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Powers J, Jang Y. Advancing Biomimetic Functions of Synthetic Cells through Compartmentalized Cell-Free Protein Synthesis. Biomacromolecules 2023; 24:5539-5550. [PMID: 37962115 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.3c00879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic cells are artificial constructs that mimic the structures and functions of living cells. They are attractive for studying diverse biochemical processes and elucidating the origins of life. While creating a living synthetic cell remains a grand challenge, researchers have successfully synthesized hundreds of unique synthetic cell platforms. One promising approach to developing more sophisticated synthetic cells is to integrate cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS) mechanisms into vesicle platforms. This makes it possible to create synthetic cells with complex biomimetic functions such as genetic circuits, autonomous membrane modifications, sensing and communication, and artificial organelles. This Review explores recent advances in the use of CFPS to impart advanced biomimetic structures and functions to bottom-up synthetic cell platforms. We also discuss the potential applications of synthetic cells in biomedicine as well as the future directions of synthetic cell research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jackson Powers
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Florida, 1006 Center Drive, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
| | - Yeongseon Jang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Florida, 1006 Center Drive, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
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2
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Nam H, Kim T, Moon S, Ji Y, Lee JB. Self-assembly of a multimeric genomic hydrogel via multi-primed chain reaction of dual single-stranded circular plasmids for cell-free protein production. iScience 2023; 26:107089. [PMID: 37416467 PMCID: PMC10319821 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107089] [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: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent technical advances in cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS) offer several advantages over cell-based expression systems, including the application of cellular machinery, such as transcription and translation, in the test tube. Inspired by the advantages of CFPS, we have fabricated a multimeric genomic DNA hydrogel (mGD-gel) via rolling circle chain amplification (RCCA) using dual single-stranded circular plasmids with multiple primers. The mGD-gel exhibited significantly enhanced protein yield. In addition, mGD-gel can be reused at least five times, and the shape of the mGD-gel can be easily manipulated without losing the feasibility of protein expression. The mGD-gel platform based on the self-assembly of multimeric genomic DNA strands (mGD strands) has the potential to be used in CFPS systems for a variety of biotechnological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyangsu Nam
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdaero, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea
| | - Taehyeon Kim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdaero, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunghyun Moon
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdaero, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoonbin Ji
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdaero, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Bum Lee
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdaero, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea
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3
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Wu H, Zheng B. Hydrogel-Based Multi-enzymatic System for Biosynthesis. ADVANCES IN BIOCHEMICAL ENGINEERING/BIOTECHNOLOGY 2023; 186:51-76. [PMID: 37306702 DOI: 10.1007/10_2023_220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Biosynthesis involving multi-enzymatic reactions is usually an efficient and economic method to produce plentiful important molecules. To increase the product yield in biosynthesis, the involved enzymes can be immobilized to carriers for enhancing enzyme stability, increasing synthesis efficiency and improving enzyme recyclability. Hydrogels with three-dimensional porous structures and versatile functional groups are promising carriers for enzyme immobilization. Herein, we review the recent advances of the hydrogel-based multi-enzymatic system for biosynthesis. First, we introduce the strategies of enzyme immobilization in hydrogel, including the pros and cons of the strategies. Then we overview the recent applications of the multi-enzymatic system for biosynthesis, including cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS) and non-protein synthesis, especially high value-added molecules. In the last section, we discuss the future perspective of the hydrogel-based multi-enzymatic system for biosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Wu
- Institute for Cell Analysis, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Bo Zheng
- Institute for Cell Analysis, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
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Choi YN, Cho N, Lee K, Gwon DA, Lee JW, Lee J. Programmable Synthesis of Biobased Materials Using Cell-Free Systems. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2203433. [PMID: 36108274 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202203433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Motivated by the intricate mechanisms underlying biomolecule syntheses in cells that chemistry is currently unable to mimic, researchers have harnessed biological systems for manufacturing novel materials. Cell-free systems (CFSs) utilizing the bioactivity of transcriptional and translational machineries in vitro are excellent tools that allow supplementation of exogenous materials for production of innovative materials beyond the capability of natural biological systems. Herein, recent studies that have advanced the ability to expand the scope of biobased materials using CFS are summarized and approaches enabling the production of high-value materials, prototyping of genetic parts and modules, and biofunctionalization are discussed. By extending the reach of chemical and enzymatic reactions complementary to cellular materials, CFSs provide new opportunities at the interface of materials science and synthetic biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Nam Choi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Namjin Cho
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Kanghun Lee
- School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering (I-Bio), Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Da-Ae Gwon
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Wook Lee
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
- School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering (I-Bio), Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Joongoo Lee
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
- School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering (I-Bio), Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
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5
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Sánchez-Costa M, López-Gallego F. Solid-Phase Cell-Free Protein Synthesis and Its Applications in Biotechnology. ADVANCES IN BIOCHEMICAL ENGINEERING/BIOTECHNOLOGY 2023; 185:21-46. [PMID: 37306703 DOI: 10.1007/10_2023_226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Cell-free systems for the in vitro production of proteins have revolutionized the synthetic biology field. In the last decade, this technology is gaining momentum in molecular biology, biotechnology, biomedicine and even education. Materials science has burst into the field of in vitro protein synthesis to empower the value of existing tools and expand its applications. In this sense, the combination of solid materials (normally functionalized with different biomacromolecules) together with cell-free components has made this technology more versatile and robust. In this chapter, we discuss the combination of solid materials with DNA and transcription-translation machinery to synthesize proteins within compartments, to immobilize and purify in situ the nascent protein, to transcribe and transduce DNAs immobilized on solid surfaces, and the combination of all or some of these strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Sánchez-Costa
- Heterogeneous Biocatalysis Laboratory, Center for Cooperative Research in Biomaterials (CIC biomaGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Fernando López-Gallego
- Heterogeneous Biocatalysis Laboratory, Center for Cooperative Research in Biomaterials (CIC biomaGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain.
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Gonzales DT, Suraritdechachai S, Tang TYD. Compartmentalized Cell-Free Expression Systems for Building Synthetic Cells. ADVANCES IN BIOCHEMICAL ENGINEERING/BIOTECHNOLOGY 2023; 186:77-101. [PMID: 37306700 DOI: 10.1007/10_2023_221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
One of the grand challenges in bottom-up synthetic biology is the design and construction of synthetic cellular systems. One strategy toward this goal is the systematic reconstitution of biological processes using purified or non-living molecular components to recreate specific cellular functions such as metabolism, intercellular communication, signal transduction, and growth and division. Cell-free expression systems (CFES) are in vitro reconstitutions of the transcription and translation machinery found in cells and are a key technology for bottom-up synthetic biology. The open and simplified reaction environment of CFES has helped researchers discover fundamental concepts in the molecular biology of the cell. In recent decades, there has been a drive to encapsulate CFES reactions into cell-like compartments with the aim of building synthetic cells and multicellular systems. In this chapter, we discuss recent progress in compartmentalizing CFES to build simple and minimal models of biological processes that can help provide a better understanding of the process of self-assembly in molecularly complex systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- David T Gonzales
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany
- Center for Systems Biology Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | | | - T -Y Dora Tang
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany.
- Center for Systems Biology Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
- Physics of Life, Cluster of Excellence, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
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Abstract
Recent years have seen substantial efforts aimed at constructing artificial cells from various molecular components with the aim of mimicking the processes, behaviours and architectures found in biological systems. Artificial cell development ultimately aims to produce model constructs that progress our understanding of biology, as well as forming the basis for functional bio-inspired devices that can be used in fields such as therapeutic delivery, biosensing, cell therapy and bioremediation. Typically, artificial cells rely on a bilayer membrane chassis and have fluid aqueous interiors to mimic biological cells. However, a desire to more accurately replicate the gel-like properties of intracellular and extracellular biological environments has driven increasing efforts to build cell mimics based on hydrogels. This has enabled researchers to exploit some of the unique functional properties of hydrogels that have seen them deployed in fields such as tissue engineering, biomaterials and drug delivery. In this Review, we explore how hydrogels can be leveraged in the context of artificial cell development. We also discuss how hydrogels can potentially be incorporated within the next generation of artificial cells to engineer improved biological mimics and functional microsystems.
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Hu P, Dong Y, Yao C, Yang D. Construction of branched DNA-based nanostructures for diagnosis, therapeutics and protein engineering. Chem Asian J 2022; 17:e202200310. [PMID: 35468254 DOI: 10.1002/asia.202200310] [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: 03/26/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Branched DNA with multibranch-like anisotropic topology serves as a promising and powerful building block in constructing multifunctional-integrated nanomaterials in a programmable and controllable manner. Recently, a series of branched DNA-based functional nanomaterials were developed by elaborate molecular design. In this review, we focused on the construction of branched DNA-based nanostructures for biological and biomedical applications. First, the molecular design and synthesis method of branched DNA monomer were briefly described. Then, the construction strategies of branched DNA-based nanostructures were categorially discussed, including target-triggered polymerization, enzymatic extension and hybrid assembly. Finally, the biological and biomedical applications including diagnosis, therapeutics and protein engineering were summarized. We envision that the review will contribute to the further development of branched DNA-based nanomaterials with great application potential in the field of biomedicine, thus building a new bridge between material chemistry and biomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pin Hu
- Tianjin University, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, CHINA
| | - Yuhang Dong
- Tianjin University, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, CHINA
| | - Chi Yao
- Tianjin University, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, CHINA
| | - Dayong Yang
- Tianjin University, Chemistry Department, Room 328, Building 54, 300350, Tianjin, CHINA
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10
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Zhang Y, Zhu L, Tian J, Zhu L, Ma X, He X, Huang K, Ren F, Xu W. Smart and Functionalized Development of Nucleic Acid-Based Hydrogels: Assembly Strategies, Recent Advances, and Challenges. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:2100216. [PMID: 34306976 PMCID: PMC8292884 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202100216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Nucleic acid-based hydrogels that integrate intrinsic biological properties of nucleic acids and mechanical behavior of their advanced assemblies are appealing bioanalysis and biomedical studies for the development of new-generation smart biomaterials. It is inseparable from development and incorporation of novel structural and functional units. This review highlights different functional units of nucleic acids, polymers, and novel nanomaterials in the order of structures, properties, and functions, and their assembly strategies for the fabrication of nucleic acid-based hydrogels. Also, recent advances in the design of multifunctional and stimuli-responsive nucleic acid-based hydrogels in bioanalysis and biomedical science are discussed, focusing on the applications of customized hydrogels for emerging directions, including 3D cell cultivation and 3D bioprinting. Finally, the key challenge and future perspectives are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangzi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food QualityDepartment of Nutrition and HealthChina Agricultural UniversityNo. 17, Qinghua East RoadBeijing100083China
| | - Longjiao Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food QualityDepartment of Nutrition and HealthChina Agricultural UniversityNo. 17, Qinghua East RoadBeijing100083China
| | - Jingjing Tian
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food QualityDepartment of Nutrition and HealthChina Agricultural UniversityNo. 17, Qinghua East RoadBeijing100083China
| | - Liye Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food QualityDepartment of Nutrition and HealthChina Agricultural UniversityNo. 17, Qinghua East RoadBeijing100083China
| | - Xuan Ma
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food QualityDepartment of Nutrition and HealthChina Agricultural UniversityNo. 17, Qinghua East RoadBeijing100083China
| | - Xiaoyun He
- Key Laboratory of Safety Assessment of Genetically Modified Organism (Food Safety) (MOA)College of Food Science and Nutritional EngineeringChina Agricultural UniversityNo. 17, Qinghua East RoadBeijing100083China
| | - Kunlun Huang
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food QualityDepartment of Nutrition and HealthChina Agricultural UniversityNo. 17, Qinghua East RoadBeijing100083China
- Key Laboratory of Safety Assessment of Genetically Modified Organism (Food Safety) (MOA)College of Food Science and Nutritional EngineeringChina Agricultural UniversityNo. 17, Qinghua East RoadBeijing100083China
- Beijing Laboratory for Food Quality and SafetyCollege of Food Science and Nutritional EngineeringChina Agricultural UniversityNo. 17, Qinghua East RoadBeijing100083China
| | - Fazheng Ren
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food QualityDepartment of Nutrition and HealthChina Agricultural UniversityNo. 17, Qinghua East RoadBeijing100083China
| | - Wentao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food QualityDepartment of Nutrition and HealthChina Agricultural UniversityNo. 17, Qinghua East RoadBeijing100083China
- Key Laboratory of Safety Assessment of Genetically Modified Organism (Food Safety) (MOA)College of Food Science and Nutritional EngineeringChina Agricultural UniversityNo. 17, Qinghua East RoadBeijing100083China
- Beijing Laboratory for Food Quality and SafetyCollege of Food Science and Nutritional EngineeringChina Agricultural UniversityNo. 17, Qinghua East RoadBeijing100083China
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Singhal V, Tuza ZA, Sun ZZ, Murray RM. A MATLAB toolbox for modeling genetic circuits in cell-free systems. Synth Biol (Oxf) 2021; 6:ysab007. [PMID: 33981862 PMCID: PMC8102020 DOI: 10.1093/synbio/ysab007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
We introduce a MATLAB-based simulation toolbox, called txtlsim, for an Escherichia coli-based Transcription-Translation (TX-TL) system. This toolbox accounts for several cell-free-related phenomena, such as resource loading, consumption and degradation, and in doing so, models the dynamics of TX-TL reactions for the entire duration of solution phase batch-mode experiments. We use a Bayesian parameter inference approach to characterize the reaction rate parameters associated with the core transcription, translation and mRNA degradation mechanics of the toolbox, allowing it to reproduce constitutive mRNA and protein-expression trajectories. We demonstrate the use of this characterized toolbox in a circuit behavior prediction case study for an incoherent feed-forward loop.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vipul Singhal
- Spatial and Single Cell Systems Domain, Genome Institute of Singapore, 60 Biopolis St, 138672, Singapore
| | - Zoltan A Tuza
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Rd, South Kensington, SW7 2BU, London, UK
| | - Zachary Z Sun
- Tierra Bioscienes, 1933 Davis St #223, 94577, CA, USA
| | - Richard M Murray
- Control and Dynamical Systems and Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, 1200 E California Blvd, 91125, CA, USA
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Sung B, Kim M, Abelmann L. Magnetic microgels and nanogels: Physical mechanisms and biomedical applications. Bioeng Transl Med 2021; 6:e10190. [PMID: 33532590 PMCID: PMC7823133 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Soft micro- and nanostructures have been extensively developed for biomedical applications. The main focus has been on multifunctional composite materials that combine the advantages of hydrogels and colloidal particles. Magnetic microgels and nanogels can be realized by hybridizing stimuli-sensitive gels and magnetic nanoparticles. They are of particular interest since they can be controlled in a wide range of biological environments by using magnetic fields. In this review, we elucidate physical principles underlying the design of magnetic microgels and nanogels for biomedical applications. Particularly, this article provides a comprehensive and conceptual overview on the correlative structural design and physical functionality of the magnetic gel systems under the concept of colloidal biodevices. To this end, we begin with an overview of physicochemical mechanisms related to stimuli-responsive hydrogels and transport phenomena and summarize the magnetic properties of inorganic nanoparticles. On the basis of the engineering principles, we categorize and summarize recent advances in magnetic hybrid microgels and nanogels, with emphasis on the biomedical applications of these materials. Potential applications of these hybrid microgels and nanogels in anticancer treatment, protein therapeutics, gene therapy, bioseparation, biocatalysis, and regenerative medicine are highlighted. Finally, current challenges and future opportunities in the design of smart colloidal biodevices are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baeckkyoung Sung
- KIST Europe Forschungsgesellschaft mbHSaarbrückenGermany
- Department of Biological SciencesKent State UniversityKentOhioUSA
- Division of Energy and Environment TechnologyUniversity of Science and TechnologyDaejeonRepublic of Korea
| | - Min‐Ho Kim
- Department of Biological SciencesKent State UniversityKentOhioUSA
| | - Leon Abelmann
- KIST Europe Forschungsgesellschaft mbHSaarbrückenGermany
- MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, University of TwenteEnschedeThe Netherlands
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Wang C, Geng Y, Sun Q, Xu J, Lu Y. A Sustainable and Efficient Artificial Microgel System: Toward Creating a Configurable Synthetic Cell. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2020; 16:e2002313. [PMID: 33241606 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202002313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Artificial cells are a powerful platform in the study of synthetic biology and other valuable fields. They share a great potential in defining and utilizing the superiority of the living system. Here, a protein synthesis system based on thermal responsive hydrogels with porous structure is reported. The hydrogels can immobilize plasmids on the surface inside their porous structure through a volume phase transition upon 34 °C, forming an aggregation state of DNAs as in nature conditions. The artificial microgels can carry out bioreactions in cell-free systems and exhibit a sustainable and efficient performance for protein translation. The protein synthesis level reaches a maximum of twice more than that in a conventional solution system when the plasmid concentration is 10-20 ng µL-1 , along with a doubled effective interval. This is perhaps attributed to confined transcription and translation processes in the near-surface area of hydrogels. Summarily, the research provides an easy-handling approach in fabricating effective microgels for cell-free synthesis and also inspirations for constructing a configurable artificial cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuhao Geng
- The State Key Lab of Chemical Engineering, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Sun
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Jianhong Xu
- The State Key Lab of Chemical Engineering, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Lu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
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Benítez-Mateos AI, Zeballos N, Comino N, Moreno de Redrojo L, Randelovic T, López-Gallego F. Microcompartmentalized Cell-Free Protein Synthesis in Hydrogel μ-Channels. ACS Synth Biol 2020; 9:2971-2978. [PMID: 33170665 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.0c00462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The rapid demand for protein-based molecules has stimulated much research on cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS); however, there are still many challenges in terms of cost-efficiency, process intensification, and sustainability. Herein, we describe the microcompartmentalization of CFPS of superfolded green fluorescent protein (sGFP) in alginate hydrogels, which were casted into a μ-channel device. CFPS was optimized for the microcompartmentalized environment and characterized in terms of synthesis yield. To extend the scope of this technology, the use of other biocompatible materials (collagen, laponite, and agarose) was explored. In addition, the diffusion of sGFP from the hydrogel microenvironment to the bulk was demonstrated, opening a promising opportunity for concurrent synthesis and delivery of proteins. Finally, we provide an application for this system: the CFPS of enzymes. The present design of the hydrogel μ-channel device may enhance the potential application of microcompartmentalized CFPS in biosensing, bioprototyping, and therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana I. Benítez-Mateos
- Heterogeneous Biocatalysis Laboratory, CICbiomaGUNE, Paseo Miramón 182. Edificio empresarial “C”, 20014 San Sebastián, Spain
- Heterogeneous Biocatalysis Laboratory, Instituto de Síntesis Química y Catálisis Homogénea (iSQCH), CSIC-Universidad de Zaragoza, C/Pedro Cerbuna 12, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Bern, Freiestrasse 3, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Nicoll Zeballos
- Heterogeneous Biocatalysis Laboratory, CICbiomaGUNE, Paseo Miramón 182. Edificio empresarial “C”, 20014 San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Natalia Comino
- Heterogeneous Biocatalysis Laboratory, CICbiomaGUNE, Paseo Miramón 182. Edificio empresarial “C”, 20014 San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Lucía Moreno de Redrojo
- Heterogeneous Biocatalysis Laboratory, Instituto de Síntesis Química y Catálisis Homogénea (iSQCH), CSIC-Universidad de Zaragoza, C/Pedro Cerbuna 12, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Teodora Randelovic
- Tissue MicroEnvironment (TME) Lab, Institute for Health Research Aragón (IISA), Avda. San Juan Bosco 13, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Aragon Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, Mariano Escuillor s/n, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Fernando López-Gallego
- Heterogeneous Biocatalysis Laboratory, CICbiomaGUNE, Paseo Miramón 182. Edificio empresarial “C”, 20014 San Sebastián, Spain
- Heterogeneous Biocatalysis Laboratory, Instituto de Síntesis Química y Catálisis Homogénea (iSQCH), CSIC-Universidad de Zaragoza, C/Pedro Cerbuna 12, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
- ARAID, Aragon Foundation for Science, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
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15
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Morya V, Walia S, Mandal BB, Ghoroi C, Bhatia D. Functional DNA Based Hydrogels: Development, Properties and Biological Applications. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2020; 6:6021-6035. [DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.0c01125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vinod Morya
- Biological Engineering Discipline, Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar, Palaj, Gujarat 382355, India
| | - Shanka Walia
- Biological Engineering Discipline, Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar, Palaj, Gujarat 382355, India
| | - Biman B Mandal
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam India
| | - Chinmay Ghoroi
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar, Palaj, Gujarat 382355, India
- Chemical Engineering Discipline, Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar, Palaj, Gujarat 382355, India
| | - Dhiraj Bhatia
- Biological Engineering Discipline, Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar, Palaj, Gujarat 382355, India
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar, Palaj, Gujarat 382355, India
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16
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Dong Y, Yao C, Zhu Y, Yang L, Luo D, Yang D. DNA Functional Materials Assembled from Branched DNA: Design, Synthesis, and Applications. Chem Rev 2020; 120:9420-9481. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.0c00294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yuhang Dong
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, P. R. China
| | - Chi Yao
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, P. R. China
| | - Yi Zhu
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, P. R. China
| | - Lu Yang
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, P. R. China
| | - Dan Luo
- Department of Biological & Environmental Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| | - Dayong Yang
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, P. R. China
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17
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Kelwick RJR, Webb AJ, Freemont PS. Biological Materials: The Next Frontier for Cell-Free Synthetic Biology. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:399. [PMID: 32478045 PMCID: PMC7235315 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Advancements in cell-free synthetic biology are enabling innovations in sustainable biomanufacturing, that may ultimately shift the global manufacturing paradigm toward localized and ecologically harmonized production processes. Cell-free synthetic biology strategies have been developed for the bioproduction of fine chemicals, biofuels and biological materials. Cell-free workflows typically utilize combinations of purified enzymes, cell extracts for biotransformation or cell-free protein synthesis reactions, to assemble and characterize biosynthetic pathways. Importantly, cell-free reactions can combine the advantages of chemical engineering with metabolic engineering, through the direct addition of co-factors, substrates and chemicals -including those that are cytotoxic. Cell-free synthetic biology is also amenable to automatable design cycles through which an array of biological materials and their underpinning biosynthetic pathways can be tested and optimized in parallel. Whilst challenges still remain, recent convergences between the materials sciences and these advancements in cell-free synthetic biology enable new frontiers for materials research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J. R. Kelwick
- Section of Structural and Synthetic Biology, Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander J. Webb
- Section of Structural and Synthetic Biology, Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul S. Freemont
- Section of Structural and Synthetic Biology, Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- The London Biofoundry, Imperial College Translation & Innovation Hub, London, United Kingdom
- UK Dementia Research Institute Care Research and Technology Centre, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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18
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Guo X, Zhu Y, Bai L, Yang D. The Protection Role of Magnesium Ions on Coupled Transcription and Translation in Lyophilized Cell-Free System. ACS Synth Biol 2020; 9:856-863. [PMID: 32216368 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.9b00508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS) is a promising platform for protein engineering and synthetic biology. The storage of a CFPS system usually involves lyophilization, during which preventing the conformational damage of involved enzymes is critical to the activity. Herein, we report the protection role of magnesium ions on coupled transcription and translation in a lyophilized cell-free system. Mg2+ prevents the inactivation of the CFPS system from direct colyophilization of enzymes and substrates (nucleotides, and amino acids), and furthermore activates the CFPS system. We propose two-metal-ion regulation of Mg2+: Mg2+ (I) acts as an allosteric role for enzymes to prevent the conformational damage of enzymes from direct binding with substrates during lyophilization which locks up inactive enzyme-substrate complex; Mg2+ (II) consequently binds to enzymes to activate the CFPS system. Our work provides important implications for maximizing protein yields by using a cell-free system in protein engineering and understanding the functions of Mg2+ in biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaocui Guo
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, P. R. China
| | - Yi Zhu
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, P. R. China
| | - Lihui Bai
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, P. R. China
| | - Dayong Yang
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, P. R. China
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19
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Laohakunakorn N, Grasemann L, Lavickova B, Michielin G, Shahein A, Swank Z, Maerkl SJ. Bottom-Up Construction of Complex Biomolecular Systems With Cell-Free Synthetic Biology. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:213. [PMID: 32266240 PMCID: PMC7105575 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell-free systems offer a promising approach to engineer biology since their open nature allows for well-controlled and characterized reaction conditions. In this review, we discuss the history and recent developments in engineering recombinant and crude extract systems, as well as breakthroughs in enabling technologies, that have facilitated increased throughput, compartmentalization, and spatial control of cell-free protein synthesis reactions. Combined with a deeper understanding of the cell-free systems themselves, these advances improve our ability to address a range of scientific questions. By mastering control of the cell-free platform, we will be in a position to construct increasingly complex biomolecular systems, and approach natural biological complexity in a bottom-up manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadanai Laohakunakorn
- School of Biological Sciences, Institute of Quantitative Biology, Biochemistry, and Biotechnology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Grasemann
- School of Engineering, Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Barbora Lavickova
- School of Engineering, Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Grégoire Michielin
- School of Engineering, Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Amir Shahein
- School of Engineering, Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Zoe Swank
- School of Engineering, Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sebastian J. Maerkl
- School of Engineering, Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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20
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Prangemeier T, Lehr FX, Schoeman RM, Koeppl H. Microfluidic platforms for the dynamic characterisation of synthetic circuitry. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2020; 63:167-176. [PMID: 32172160 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2020.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Generating novel functionality from well characterised synthetic parts and modules lies at the heart of synthetic biology. Ideally, circuitry is rationally designed in silico with quantitatively predictive models to predetermined design specifications. Synthetic circuits are intrinsically stochastic, often dynamically modulated and set in a dynamic fluctuating environment within a living cell. To build more complex circuits and to gain insight into context effects, intrinsic noise and transient performance, characterisation techniques that resolve both heterogeneity and dynamics are required. Here we review recent advances in both in vitro and in vivo microfluidic technologies that are suitable for the characterisation of synthetic circuitry, modules and parts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Prangemeier
- Centre for Synthetic Biology, Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Department of Biology, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Germany
| | - François-Xavier Lehr
- Centre for Synthetic Biology, Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Department of Biology, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Rogier M Schoeman
- Centre for Synthetic Biology, Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Department of Biology, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Heinz Koeppl
- Centre for Synthetic Biology, Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Department of Biology, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Germany.
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21
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Ayoubi-Joshaghani MH, Dianat-Moghadam H, Seidi K, Jahanban-Esfahalan A, Zare P, Jahanban-Esfahlan R. Cell-free protein synthesis: The transition from batch reactions to minimal cells and microfluidic devices. Biotechnol Bioeng 2020; 117:1204-1229. [PMID: 31840797 DOI: 10.1002/bit.27248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Revised: 11/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Thanks to the synthetic biology, the laborious and restrictive procedure for producing a target protein in living microorganisms by biotechnological approaches can now experience a robust, pliant yet efficient alternative. The new system combined with lab-on-chip microfluidic devices and nanotechnology offers a tremendous potential envisioning novel cell-free formats such as DNA brushes, hydrogels, vesicular particles, droplets, as well as solid surfaces. Acting as robust microreactors/microcompartments/minimal cells, the new platforms can be tuned to perform various tasks in a parallel and integrated manner encompassing gene expression, protein synthesis, purification, detection, and finally enabling cell-cell signaling to bring a collective cell behavior, such as directing differentiation process, characteristics of higher order entities, and beyond. In this review, we issue an update on recent cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS) formats. Furthermore, the latest advances and applications of CFPS for synthetic biology and biotechnology are highlighted. In the end, contemporary challenges and future opportunities of CFPS systems are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Khaled Seidi
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Peyman Zare
- Faculty of Medicine, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Rana Jahanban-Esfahlan
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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22
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Zhou L, Jiao X, Liu S, Hao M, Cheng S, Zhang P, Wen Y. Functional DNA-based hydrogel intelligent materials for biomedical applications. J Mater Chem B 2020; 8:1991-2009. [DOI: 10.1039/c9tb02716e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Multifunctional intelligent DNA hydrogels have been reviewed for many biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering
- University of Science and Technology Beijing
- Beijing
- China
| | - Xiangyu Jiao
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering
- University of Science and Technology Beijing
- Beijing
- China
| | - Songyang Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma
- Peking University People's Hospital
- Beijing
- China
| | - Mingda Hao
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering
- University of Science and Technology Beijing
- Beijing
- China
| | - Siyang Cheng
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering
- University of Science and Technology Beijing
- Beijing
- China
| | - Peixun Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma
- Peking University People's Hospital
- Beijing
- China
| | - Yongqiang Wen
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering
- University of Science and Technology Beijing
- Beijing
- China
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23
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Köhler T, Heida T, Hoefgen S, Weigel N, Valiante V, Thiele J. Cell-free protein synthesis and in situ immobilization of deGFP-MatB in polymer microgels for malonate-to-malonyl CoA conversion. RSC Adv 2020; 10:40588-40596. [PMID: 35520868 PMCID: PMC9057574 DOI: 10.1039/d0ra06702d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe a bottom-up approach towards functional enzymes utilizing microgels as carriers for genetic information that enable cell-free protein synthesis, in situ immobilization, and utilization of functional deGFP-MatB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony Köhler
- Institute of Physical Chemistry and Polymer Physics
- Leibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung Dresden e.V
- 01069 Dresden
- Germany
| | - Thomas Heida
- Institute of Physical Chemistry and Polymer Physics
- Leibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung Dresden e.V
- 01069 Dresden
- Germany
| | - Sandra Hoefgen
- Biobricks of Microbial Natural Product Syntheses
- Department of Molecular and Applied Microbiology
- Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology
- 07745 Jena
- Germany
| | - Niclas Weigel
- Institute of Physical Chemistry and Polymer Physics
- Leibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung Dresden e.V
- 01069 Dresden
- Germany
| | - Vito Valiante
- Biobricks of Microbial Natural Product Syntheses
- Department of Molecular and Applied Microbiology
- Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology
- 07745 Jena
- Germany
| | - Julian Thiele
- Institute of Physical Chemistry and Polymer Physics
- Leibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung Dresden e.V
- 01069 Dresden
- Germany
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24
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Heida T, Köhler T, Kaufmann A, Männel MJ, Thiele J. Cell‐Free Protein Synthesis in Bifunctional Hyaluronan Microgels: A Strategy for In Situ Immobilization and Purification of His‐Tagged Proteins. CHEMSYSTEMSCHEM 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/syst.201900058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Heida
- Institute of Physical Chemistry and Polymer PhysicsLeibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung Dresden e.V. Hohe Str. 6 01069 Dresden Germany
| | - Tony Köhler
- Institute of Physical Chemistry and Polymer PhysicsLeibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung Dresden e.V. Hohe Str. 6 01069 Dresden Germany
| | - Anika Kaufmann
- Institute of Physical Chemistry and Polymer PhysicsLeibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung Dresden e.V. Hohe Str. 6 01069 Dresden Germany
| | - Max J. Männel
- Institute of Physical Chemistry and Polymer PhysicsLeibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung Dresden e.V. Hohe Str. 6 01069 Dresden Germany
| | - Julian Thiele
- Institute of Physical Chemistry and Polymer PhysicsLeibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung Dresden e.V. Hohe Str. 6 01069 Dresden Germany
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25
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Ding
- Institute for Chemical and Bioengineering, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Philip D. Howes
- Institute for Chemical and Bioengineering, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Andrew J. deMello
- Institute for Chemical and Bioengineering, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
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26
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Guo X, Li F, Bai L, Yu W, Zhang X, Zhu Y, Yang D. Gene Circuit Compartment on Nanointerface Facilitatating Cascade Gene Expression. J Am Chem Soc 2019; 141:19171-19177. [PMID: 31721571 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.9b11407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cellular genes that are functionally related to each other are usually confined in specialized subcellular compartments for efficient biochemical reactions. Construction of spatially controlled biosynthetic systems will facilitate the study of biological design principles. Herein, we fabricated a gene circuit compartment by coanchoring two function-related genes on surface of gold nanoparticles and investigated the compartment effect on cascade gene expression in a cell-free system. The gene circuit consisted of a T7 RNA polymerase (T7 RNAP) expression cassette as regulatory gene and a fluorescent protein expression cassette as regulated reporter gene. Both the expression cassettes were attached on a Y-shaped DNA nanostructure whose other two branches were mercapto-modified in order to steadily anchor the gene expression cassettes on the surface of gold nanoparticles. Experimental results demonstrated that both the yield and initial expression rate of the fluorescent reporter protein in the gene circuit compartment system were enhanced compared with those in free gene circuit system. Mechanism investigation revealed that the gene circuit compartment on nanoparticle made the regulatory gene and regulated reporter gene spatially proximal at nanoscale, thus effectively improving the transfer efficiency of the regulatory proteins (T7 RNAP) from regulatory genes to the regulated reporter genes in the compartments, and consequently, the biochemical reaction efficiency was significantly increased. This work not only provided a simplified model for rational molecular programming of genes circuit compartments on nanointerface but also presented implications for the cellular structure-function relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaocui Guo
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology , Tianjin University , Tianjin , 300350 , P.R. China
| | - Feng Li
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology , Tianjin University , Tianjin , 300350 , P.R. China
| | - Lihui Bai
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology , Tianjin University , Tianjin , 300350 , P.R. China
| | - Wenting Yu
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology , Tianjin University , Tianjin , 300350 , P.R. China
| | - Xue Zhang
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology , Tianjin University , Tianjin , 300350 , P.R. China
| | - Yi Zhu
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology , Tianjin University , Tianjin , 300350 , P.R. China
| | - Dayong Yang
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology , Tianjin University , Tianjin , 300350 , P.R. China
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27
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28
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Guo X, Bai L, Li F, Huck WTS, Yang D. Branched DNA Architectures Produced by PCR-Based Assembly as Gene Compartments for Cell-Free Gene-Expression Reactions. Chembiochem 2019; 20:2597-2603. [PMID: 30938476 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.201900094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The physical distance between genes plays important roles in controlling gene expression reactions in vivo. Herein, we report the design and synthesis of a branched gene architecture in which three transcription units are integrated into one framework through assembly based on the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), together with the exploitation of these constructs as "gene compartments" for cell-free gene expression reactions, probing the impact of this physical environment on gene transcription and translation. We find that the branched gene system enhances gene expression yields, in particular at low concentrations of DNA and RNA polymerase (RNAP); furthermore, in a crowded microenvironment that mimics the intracellular microenvironment, gene expression from branched genes maintains a relatively high level. We propose that the branched gene assembly forms a membrane-free gene compartment that resembles the nucleoid of prokaryotes and enables RNAP to shuttle more efficiently between neighboring transcription units, thus enhancing gene expression efficiency. Our branched DNA architecture provides a valuable platform for studying the influence of "cellular" physical environments on biochemical reactions in simplified cell-free systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaocui Guo
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology and, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, P. R. China
| | - Lihui Bai
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology and, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, P. R. China
| | - Feng Li
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology and, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, P. R. China
| | - Wilhelm T S Huck
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525, AJ, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Dayong Yang
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology and, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, P. R. China
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29
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Eilenberger C, Spitz S, Bachmann BEM, Ehmoser EK, Ertl P, Rothbauer M. The Usual Suspects 2019: of Chips, Droplets, Synthesis, and Artificial Cells. MICROMACHINES 2019; 10:E285. [PMID: 31035574 PMCID: PMC6562886 DOI: 10.3390/mi10050285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic biology aims to understand fundamental biological processes in more detail than possible for actual living cells. Synthetic biology can combat decomposition and build-up of artificial experimental models under precisely controlled and defined environmental and biochemical conditions. Microfluidic systems can provide the tools to improve and refine existing synthetic systems because they allow control and manipulation of liquids on a micro- and nanoscale. In addition, chip-based approaches are predisposed for synthetic biology applications since they present an opportune technological toolkit capable of fully automated high throughput and content screening under low reagent consumption. This review critically highlights the latest updates in microfluidic cell-free and cell-based protein synthesis as well as the progress on chip-based artificial cells. Even though progress is slow for microfluidic synthetic biology, microfluidic systems are valuable tools for synthetic biology and may one day help to give answers to long asked questions of fundamental cell biology and life itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Eilenberger
- Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry, Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Vienna University of Technology, A-1060 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Sarah Spitz
- Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry, Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Vienna University of Technology, A-1060 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Barbara Eva Maria Bachmann
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria; Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Experimental and Clinical Traumatology, Allgemeine Unfallversicherungsanstalt (AUVA) Research Centre, A-1200 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Eva Kathrin Ehmoser
- Institute of Synthetic Bioarchitectures, Department of Nanobiotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna, A-1190 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Peter Ertl
- Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry, Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Vienna University of Technology, A-1060 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Mario Rothbauer
- Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry, Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Vienna University of Technology, A-1060 Vienna, Austria.
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30
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Gregorio NE, Levine MZ, Oza JP. A User's Guide to Cell-Free Protein Synthesis. Methods Protoc 2019; 2:E24. [PMID: 31164605 PMCID: PMC6481089 DOI: 10.3390/mps2010024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Revised: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS) is a platform technology that provides new opportunities for protein expression, metabolic engineering, therapeutic development, education, and more. The advantages of CFPS over in vivo protein expression include its open system, the elimination of reliance on living cells, and the ability to focus all system energy on production of the protein of interest. Over the last 60 years, the CFPS platform has grown and diversified greatly, and it continues to evolve today. Both new applications and new types of extracts based on a variety of organisms are current areas of development. However, new users interested in CFPS may find it challenging to implement a cell-free platform in their laboratory due to the technical and functional considerations involved in choosing and executing a platform that best suits their needs. Here we hope to reduce this barrier to implementing CFPS by clarifying the similarities and differences amongst cell-free platforms, highlighting the various applications that have been accomplished in each of them, and detailing the main methodological and instrumental requirement for their preparation. Additionally, this review will help to contextualize the landscape of work that has been done using CFPS and showcase the diversity of applications that it enables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole E Gregorio
- Center for Applications in Biotechnology, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407, USA.
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407, USA.
| | - Max Z Levine
- Center for Applications in Biotechnology, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407, USA.
- Department of Biological Sciences, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407, USA.
| | - Javin P Oza
- Center for Applications in Biotechnology, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407, USA.
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407, USA.
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31
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Abstract
Cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS) has become an established tool for rapid protein synthesis in order to accelerate the discovery of new enzymes and the development of proteins with improved characteristics. Over the past years, progress in CFPS system preparation has been made towards simplification, and many applications have been developed with regard to tailor-made solutions for specific purposes. In this review, various preparation methods of CFPS systems are compared and the significance of individual supplements is assessed. The recent applications of CFPS are summarized and the potential for biocatalyst development discussed. One of the central features is the high-throughput synthesis of protein variants, which enables sophisticated approaches for rapid prototyping of enzymes. These applications demonstrate the contribution of CFPS to enhance enzyme functionalities and the complementation to in vivo protein synthesis. However, there are different issues to be addressed, such as the low predictability of CFPS performance and transferability to in vivo protein synthesis. Nevertheless, the usage of CFPS for high-throughput enzyme screening has been proven to be an efficient method to discover novel biocatalysts and improved enzyme variants.
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