID: PMC11096815 DOI: 10.1111/1753-0407.13557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common chronic disease affecting humans globally. It is characterized by abnormally elevated blood glucose levels due to the failure of insulin production or reduction of insulin sensitivity and functionality. Insulin and glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 replenishment or improvement of insulin resistance are the two major strategies to treat diabetes. Recently, optogenetics that uses genetically encoded light-sensitive proteins to precisely control cell functions has been regarded as a novel therapeutic strategy for diabetes. Here, we summarize the latest development of optogenetics and its integration with synthetic biology approaches to produce light-responsive cells for insulin/GLP-1 production, amelioration of insulin resistance and neuromodulation of insulin secretion. In addition, we introduce the development of cell encapsulation and delivery methods and smart bioelectronic devices for the in vivo application of optogenetics-based cell therapy in diabetes. The remaining challenges for optogenetics-based cell therapy in the clinical translational study are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Deng
- Department of EndocrinologyChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child HealthHangzhouChina
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, MOE Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardio‐Cerebral Vascular Detection Technology and Medicinal Effectiveness Appraisal, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Clinical Evaluation and Translational ResearchZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Dandan Peng
- Department of EndocrinologyChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child HealthHangzhouChina
| | - Yuanfa Yao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, MOE Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardio‐Cerebral Vascular Detection Technology and Medicinal Effectiveness Appraisal, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Clinical Evaluation and Translational ResearchZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Ke Huang
- Department of EndocrinologyChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child HealthHangzhouChina
| | - Jinling Wang
- Department of EndocrinologyChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child HealthHangzhouChina
| | - Zhihao Ma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, MOE Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardio‐Cerebral Vascular Detection Technology and Medicinal Effectiveness Appraisal, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Clinical Evaluation and Translational ResearchZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Junfen Fu
- Department of EndocrinologyChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child HealthHangzhouChina
| | - Yingke Xu
- Department of EndocrinologyChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child HealthHangzhouChina
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, MOE Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardio‐Cerebral Vascular Detection Technology and Medicinal Effectiveness Appraisal, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Clinical Evaluation and Translational ResearchZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Binjiang Institute of Zhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
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5
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Chen Z, Stoukides DM, Tzanakakis ES. Light-Mediated Enhancement of Glucose-Stimulated Insulin Release of Optogenetically Engineered Human Pancreatic Beta-Cells. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:825-836. [PMID: 38377949 PMCID: PMC10949932 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00653] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Enhancement of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) in exogenously delivered pancreatic β-cells is desirable, for example, to overcome the insulin resistance manifested in type 2 diabetes or to reduce the number of β-cells for supporting homeostasis of blood sugar in type 1 diabetes. Optogenetically engineered cells can potentiate their function with exposure to light. Given that cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) mediates GSIS, we surmised that optoamplification of GSIS is feasible in human β-cells carrying a photoactivatable adenylyl cyclase (PAC). To this end, human EndoC-βH3 cells were engineered to express a blue-light-activated PAC, and a workflow was established combining the scalable manufacturing of pseudoislets (PIs) with efficient adenoviral transduction, resulting in over 80% of cells carrying PAC. Changes in intracellular cAMP and GSIS were determined with the photoactivation of PAC in vitro as well as after encapsulation and implantation in mice with streptozotocin-induced diabetes. cAMP rapidly rose in β-cells expressing PAC with illumination and quickly declined upon its termination. Light-induced amplification in cAMP was concomitant with a greater than 2-fold GSIS vs β-cells without PAC in elevated glucose. The enhanced GSIS retained its biphasic pattern, and the rate of oxygen consumption remained unchanged. Diabetic mice receiving the engineered β-cell PIs exhibited improved glucose tolerance upon illumination compared to those kept in the dark or not receiving cells. The findings support the use of optogenetics for molecular customization of the β-cells toward better treatments for diabetes without the adverse effects of pharmacological approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijing Chen
- Department
of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
| | - Demetrios M. Stoukides
- Department
of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
| | - Emmanuel S. Tzanakakis
- Department
of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
- Department
of Developmental, Molecular and Cell Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts 02111, United States
- Graduate
Program in Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics and Pharmacology
and Drug Development, Tufts University School
of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts 02111, United States
- Clinical
and Translational Science Institute, Tufts
Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts 02111, United States
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6
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Mansouri M, Fussenegger M. Small-Molecule Regulators for Gene Switches to Program Mammalian Cell Behaviour. Chembiochem 2024; 25:e202300717. [PMID: 38081780 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202300717] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic or natural small molecules have been extensively employed as trigger signals or inducers to regulate engineered gene circuits introduced into living cells in order to obtain desired outputs in a controlled and predictable manner. Here, we provide an overview of small molecules used to drive synthetic-biology-based gene circuits in mammalian cells, together with examples of applications at different levels of control, including regulation of DNA manipulation, RNA synthesis and editing, and protein synthesis, maturation, and trafficking. We also discuss the therapeutic potential of these small-molecule-responsive gene circuits, focusing on the advantages and disadvantages of using small molecules as triggers, the mechanisms involved, and the requirements for selecting suitable molecules, including efficiency, specificity, orthogonality, and safety. Finally, we explore potential future directions for translation of these devices to clinical medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maysam Mansouri
- ETH Zurich, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, Klingelbergstrasse 48, CH-4056, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- ETH Zurich, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, Klingelbergstrasse 48, CH-4056, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Faculty of Science, Klingelbergstrasse 48, CH-4056, Basel, Switzerland
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7
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Wang X, Liang Q, Luo Y, Ye J, Yu Y, Chen F. Engineering the next generation of theranostic biomaterials with synthetic biology. Bioact Mater 2024; 32:514-529. [PMID: 38026437 PMCID: PMC10660023 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Biomaterials have evolved from inert materials to responsive entities, playing a crucial role in disease diagnosis, treatment, and modeling. However, their advancement is hindered by limitations in chemical and mechanical approaches. Synthetic biology enabling the genetically reprograming of biological systems offers a new paradigm. It has achieved remarkable progresses in cell reprogramming, engineering designer cells for diverse applications. Synthetic biology also encompasses cell-free systems and rational design of biological molecules. This review focuses on the application of synthetic biology in theranostics, which boost rapid development of advanced biomaterials. We introduce key fundamental concepts of synthetic biology and highlight frontier applications thereof, aiming to explore the intersection of synthetic biology and biomaterials. This integration holds tremendous promise for advancing biomaterial engineering with programable complex functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Wang
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Qianyi Liang
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Yixuan Luo
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Jianwen Ye
- School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Yin Yu
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Fei Chen
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
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8
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Mansouri M, Fussenegger M. Posttranslational Remote Control Mediated by Physical Inducers for Rapid Protein Release in Engineered Mammalian Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2774:233-241. [PMID: 38441768 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3718-0_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Physical cues such as light, heat, or an electrical field can be utilized for traceless, on-demand activation of the expression of a desired therapeutic gene in appropriately engineered cells with excellent spatiotemporal resolution, good inducibility, and simple reversibility. A similar approach can be applied to build a depolarization-based protein secretion system that enables rapid release of a therapeutic protein pre-stored in intracellular vesicles in mammalian cells. Here, we present a protocol to create designer β-cells that exhibit light-controllable rapid release (within 15 min) of a pre-synthesized proinsulin-nanoluciferase construct from vesicular stores. The construct is cleaved extracellularly to afford secreted insulin as a therapeutic protein and nanoluciferase as a reporter molecule. Such posttranslational remote control offers a much faster response than expression-based systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maysam Mansouri
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland.
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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9
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Ribezzi D, Gueye M, Florczak S, Dusi F, de Vos D, Manente F, Hierholzer A, Fussenegger M, Caiazzo M, Blunk T, Malda J, Levato R. Shaping Synthetic Multicellular and Complex Multimaterial Tissues via Embedded Extrusion-Volumetric Printing of Microgels. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2301673. [PMID: 37269532 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202301673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
In living tissues, cells express their functions following complex signals from their surrounding microenvironment. Capturing both hierarchical architectures at the micro- and macroscale, and anisotropic cell patterning remains a major challenge in bioprinting, and a bottleneck toward creating physiologically-relevant models. Addressing this limitation, a novel technique is introduced, termed Embedded Extrusion-Volumetric Printing (EmVP), converging extrusion-bioprinting and layer-less, ultra-fast volumetric bioprinting, allowing spatially pattern multiple inks/cell types. Light-responsive microgels are developed for the first time as bioresins (µResins) for light-based volumetric bioprinting, providing a microporous environment permissive for cell homing and self-organization. Tuning the mechanical and optical properties of gelatin-based microparticles enables their use as support bath for suspended extrusion printing, in which features containing high cell densities can be easily introduced. µResins can be sculpted within seconds with tomographic light projections into centimeter-scale, granular hydrogel-based, convoluted constructs. Interstitial microvoids enhanced differentiation of multiple stem/progenitor cells (vascular, mesenchymal, neural), otherwise not possible with conventional bulk hydrogels. As proof-of-concept, EmVP is applied to create complex synthetic biology-inspired intercellular communication models, where adipocyte differentiation is regulated by optogenetic-engineered pancreatic cells. Overall, EmVP offers new avenues for producing regenerative grafts with biological functionality, and for developing engineered living systems and (metabolic) disease models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Ribezzi
- Department of Orthopaedics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, 3584 CX, The Netherlands
| | - Marième Gueye
- Department of Orthopaedics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, 3584 CX, The Netherlands
| | - Sammy Florczak
- Department of Orthopaedics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, 3584 CX, The Netherlands
| | - Franziska Dusi
- Department of Trauma, Hand, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacher Str. 6, 97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Dieuwke de Vos
- Department of Orthopaedics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, 3584 CX, The Netherlands
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 99, Utrecht, 3584 CG, The Netherlands
| | - Francesca Manente
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 99, Utrecht, 3584 CG, The Netherlands
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini 5, Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Andreas Hierholzer
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, CH-4058, Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, CH-4058, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, CH-4058, Switzerland
| | - Massimiliano Caiazzo
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 99, Utrecht, 3584 CG, The Netherlands
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini 5, Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Torsten Blunk
- Department of Trauma, Hand, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacher Str. 6, 97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jos Malda
- Department of Orthopaedics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, 3584 CX, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, 3584 CT, The Netherlands
| | - Riccardo Levato
- Department of Orthopaedics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, 3584 CX, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, 3584 CT, The Netherlands
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10
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Choi J, Shin E, Lee J, Devarasou S, Kim D, Shin JH, Choi JH, Heo WD, Han YM. Light-stimulated insulin secretion from pancreatic islet-like organoids derived from human pluripotent stem cells. Mol Ther 2023; 31:1480-1495. [PMID: 36932674 PMCID: PMC10188912 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Optogenetic techniques permit non-invasive, spatiotemporal, and reversible modulation of cellular activities. Here, we report a novel optogenetic regulatory system for insulin secretion in human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived pancreatic islet-like organoids using monSTIM1 (monster-opto-Stromal interaction molecule 1), an ultra-light-sensitive OptoSTIM1 variant. The monSTIM1 transgene was incorporated at the AAVS1 locus in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) by CRISPR-Cas9-mediated genome editing. Not only were we able to elicit light-induced intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) transients from the resulting homozygous monSTIM1+/+-hESCs, but we also successfully differentiated them into pancreatic islet-like organoids (PIOs). Upon light stimulation, the β-cells in these monSTIM1+/+-PIOs displayed reversible and reproducible [Ca2+]i transient dynamics. Furthermore, in response to photoexcitation, they secreted human insulin. Light-responsive insulin secretion was similarly observed in monSTIM1+/+-PIOs produced from neonatal diabetes (ND) patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Under LED illumination, monSTIM1+/+-PIO-transplanted diabetic mice produced human c-peptide. Collectively, we developed a cellular model for the optogenetic control of insulin secretion using hPSCs, with the potential to be applied to the amelioration of hyperglycemic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieun Choi
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunji Shin
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinsu Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Dongkyu Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Jennifer H Shin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Ho Choi
- Department of Pediatrics, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Do Heo
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea.
| | - Yong-Mahn Han
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea; Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea.
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11
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Maity D, Guha Ray P, Buchmann P, Mansouri M, Fussenegger M. Blood-Glucose-Powered Metabolic Fuel Cell for Self-Sufficient Bioelectronics. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2300890. [PMID: 36893359 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202300890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Currently available bioelectronic devices consume too much power to be continuously operated on rechargeable batteries, and are often powered wirelessly, with attendant issues regarding reliability, convenience, and mobility. Thus, the availability of a robust, self-sufficient, implantable electrical power generator that works under physiological conditions would be transformative for many applications, from driving bioelectronic implants and prostheses to programing cellular behavior and patients' metabolism. Here, capitalizing on a new copper-containing, conductively tuned 3D carbon nanotube composite, an implantable blood-glucose-powered metabolic fuel cell is designed that continuously monitors blood-glucose levels, converts excess glucose into electrical power during hyperglycemia, and produces sufficient energy (0.7 mW cm-2 , 0.9 V, 50 mm glucose) to drive opto- and electro-genetic regulation of vesicular insulin release from engineered beta cells. It is shown that this integration of blood-glucose monitoring with elimination of excessive blood glucose by combined electro-metabolic conversion and insulin-release-mediated cellular consumption enables the metabolic fuel cell to restore blood-glucose homeostasis in an automatic, self-sufficient, and closed-loop manner in an experimental model of type-1 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debasis Maity
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, CH-4058, Switzerland
| | - Preetam Guha Ray
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, CH-4058, Switzerland
| | - Peter Buchmann
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, CH-4058, Switzerland
| | - Maysam Mansouri
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, CH-4058, Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, CH-4058, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, CH-4058, Switzerland
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12
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Lu Q, Wang Z, Bai S, Wang Y, Liao C, Sun Y, Zhang Y, Li W, Mei Q. Hydrophobicity Regulation of Energy Acceptors Confined in Mesoporous Silica Enabled Reversible Activation of Optogenetics for Closed-Loop Glycemic Control. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:5941-5951. [PMID: 36867047 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c13762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
Optogenetics-based synthetic biology holds great promise as a cell-based therapy strategy for many clinical incurable diseases; however, precise control over genetic expression strength and timing through disease state-related closed-loop regulation remains a challenge due to the lack of reversible probes to indicate real-time metabolite fluctuations. Here, based on a novel mechanism of analyte-induced hydrophobicity regulation of energy acceptors confined in mesoporous silica, we developed a smart hydrogel platform comprising glucose reversible responsive upconversion nanoprobes and optogenetic engineered cells, in which the upconverted blue light strength was adaptively tuned through blood glucose levels to control optogenetic expressions for insulin secretion. The intelligent hydrogel system enabled convenient maintenance of glycemic homeostasis through simple near-infrared illuminations without any additional glucose concentration monitoring, which efficiently avoided genetic overexpression-induced hypoglycemia. This proof-of-concept strategy efficiently combines diagnostics with optogenetics-based synthetic biology for mellitus therapy, opening up a new avenue for nano-optogenetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Lu
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China
| | - Zihe Wang
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China
| | - Shumin Bai
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China
| | - Cheng Liao
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China
| | - Yaru Sun
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Dongguan, Guangdong 523560, China
| | - Qingsong Mei
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China.,Key Laboratory of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of the People's Republic of China, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China
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13
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Mansouri M, Ray PG, Franko N, Xue S, Fussenegger M. Design of programmable post-translational switch control platform for on-demand protein secretion in mammalian cells. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 51:e1. [PMID: 36268868 PMCID: PMC9841418 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of novel strategies to program cellular behaviors is a central goal in synthetic biology, and post-translational control mediated by engineered protein circuits is a particularly attractive approach to achieve rapid protein secretion on demand. We have developed a programmable protease-mediated post-translational switch (POSH) control platform composed of a chimeric protein unit that consists of a protein of interest fused via a transmembrane domain to a cleavable ER-retention signal, together with two cytosolic inducer-sensitive split protease components. The protease components combine in the presence of the specific inducer to generate active protease, which cleaves the ER-retention signal, releasing the transmembrane-domain-linked protein for trafficking to the trans-Golgi region. A furin site placed downstream of the protein ensures cleavage and subsequent secretion of the desired protein. We show that stimuli ranging from plant-derived, clinically compatible chemicals to remotely controllable inducers such as light and electrostimulation can program protein secretion in various POSH-engineered designer mammalian cells. As proof-of-concept, an all-in-one POSH control plasmid encoding insulin and abscisic acid-activatable split protease units was hydrodynamically transfected into the liver of type-1 diabetic mice. Induction with abscisic acid attenuated glycemic excursions in glucose-tolerance tests. Increased blood levels of insulin were maintained for 12 days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maysam Mansouri
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Preetam Guha Ray
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nik Franko
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Shuai Xue
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +41 61 387 31 60; Fax: +41 61 387 39 88;
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14
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Stefanov BA, Mansouri M, Charpin-El Hamri G, Fussenegger M. Sunlight-Controllable Biopharmaceutical Production for Remote Emergency Supply of Directly Injectable Therapeutic Proteins. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2022; 18:e2202566. [PMID: 36084222 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202202566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Biopharmaceutical manufacturing requires specialized facilities and a long-range cold supply chain for the delivery of the therapeutics to patients. In order to produce biopharmaceuticals in locations lacking such infrastructure, a production process is designed that utilizes the trigger-inducible release of large quantities of a stored therapeutic protein from engineered endocrine cells within minutes to generate a directly injectable saline solution of the protein. To illustrate the versatility of this approach, it is shown that not only insulin, but also glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), nanoluciferase (NLuc), and the model biopharmaceutical erythropoietin (EPO) can be trigger-inducibly released, even when using biologically inactive insulin as a carrier. The facilitating beta cells are engineered with a controllable TRPV1-mediated Ca2+ influx that induces the fusion of cytoplasmic storage vesicles with the membrane, leading to the release of the stored protein. When required, the growth medium is exchanged for saline solution, and the system is stimulated with the small molecule capsaicin, with a hand-warming pack, or simply by using sunlight. Injection of insulin saline solution obtained in this way into a type-1 diabetes mouse model results in the regulation of blood glucose levels. It is believed that this system will be readily adaptable to deliver various biopharmaceutical proteins at remote locations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bozhidar-Adrian Stefanov
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
| | - Maysam Mansouri
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
| | - Ghislaine Charpin-El Hamri
- Département Génie Biologique, Institut Universitaire de Technologie, Villeurbanne, Cedex F-69622, France
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
- Faculty of Life Science, University of Basel, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
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15
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Fischer AAM, Kramer MM, Radziwill G, Weber W. Shedding light on current trends in molecular optogenetics. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2022; 70:102196. [PMID: 35988347 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2022.102196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Molecular optogenetics is a highly dynamic research field. In the past two years, the field was characterized by the development of new allosteric switches as well as the forward integration of optogenetics research towards application. Further, two areas of research have significantly gathered momentum, the use of optogenetics to control liquid-liquid phase separation as well as the application of optogenetic tools in the extracellular space. Here, we review these areas and discuss future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra A M Fischer
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 18, 79104 Freiburg, Germany; Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 18, 79104 Freiburg, Germany; Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine (SGBM), University of Freiburg, Albertstrasse 21a, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Markus M Kramer
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 18, 79104 Freiburg, Germany; Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 18, 79104 Freiburg, Germany; Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine (SGBM), University of Freiburg, Albertstrasse 21a, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Gerald Radziwill
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 18, 79104 Freiburg, Germany; Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 18, 79104 Freiburg, Germany; Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine (SGBM), University of Freiburg, Albertstrasse 21a, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Wilfried Weber
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 18, 79104 Freiburg, Germany; Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 18, 79104 Freiburg, Germany; Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine (SGBM), University of Freiburg, Albertstrasse 21a, 79104 Freiburg, Germany.
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16
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Emerging molecular technologies for light-mediated modulation of pancreatic beta-cell function. Mol Metab 2022; 64:101552. [PMID: 35863638 PMCID: PMC9352964 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2022.101552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Optogenetic modalities as well as optochemical and photopharmacological strategies, collectively termed optical methods, have revolutionized the control of cellular functions via light with great spatiotemporal precision. In comparison to the major advances in the photomodulation of signaling activities noted in neuroscience, similar applications to endocrine cells of the pancreas, particularly insulin-producing β-cells, have been limited. The availability of tools allowing light-mediated changes in the trafficking of ions such as K+ and Ca2+ and signaling intermediates such as cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), renders β-cells and their glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) amenable to optoengineering for drug-free control of blood sugar. Scope of review The molecular circuit of the GSIS in β-cells is described with emphasis on intermediates which are targetable for optical intervention. Various pharmacological agents modifying the release of insulin are reviewed along with their documented side effects. These are contrasted with optical approaches, which have already been employed for engineering β-cell function or are considered for future such applications. Principal obstacles are also discussed as the implementation of optogenetics is pondered for tissue engineering and biology applications of the pancreas. Major Conclusions Notable advances in optogenetic, optochemical and photopharmacological tools are rendering feasible the smart engineering of pancreatic cells and tissues with light-regulated function paving the way for novel solutions for addressing pancreatic pathologies including diabetes.
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Mansouri M, Fussenegger M. Therapeutic cell engineering: designing programmable synthetic genetic circuits in mammalian cells. Protein Cell 2022; 13:476-489. [PMID: 34586617 PMCID: PMC9226217 DOI: 10.1007/s13238-021-00876-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell therapy approaches that employ engineered mammalian cells for on-demand production of therapeutic agents in the patient's body are moving beyond proof-of-concept in translational medicine. The therapeutic cells can be customized to sense user-defined signals, process them, and respond in a programmable and predictable way. In this paper, we introduce the available tools and strategies employed to design therapeutic cells. Then, various approaches to control cell behaviors, including open-loop and closed-loop systems, are discussed. We also highlight therapeutic applications of engineered cells for early diagnosis and treatment of various diseases in the clinic and in experimental disease models. Finally, we consider emerging technologies such as digital devices and their potential for incorporation into future cell-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maysam Mansouri
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058, Basel, Switzerland.
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058, Basel, Switzerland.
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18
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Mansouri M, Fussenegger M. Electrogenetics: Bridging synthetic biology and electronics to remotely control the behavior of mammalian designer cells. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2022; 68:102151. [PMID: 35483127 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2022.102151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Electrogenetics, the combination of electronics and genetics, is an emerging field of mammalian synthetic biology in which electrostimulation is used to remotely program user-designed genetic elements within designer cells to generate desired outputs. Here, we describe recent advances in electro-induced therapeutic gene expression and therapeutic protein secretion in engineered mammalian cells. We also review available tools and strategies to engineer electro-sensitive therapeutic designer cells that are able to sense electrical pulses and produce appropriate clinically relevant outputs in response. We highlight current limitations facing mammalian electrogenetics and suggest potential future directions for research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maysam Mansouri
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, CH-4058, Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, CH-4058, Switzerland; Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, CH-4058, Switzerland.
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19
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Lau HH, Gan SU, Lickert H, Shapiro AMJ, Lee KO, Teo AKK. Charting the next century of insulin replacement with cell and gene therapies. MED 2021; 2:1138-1162. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medj.2021.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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