1
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Hwang HG, Ye DY, Jung GY. Biosensor-guided discovery and engineering of metabolic enzymes. Biotechnol Adv 2023; 69:108251. [PMID: 37690614 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108251] [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] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
A variety of chemicals have been produced through metabolic engineering approaches, and enhancing biosynthesis performance can be achieved by using enzymes with high catalytic efficiency. Accordingly, a number of efforts have been made to discover enzymes in nature for various applications. In addition, enzyme engineering approaches have been attempted to suit specific industrial purposes. However, a significant challenge in enzyme discovery and engineering is the efficient screening of enzymes with the desired phenotype from extensive enzyme libraries. To overcome this bottleneck, genetically encoded biosensors have been developed to specifically detect target molecules produced by enzyme activity at the intracellular level. Especially, the biosensors facilitate high-throughput screening (HTS) of targeted enzymes, expanding enzyme discovery and engineering strategies with advances in systems and synthetic biology. This review examines biosensor-guided HTS systems and highlights studies that have utilized these tools to discover enzymes in diverse areas and engineer enzymes to enhance their properties, such as catalytic efficiency, specificity, and stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Gyu Hwang
- Institute of Environmental and Energy Technology, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-Ro, Nam-Gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae-Yeol Ye
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-Ro, Nam-Gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyoo Yeol Jung
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-Ro, Nam-Gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, Republic of Korea; School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-Ro, Nam-Gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, Republic of Korea.
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2
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Volk MJ, Tran VG, Tan SI, Mishra S, Fatma Z, Boob A, Li H, Xue P, Martin TA, Zhao H. Metabolic Engineering: Methodologies and Applications. Chem Rev 2022; 123:5521-5570. [PMID: 36584306 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Metabolic engineering aims to improve the production of economically valuable molecules through the genetic manipulation of microbial metabolism. While the discipline is a little over 30 years old, advancements in metabolic engineering have given way to industrial-level molecule production benefitting multiple industries such as chemical, agriculture, food, pharmaceutical, and energy industries. This review describes the design, build, test, and learn steps necessary for leading a successful metabolic engineering campaign. Moreover, we highlight major applications of metabolic engineering, including synthesizing chemicals and fuels, broadening substrate utilization, and improving host robustness with a focus on specific case studies. Finally, we conclude with a discussion on perspectives and future challenges related to metabolic engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Volk
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,DOE Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Vinh G Tran
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,DOE Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Shih-I Tan
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,DOE Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,Department of Chemical Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - Shekhar Mishra
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,DOE Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Zia Fatma
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,DOE Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Aashutosh Boob
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,DOE Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Hongxiang Li
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Pu Xue
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,DOE Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Teresa A Martin
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,DOE Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Huimin Zhao
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,DOE Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
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3
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Van Genechten W, Van Dijck P, Demuyser L. Fluorescent toys 'n' tools lighting the way in fungal research. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2021; 45:fuab013. [PMID: 33595628 PMCID: PMC8498796 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuab013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although largely overlooked compared to bacterial infections, fungal infections pose a significant threat to the health of humans and other organisms. Many pathogenic fungi, especially Candida species, are extremely versatile and flexible in adapting to various host niches and stressful situations. This leads to high pathogenicity and increasing resistance to existing drugs. Due to the high level of conservation between fungi and mammalian cells, it is hard to find fungus-specific drug targets for novel therapy development. In this respect, it is vital to understand how these fungi function on a molecular, cellular as well as organismal level. Fluorescence imaging allows for detailed analysis of molecular mechanisms, cellular structures and interactions on different levels. In this manuscript, we provide researchers with an elaborate and contemporary overview of fluorescence techniques that can be used to study fungal pathogens. We focus on the available fluorescent labelling techniques and guide our readers through the different relevant applications of fluorescent imaging, from subcellular events to multispecies interactions and diagnostics. As well as cautioning researchers for potential challenges and obstacles, we offer hands-on tips and tricks for efficient experimentation and share our expert-view on future developments and possible improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wouter Van Genechten
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Microbiology, Kasteelpark Arenberg 31, 3001 Leuven-heverlee, Belgium
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Botany and Microbiology, KU Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 31, 3001 Leuven-Heverlee, Belgium
- Laboratory for Nanobiology, Department of Chemistry, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200g, 3001 Leuven-Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Patrick Van Dijck
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Microbiology, Kasteelpark Arenberg 31, 3001 Leuven-heverlee, Belgium
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Botany and Microbiology, KU Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 31, 3001 Leuven-Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Liesbeth Demuyser
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Microbiology, Kasteelpark Arenberg 31, 3001 Leuven-heverlee, Belgium
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Botany and Microbiology, KU Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 31, 3001 Leuven-Heverlee, Belgium
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4
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Electrically guided interventional radiology, in-vivo electrochemical tracing of suspicious lesions to breast cancer prior to core needle biopsy. Biosens Bioelectron 2020; 161:112209. [PMID: 32442106 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2020.112209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
An electrochemical biopsy probe was designed and fabricated to detect cancer tumors under the sonography guide without the need for any sample dissection (biopsy). The system was based on recording the hypoxic function of cancer tumors by Multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) sensing agents had been decorated on the tip of the needle electrodes by an electrostatic deposition method. This system named BGP successfully distinct 4T1 and MC4L2 breast tumors from normal lesions. It also diagnosed the treated tumors from vital ones. BGP as a clinically useful biosensor would detect the cancerous probability of any suspicious breast mass without any sample excision. Also, it can present a profile from neoplastic states of different regions of a tumor. This ability would make ensure for the radiologist to do biopsy or not, especially in the cases which are suspicious between BIRADS III and IVa. This would not only shed new light in detecting breast cancer tumors without biopsy (applied in radiological BIRADS classifications) but also evaluate the therapeutic effects on cancer tumors after chemotherapy/radiotherapy therapies without complicated and expensive scanning.
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5
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Duan X, Chen Z, Tang S, Ge M, Wei H, Guan Y, Zhao G. A Strategy Employing a TF-Splinting Duplex Nanoswitch to Achieve Single-Step, Enzyme-Free, Signal-On Detection of l-Tryptophan. ACS Sens 2020; 5:837-844. [PMID: 32096406 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.0c00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Transcription factor (TF)-based metabolite detection mainly depends on TF-regulated gene expression in cells. From TF activation to gene transcription and translation, the signal travels a relatively long way before it is received. Here, we propose a TF-splinting duplex DNA nanoswitch to detect metabolites. We show its feasibility using tryptophan repressor (TrpR) to detect l-tryptophan as a model. The assay has been optimized and characterized after obtaining a proof of concept, and the detection of l-tryptophan in complex biological samples is feasible. Unlike an equivalent gene expression approach, the whole process is a single-step, enzyme-free, and signal-on method. It can be completed within 20 min. This proposed TF-splinting duplex has the potential to be applied to the quick and convenient detection of other metabolites or even TFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuying Duan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, China
| | - Ziwei Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, China
| | - Suming Tang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, China
| | - Meiqiong Ge
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, China
| | - Hua Wei
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, China
- Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine College, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110866, China
| | - Yifu Guan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, China
| | - Guojie Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, China
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6
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Skruzny M, Pohl E, Abella M. FRET Microscopy in Yeast. BIOSENSORS 2019; 9:E122. [PMID: 31614546 PMCID: PMC6956097 DOI: 10.3390/bios9040122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) microscopy is a powerful fluorescence microscopy method to study the nanoscale organization of multiprotein assemblies in vivo. Moreover, many biochemical and biophysical processes can be followed by employing sophisticated FRET biosensors directly in living cells. Here, we summarize existing FRET experiments and biosensors applied in yeasts Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Schizosaccharomyces pombe, two important models of fundamental biomedical research and efficient platforms for analyses of bioactive molecules. We aim to provide a practical guide on suitable FRET techniques, fluorescent proteins, and experimental setups available for successful FRET experiments in yeasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Skruzny
- Department of Systems and Synthetic Microbiology, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, 35043 Marburg, Germany.
- LOEWE Center for Synthetic Microbiology (SYNMIKRO), 35043 Marburg, Germany.
| | - Emma Pohl
- Department of Systems and Synthetic Microbiology, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, 35043 Marburg, Germany
- LOEWE Center for Synthetic Microbiology (SYNMIKRO), 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Marc Abella
- Department of Systems and Synthetic Microbiology, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, 35043 Marburg, Germany
- LOEWE Center for Synthetic Microbiology (SYNMIKRO), 35043 Marburg, Germany
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7
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Ding J, Zhao J, Pan T, Xi L, Zhang J, Zou Z. Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Gene Expression Patterns in Tomato Under Dynamic Light Conditions. Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:genes10090662. [PMID: 31470680 PMCID: PMC6770952 DOI: 10.3390/genes10090662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Plants grown under highly variable natural light regimes differ strongly from plants grown under constant light (CL) regimes. Plant phenotype and adaptation responses are important for plant biomass and fitness. However, the underlying regulatory mechanisms are still poorly understood, particularly from a transcriptional perspective. To investigate the influence of different light regimes on tomato plants, three dynamic light (DL) regimes were designed, using a CL regime as control. Morphological, photosynthetic, and transcriptional differences after five weeks of treatment were compared. Leaf area, plant height, shoot /root weight, total chlorophyll content, photosynthetic rate, and stomatal conductance all significantly decreased in response to DL regimes. The biggest expression difference was found between the treatment with the highest light intensity at the middle of the day with a total of 1080 significantly up-/down-regulated genes. A total of 177 common differentially expressed genes were identified between DL and CL conditions. Finally, significant differences were observed in the levels of gene expression between DL and CL treatments in multiple pathways, predominantly of plant–pathogen interactions, plant hormone signal transductions, metabolites, and photosynthesis. These results expand the understanding of plant development and photosynthetic regulations under DL conditions by multiple pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juanjuan Ding
- College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Jiantao Zhao
- INRA, UR1052, Génétique et Amélioration des Fruits et Légumes, Domaine Saint Maurice, 67 Allée des Chênes CS 60094, 84143 Montfavet, France
| | - Tonghua Pan
- College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Linjie Xi
- College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Zhirong Zou
- College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China.
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8
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FÖrster resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based biosensors for biological applications. Biosens Bioelectron 2019; 138:111314. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2019.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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9
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Abstract
With the rapid development of DNA synthesis and next-generation sequencing, synthetic biology that aims to standardize, modularize, and innovate cellular functions, has achieved vast progress. Here we review key advances in synthetic biology of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which serves as an important eukaryal model organism and widely applied cell factory. This covers the development of new building blocks, i.e., promoters, terminators and enzymes, pathway engineering, tools developments, and gene circuits utilization. We will also summarize impacts of synthetic biology on both basic and applied biology, and end with further directions for advancing synthetic biology in yeast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihe Liu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioprocess , Beijing University of Chemical Technology , Beijing 100029 , China
| | - Yueping Zhang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioprocess , Beijing University of Chemical Technology , Beijing 100029 , China
| | - Jens Nielsen
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioprocess , Beijing University of Chemical Technology , Beijing 100029 , China.,Department of Biology and Biological Engineering , Chalmers University of Technology , Gothenburg SE41296 , Sweden.,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability , Technical University of Denmark , Kongens Lyngby DK2800 , Denmark
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10
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Caron K, Trowell SC. Highly Sensitive and Selective Biosensor for a Disaccharide Based on an AraC-Like Transcriptional Regulator Transduced with Bioluminescence Resonance Energy Transfer. Anal Chem 2018; 90:12986-12993. [PMID: 30234965 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.8b03689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Sensitive and selective quantification of individual sugars in complex media is technically challenging and usually requires HPLC separation. Accurate measurement without the need for separation would be highly desirable. The measurement of trace levels of lactose in lactose-reduced milk exemplifies the problem, with the added challenge that trace lactose must be measured in the presence of ≈140 mM glucose and galactose, the products of lactase digestion of lactose. Biosensing is an alternative to HPLC, but current biosensing methods, based on coupled-enzyme assays, tend to have poor sensitivity and complex biochemistry and can be time-consuming. We explored a fundamentally different approach, based on identifying a lactose-specific binding protein compatible with photonic transduction. We identified the BgaR transcriptional regulator of Clostridium perfringens, which is highly selective for lactose, as a suitable ligand binding domain and combined it with a bioluminescence energy resonance transfer transduction system. This BRET-based biosensor showed a 27% decrease in the BRET ratio in the presence of saturating (1 mM) lactose. Using a 5 min assay, the half maximal effective concentration (EC50) for lactose in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) was 12 μM. The biosensor was 200 times more sensitive to lactose than to glucose or galactose. Sensitivity and selectivity were not significantly affected by the presence of 10% (v/v) dialyzed milk. The biosensor is suitable for direct determination of residual lactose in lactase-treated milk, with a limit of detection of 0.2 μM, 100 times below the most stringent lactose-free standard and without the need to remove fat or protein from the sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karine Caron
- CSIRO Health and Biosecurity , Canberra , Australian Capital Territory , 2601 , Australia
| | - Stephen C Trowell
- CSIRO Health and Biosecurity , Canberra , Australian Capital Territory , 2601 , Australia
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11
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Metabolic heterogeneity in clonal microbial populations. Curr Opin Microbiol 2018; 45:30-38. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2018.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2018] [Revised: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 02/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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12
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In vivo biosensors: mechanisms, development, and applications. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 45:491-516. [DOI: 10.1007/s10295-018-2004-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
In vivo biosensors can recognize and respond to specific cellular stimuli. In recent years, biosensors have been increasingly used in metabolic engineering and synthetic biology, because they can be implemented in synthetic circuits to control the expression of reporter genes in response to specific cellular stimuli, such as a certain metabolite or a change in pH. There are many types of natural sensing devices, which can be generally divided into two main categories: protein-based and nucleic acid-based. Both can be obtained either by directly mining from natural genetic components or by engineering the existing genetic components for novel specificity or improved characteristics. A wide range of new technologies have enabled rapid engineering and discovery of new biosensors, which are paving the way for a new era of biotechnological progress. Here, we review recent advances in the design, optimization, and applications of in vivo biosensors in the field of metabolic engineering and synthetic biology.
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13
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Zhang Z, Milias-Argeitis A, Heinemann M. Dynamic single-cell NAD(P)H measurement reveals oscillatory metabolism throughout the E. coli cell division cycle. Sci Rep 2018; 8:2162. [PMID: 29391569 PMCID: PMC5795003 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-20550-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2017] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent work has shown that metabolism between individual bacterial cells in an otherwise isogenetic population can be different. To investigate such heterogeneity, experimental methods to zoom into the metabolism of individual cells are required. To this end, the autofluoresence of the redox cofactors NADH and NADPH offers great potential for single-cell dynamic NAD(P)H measurements. However, NAD(P)H excitation requires UV light, which can cause cell damage. In this work, we developed a method for time-lapse NAD(P)H imaging in single E. coli cells. Our method combines a setup with reduced background emission, UV-enhanced microscopy equipment and optimized exposure settings, overall generating acceptable NAD(P)H signals from single cells, with minimal negative effect on cell growth. Through different experiments, in which we perturb E. coli's redox metabolism, we demonstrated that the acquired fluorescence signal indeed corresponds to NAD(P)H. Using this new method, for the first time, we report that intracellular NAD(P)H levels oscillate along the bacterial cell division cycle. The developed method for dynamic measurement of NAD(P)H in single bacterial cells will be an important tool to zoom into metabolism of individual cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Zhang
- Molecular Systems Biology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Andreas Milias-Argeitis
- Molecular Systems Biology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Matthias Heinemann
- Molecular Systems Biology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, Netherlands.
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14
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Liu Y, Liu Y, Wang M. Design, Optimization and Application of Small Molecule Biosensor in Metabolic Engineering. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:2012. [PMID: 29089935 PMCID: PMC5651080 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.02012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 09/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of synthetic biology and metabolic engineering has painted a great future for the bio-based economy, including fuels, chemicals, and drugs produced from renewable feedstocks. With the rapid advance of genome-scale modeling, pathway assembling and genome engineering/editing, our ability to design and generate microbial cell factories with various phenotype becomes almost limitless. However, our lack of ability to measure and exert precise control over metabolite concentration related phenotypes becomes a bottleneck in metabolic engineering. Genetically encoded small molecule biosensors, which provide the means to couple metabolite concentration to measurable or actionable outputs, are highly promising solutions to the bottleneck. Here we review recent advances in the design, optimization and application of small molecule biosensor in metabolic engineering, with particular focus on optimization strategies for transcription factor (TF) based biosensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
| | - Ye Liu
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
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15
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Okumoto S, Versaw W. Genetically encoded sensors for monitoring the transport and concentration of nitrogen-containing and phosphorus-containing molecules in plants. CURRENT OPINION IN PLANT BIOLOGY 2017; 39:129-135. [PMID: 28750256 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbi.2017.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Revised: 07/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Nitrogen and phosphorus are macronutrients indispensable for plant growth. The acquisition and reallocation of both elements require a multitude of dedicated transporters that specifically recognize inorganic and organic forms of nitrogen and phosphorous. Although many transporters have been discovered through elegant screening processes and sequence homology, many remain uncharacterized for their functions in planta. Genetically encoded sensors for nitrogen and phosphorous molecules offer a unique opportunity for studying transport mechanisms that were previously inaccessible. In the past few years, sensors for some of the key nitrogen molecules became available, and many improvements have been made for existing sensors for phosphorus molecules. Methodologies for detailed in vivo analysis also improved. We summarize the recent improvements in genetically encoded sensors for nitrogen and phosphorus molecules, and the discoveries made by using such sensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakiko Okumoto
- Department of Soil and Crop Sciences, Texas A&M University, HEEP Center, College Station, TX 77843 USA.
| | - Wayne Versaw
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, Biological Sciences Building East, College Station, TX 77843 USA
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16
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Papagiannakis A, de Jonge JJ, Zhang Z, Heinemann M. Quantitative characterization of the auxin-inducible degron: a guide for dynamic protein depletion in single yeast cells. Sci Rep 2017; 7:4704. [PMID: 28680098 PMCID: PMC5498663 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-04791-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Perturbations are essential for the interrogation of biological systems. The auxin-inducible degron harbors great potential for dynamic protein depletion in yeast. Here, we thoroughly and quantitatively characterize the auxin-inducible degron in single yeast cells. We show that an auxin concentration of 0.25 mM is necessary for fast and uniform protein depletion between single cells, and that in mother cells proteins are depleted faster than their daughters. Although, protein recovery starts immediately after removal of auxin, it takes multiple generations before equilibrium is reached between protein synthesis and dilution, which is when the original protein levels are restored. Further, we found that blue light, used for GFP excitation, together with auxin results in growth defects, caused by the photo-destruction of auxin to its toxic derivatives, which can be avoided if indole-free auxin substitutes are used. Our work provides guidelines for the successful combination of microscopy, microfluidics and the auxin-inducible degron, offering the yeast community an unprecedented tool for dynamic perturbations on the single cell level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros Papagiannakis
- Molecular Systems Biology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Janeska J de Jonge
- Molecular Systems Biology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Zheng Zhang
- Molecular Systems Biology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Matthias Heinemann
- Molecular Systems Biology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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17
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Mehrotra P. Biosensors and their applications - A review. J Oral Biol Craniofac Res 2016; 6:153-9. [PMID: 27195214 PMCID: PMC4862100 DOI: 10.1016/j.jobcr.2015.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 507] [Impact Index Per Article: 63.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 12/05/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The various types of biosensors such as enzyme-based, tissue-based, immunosensors, DNA biosensors, thermal and piezoelectric biosensors have been deliberated here to highlight their indispensable applications in multitudinous fields. Some of the popular fields implementing the use of biosensors are food industry to keep a check on its quality and safety, to help distinguish between the natural and artificial; in the fermentation industry and in the saccharification process to detect precise glucose concentrations; in metabolic engineering to enable in vivo monitoring of cellular metabolism. Biosensors and their role in medical science including early stage detection of human interleukin-10 causing heart diseases, rapid detection of human papilloma virus, etc. are important aspects. Fluorescent biosensors play a vital role in drug discovery and in cancer. Biosensor applications are prevalent in the plant biology sector to find out the missing links required in metabolic processes. Other applications are involved in defence, clinical sector, and for marine applications.
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18
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Rogers JK, Taylor ND, Church GM. Biosensor-based engineering of biosynthetic pathways. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2016; 42:84-91. [PMID: 26998575 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2016.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Revised: 02/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Biosynthetic pathways provide an enzymatic route from inexpensive renewable resources to valuable metabolic products such as pharmaceuticals and plastics. Designing these pathways is challenging due to the complexities of biology. Advances in the design and construction of genetic variants has enabled billions of cells, each possessing a slightly different metabolic design, to be rapidly generated. However, our ability to measure the quality of these designs lags by several orders of magnitude. Recent research has enabled cells to report their own success in chemical production through the use of genetically encoded biosensors. A new engineering discipline is emerging around the creation and application of biosensors. Biosensors, implemented in selections and screens to identify productive cells, are paving the way for a new era of biotechnological progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jameson K Rogers
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering Harvard University, 3 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Noah D Taylor
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering Harvard University, 3 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - George M Church
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering Harvard University, 3 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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19
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Uslu VV, Grossmann G. The biosensor toolbox for plant developmental biology. CURRENT OPINION IN PLANT BIOLOGY 2016; 29:138-47. [PMID: 26802805 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbi.2015.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2015] [Revised: 12/01/2015] [Accepted: 12/02/2015] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Plant development is highly interconnected with the metabolic state of tissues and cells. Current research efforts focus on the identification of the links and mechanisms that govern the interplay between metabolic and gene-regulatory networks. Genetically encoded sensors that allow detection of small molecules in vivo and at high spatio-temporal resolution promise to be the tools of choice for quantifying and visualizing the dynamics of metabolite flux in plants. We provide an overview about current approaches to measure signaling molecules, such as hormones, calcium and sugars, as well as for monitoring the metabolic state via energy equivalents and pH. Biosensors show great potential to address questions of plant development but there are also limitations where alternative approaches are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veli V Uslu
- Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg, Department of Plant Molecular Biology, Centre for Organismal Studies, Im Neuenheimer Feld 360, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Guido Grossmann
- Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg, CellNetworks Excellence Cluster and Centre for Organismal Studies, Im Neuenheimer Feld 329, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
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20
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Development of biosensors and their application in metabolic engineering. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2015; 28:1-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2015.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2015] [Revised: 05/04/2015] [Accepted: 05/14/2015] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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21
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Liu D, Evans T, Zhang F. Applications and advances of metabolite biosensors for metabolic engineering. Metab Eng 2015; 31:35-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ymben.2015.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2015] [Revised: 06/23/2015] [Accepted: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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