1
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Liu Y, Zhai Y, Hu H, Liao Y, Liu H, Liu X, He J, Wang L, Wang H, Li L, Zhou X, Xiao X. Erasable and Field Programmable DNA Circuits Based on Configurable Logic Blocks. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2400011. [PMID: 38698560 PMCID: PMC11234411 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202400011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
DNA is commonly employed as a substrate for the building of artificial logic networks due to its excellent biocompatibility and programmability. Till now, DNA logic circuits are rapidly evolving to accomplish advanced operations. Nonetheless, nowadays, most DNA circuits remain to be disposable and lack of field programmability and thereby limits their practicability. Herein, inspired by the Configurable Logic Block (CLB), the CLB-based erasable field-programmable DNA circuit that uses clip strands as its operation-controlling signals is presented. It enables users to realize diverse functions with limited hardware. CLB-based basic logic gates (OR and AND) are first constructed and demonstrated their erasability and field programmability. Furthermore, by adding the appropriate operation-controlling strands, multiple rounds of programming are achieved among five different logic operations on a two-layer circuit. Subsequently, a circuit is successfully built to implement two fundamental binary calculators: half-adder and half-subtractor, proving that the design can imitate silicon-based binary circuits. Finally, a comprehensive CLB-based circuit is built that enables multiple rounds of switch among seven different logic operations including half-adding and half-subtracting. Overall, the CLB-based erasable field-programmable circuit immensely enhances their practicability. It is believed that design can be widely used in DNA logic networks due to its efficiency and convenience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizhou Liu
- School of Life Science and TechnologyWuhan Polytechnic UniversityWuhan430023China
- Institute of Reproductive HealthTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430030China
| | - Yuxuan Zhai
- School of Life Science and TechnologyWuhan Polytechnic UniversityWuhan430023China
| | - Hao Hu
- Institute of Reproductive HealthTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430030China
| | - Yuheng Liao
- Institute of Reproductive HealthTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430030China
| | - Huan Liu
- Institute of Reproductive HealthTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430030China
| | - Xiao Liu
- Institute of Reproductive HealthTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430030China
| | - Jiachen He
- Institute of Reproductive HealthTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430030China
| | - Limei Wang
- School of Life Science and TechnologyWuhan Polytechnic UniversityWuhan430023China
| | - Hongxun Wang
- School of Life Science and TechnologyWuhan Polytechnic UniversityWuhan430023China
| | - Longjie Li
- School of Life Science and TechnologyWuhan Polytechnic UniversityWuhan430023China
- Institute of Reproductive HealthTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430030China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhou
- Department of Precision Diagnostic and Therapeutic TechnologyCity University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Futian Research InstituteShenzhenGuangdong518000China
| | - Xianjin Xiao
- Institute of Reproductive HealthTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430030China
- Department of Laboratory MedicineTongji HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhan430030China
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2
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Mallette TL, Lidke DS, Lakin MR. Heterochiral modifications enhance robustness and function of DNA in living human cells. Chembiochem 2024; 25:e202300755. [PMID: 38228506 PMCID: PMC10923132 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202300755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Oligonucleotide therapeutics are becoming increasingly important as more are approved by the FDA, both for treatment and vaccination. Similarly, dynamic DNA nanotechnology is a promising technique that can be used to sense exogenous input molecules or endogenous biomarkers and integrate the results of multiple sensing reactions in situ via a programmed cascade of reactions. The combination of these two technologies could be highly impactful in biomedicine by enabling smart oligonucleotide therapeutics that can autonomously sense and respond to a disease state. A particular challenge, however, is the limited lifetime of standard nucleic acid components in living cells and organisms due to degradation by endogenous nucleases. In this work, we address this challenge by incorporating mirror-image, ʟ-DNA nucleotides to produce heterochiral "gapmers". We use dynamic DNA nanotechnology to show that these modifications keep the oligonucleotide intact in living human cells for longer than an unmodified strand. To this end, we used a sequential transfection protocol for delivering multiple nucleic acids into living human cells while providing enhanced confidence that subsequent interactions are actually occurring within the cells. Taken together, this work advances the state of the art of ʟ-nucleic acid protection of oligonucleotides and DNA circuitry for applications in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy L Mallette
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 87131, USA
| | - Diane S Lidke
- Department of Pathology and Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 87131, USA
| | - Matthew R Lakin
- Department of Computer Science, Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, Center for Biomedical Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 87131, USA
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3
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Schaffter SW, Wintenberg ME, Murphy TM, Strychalski EA. Design Approaches to Expand the Toolkit for Building Cotranscriptionally Encoded RNA Strand Displacement Circuits. ACS Synth Biol 2023; 12:1546-1561. [PMID: 37134273 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Cotranscriptionally encoded RNA strand displacement (ctRSD) circuits are an emerging tool for programmable molecular computation, with potential applications spanning in vitro diagnostics to continuous computation inside living cells. In ctRSD circuits, RNA strand displacement components are continuously produced together via transcription. These RNA components can be rationally programmed through base pairing interactions to execute logic and signaling cascades. However, the small number of ctRSD components characterized to date limits circuit size and capabilities. Here, we characterize over 200 ctRSD gate sequences, exploring different input, output, and toehold sequences and changes to other design parameters, including domain lengths, ribozyme sequences, and the order in which gate strands are transcribed. This characterization provides a library of sequence domains for engineering ctRSD components, i.e., a toolkit, enabling circuits with up to 4-fold more inputs than previously possible. We also identify specific failure modes and systematically develop design approaches that reduce the likelihood of failure across different gate sequences. Lastly, we show the ctRSD gate design is robust to changes in transcriptional encoding, opening a broad design space for applications in more complex environments. Together, these results deliver an expanded toolkit and design approaches for building ctRSD circuits that will dramatically extend capabilities and potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel W Schaffter
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899, United States
| | - Molly E Wintenberg
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899, United States
| | - Terence M Murphy
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899, United States
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4
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Chen C, Wen J, Wen Z, Song S, Shi X. DNA strand displacement based computational systems and their applications. Front Genet 2023; 14:1120791. [PMID: 36911397 PMCID: PMC9992816 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1120791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA computing has become the focus of computing research due to its excellent parallel processing capability, data storage capacity, and low energy consumption characteristics. DNA computational units can be precisely programmed through the sequence specificity and base pair principle. Then, computational units can be cascaded and integrated to form large DNA computing systems. Among them, DNA strand displacement (DSD) is the simplest but most efficient method for constructing DNA computing systems. The inputs and outputs of DSD are signal strands that can be transferred to the next unit. DSD has been used to construct logic gates, integrated circuits, artificial neural networks, etc. This review introduced the recent development of DSD-based computational systems and their applications. Some DSD-related tools and issues are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congzhou Chen
- School of Computer Science, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Jinda Wen
- Institute of Computing Science and Technology, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhibin Wen
- Institute of Computing Science and Technology, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sijie Song
- Institute of Computing Science and Technology, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaolong Shi
- Institute of Computing Science and Technology, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, China
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5
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Mallette TL, Lakin MR. Protecting Heterochiral DNA Nanostructures against Exonuclease-Mediated Degradation. ACS Synth Biol 2022; 11:2222-2228. [PMID: 35749687 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.2c00105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Heterochiral DNA nanotechnology employs nucleic acids of both chiralities to construct nanoscale devices for applications in the intracellular environment. Interacting directly with cellular nucleic acids can be done most easily using D-DNA of the naturally occurring right-handed chirality; however, D-DNA is more vulnerable to degradation than enantiometric left-handed L-DNA. Here we report a novel combination of D-DNA and L-DNA nucleotides in triblock heterochiral copolymers, where the L-DNA domains act as protective caps on D-DNA domains. We demonstrate that the D-DNA components of strand displacement-based molecular circuits constructed using this technique resist exonuclease-mediated degradation during extended incubations in serum-supplemented media more readily than similar devices without the L-DNA caps. We show that this protection can be applied to both double-stranded and single-stranded circuit components. Our work enhances the state of the art for robust heterochiral circuit design and could lead to practical applications such as in vivo biomedical diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy L Mallette
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
| | - Matthew R Lakin
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States.,Department of Computer Science, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States.,Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
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6
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Schaffter SW, Strychalski EA. Cotranscriptionally encoded RNA strand displacement circuits. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabl4354. [PMID: 35319994 PMCID: PMC8942360 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abl4354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Engineered molecular circuits that process information in biological systems could address emerging human health and biomanufacturing needs. However, such circuits can be difficult to rationally design and scale. DNA-based strand displacement reactions have demonstrated the largest and most computationally powerful molecular circuits to date but are limited in biological systems due to the difficulty in genetically encoding components. Here, we develop scalable cotranscriptionally encoded RNA strand displacement (ctRSD) circuits that are rationally programmed via base pairing interactions. ctRSD circuits address the limitations of DNA-based strand displacement circuits by isothermally producing circuit components via transcription. We demonstrate circuit programmability in vitro by implementing logic and amplification elements, as well as multilayer cascades. Furthermore, we show that circuit kinetics are accurately predicted by a simple model of coupled transcription and strand displacement, enabling model-driven design. We envision ctRSD circuits will enable the rational design of powerful molecular circuits that operate in biological systems, including living cells.
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7
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Galas JC, Estevez-Torres A, Van Der Hofstadt M. Long-Lasting and Responsive DNA/Enzyme-Based Programs in Serum-Supplemented Extracellular Media. ACS Synth Biol 2022; 11:968-976. [PMID: 35133811 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.1c00583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
DNA molecular programs are emerging as promising pharmaceutical approaches due to their versatility for biomolecular sensing and actuation. However, the implementation of DNA programs has been mainly limited to serum-deprived in vitro assays due to the fast deterioration of the DNA reaction networks by the nucleases present in the serum. Here, we show that DNA/enzyme programs are functional in serum for 24 h but are later disrupted by nucleases that give rise to parasitic amplification. To overcome this, we implement three-letter code networks that suppress autocatalytic parasites while still conserving the functionality of DNA/enzyme programs for at least 3 days in the presence of 10% serum. In addition, we define a new buffer that further increases the biocompatibility and conserves responsiveness to changes in molecular composition across time. Finally, we demonstrate how serum-supplemented extracellular DNA molecular programs remain responsive to molecular inputs in the presence of living cells, having responses 6-fold faster than the cellular division rate, and are sustainable for at least three cellular divisions. This demonstrates the possibility of implementing in situ biomolecular characterization tools for serum-demanding in vitro models. We foresee that the coupling of chemical reactivity to our DNA programs by aptamers or oligonucleotide conjugations will allow the implementation of extracellular synthetic biology tools, which will offer new biomolecular pharmaceutical approaches and the emergence of complex and autonomous in vitro models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Christophe Galas
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS), Laboratoire Jean Perrin (LJP), F-75005, Paris, France
| | - André Estevez-Torres
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS), Laboratoire Jean Perrin (LJP), F-75005, Paris, France
| | - Marc Van Der Hofstadt
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS), Laboratoire Jean Perrin (LJP), F-75005, Paris, France
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8
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Development of Synthetic DNA Circuit and Networks for Molecular Information Processing. NANOMATERIALS 2021; 11:nano11112955. [PMID: 34835719 PMCID: PMC8625377 DOI: 10.3390/nano11112955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), a genetic material, encodes all living information and living characteristics, e.g., in cell, DNA signaling circuits control the transcription activities of specific genes. In recent years, various DNA circuits have been developed to implement a wide range of signaling and for regulating gene network functions. In particular, a synthetic DNA circuit, with a programmable design and easy construction, has become a crucial method through which to simulate and regulate DNA signaling networks. Importantly, the construction of a hierarchical DNA circuit provides a useful tool for regulating gene networks and for processing molecular information. Moreover, via their robust and modular properties, DNA circuits can amplify weak signals and establish programmable cascade systems, which are particularly suitable for the applications of biosensing and detecting. Furthermore, a biological enzyme can also be used to provide diverse circuit regulation elements. Currently, studies regarding the mechanisms and applications of synthetic DNA circuit are important for the establishment of more advanced artificial gene regulation systems and intelligent molecular sensing tools. We therefore summarize recent relevant research progress, contributing to the development of nanotechnology-based synthetic DNA circuits. By summarizing the current highlights and the development of synthetic DNA circuits, this paper provides additional insights for future DNA circuit development and provides a foundation for the construction of more advanced DNA circuits.
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9
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Kabza AM, Kundu N, Zhong W, Sczepanski JT. Integration of chemically modified nucleotides with DNA strand displacement reactions for applications in living systems. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2021; 14:e1743. [PMID: 34328690 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Watson-Crick base pairing rules provide a powerful approach for engineering DNA-based nanodevices with programmable and predictable behaviors. In particular, DNA strand displacement reactions have enabled the development of an impressive repertoire of molecular devices with complex functionalities. By relying on DNA to function, dynamic strand displacement devices represent powerful tools for the interrogation and manipulation of biological systems. Yet, implementation in living systems has been a slow process due to several persistent challenges, including nuclease degradation. To circumvent these issues, researchers are increasingly turning to chemically modified nucleotides as a means to increase device performance and reliability within harsh biological environments. In this review, we summarize recent progress toward the integration of chemically modified nucleotides with DNA strand displacement reactions, highlighting key successes in the development of robust systems and devices that operate in living cells and in vivo. We discuss the advantages and disadvantages of commonly employed modifications as they pertain to DNA strand displacement, as well as considerations that must be taken into account when applying modified oligonucleotide to living cells. Finally, we explore how chemically modified nucleotides fit into the broader goal of bringing dynamic DNA nanotechnology into the cell, and the challenges that remain. This article is categorized under: Diagnostic Tools > In Vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology Diagnostic Tools > Biosensing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam M Kabza
- Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Nandini Kundu
- Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Wenrui Zhong
- Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
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10
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Kundu N, Young BE, Sczepanski JT. Kinetics of heterochiral strand displacement from PNA-DNA heteroduplexes. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:6114-6127. [PMID: 34125895 PMCID: PMC8216467 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Dynamic DNA nanodevices represent powerful tools for the interrogation and manipulation of biological systems. Yet, implementation remains challenging due to nuclease degradation and other cellular factors. Use of l-DNA, the nuclease resistant enantiomer of native d-DNA, provides a promising solution. On this basis, we recently developed a strand displacement methodology, referred to as ‘heterochiral’ strand displacement, that enables robust l-DNA nanodevices to be sequence-specifically interfaced with endogenous d-nucleic acids. However, the underlying reaction – strand displacement from PNA–DNA heteroduplexes – remains poorly characterized, limiting design capabilities. Herein, we characterize the kinetics of strand displacement from PNA–DNA heteroduplexes and show that reaction rates can be predictably tuned based on several common design parameters, including toehold length and mismatches. Moreover, we investigate the impact of nucleic acid stereochemistry on reaction kinetics and thermodynamics, revealing important insights into the biophysical mechanisms of heterochiral strand displacement. Importantly, we show that strand displacement from PNA–DNA heteroduplexes is compatible with RNA inputs, the most common nucleic acid target for intracellular applications. Overall, this work greatly improves the understanding of heterochiral strand displacement reactions and will be useful in the rational design and optimization of l-DNA nanodevices that operate at the interface with biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nandini Kundu
- Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Brian E Young
- Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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11
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Van Der Hofstadt M, Galas JC, Estevez-Torres A. Spatiotemporal Patterning of Living Cells with Extracellular DNA Programs. ACS NANO 2021; 15:1741-1752. [PMID: 33356142 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.0c09422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Reactive extracellular media focus on engineering reaction networks outside the cell to control intracellular chemical composition across time and space. However, current implementations lack the feedback loops and out-of-equilibrium molecular dynamics for encoding spatiotemporal control. Here, we demonstrate that enzyme-DNA molecular programs combining these qualities are functional in an extracellular medium where human cells can grow. With this approach, we construct an internalization program that delivers fluorescent DNA inside living cells and remains functional for at least 48 h. Its nonequilibrium dynamics allows us to control both the time and position of cell internalization. In particular, a spatially inhomogeneous version of this program generates a tunable reaction-diffusion two-band pattern of cell internalization. This demonstrates that a synthetic extracellular program can provide temporal and positional information to living cells, emulating archetypal mechanisms observed during embryo development. We foresee that nonequilibrium reactive extracellular media could be advantageously applied to in vitro biomolecular tracking, tissue engineering, or smart bandages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Van Der Hofstadt
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS), Laboratoire Jean Perrin (LJP), F-75005, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Galas
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS), Laboratoire Jean Perrin (LJP), F-75005, Paris, France
| | - André Estevez-Torres
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS), Laboratoire Jean Perrin (LJP), F-75005, Paris, France
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12
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Mallette TL, Stojanovic MN, Stefanovic D, Lakin MR. Robust Heterochiral Strand Displacement Using Leakless Translators. ACS Synth Biol 2020; 9:1907-1910. [PMID: 32551499 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.0c00131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Molecular computing offers a powerful framework for in situ biosensing and signal processing at the nanoscale. However, for in vivo applications, the use of conventional DNA components can lead to false positive signals being generated due to degradation of circuit components by nuclease enzymes. Here, we use hybrid chiral molecules, consisting of both l- and d-nucleic acid domains, to implement leakless signal translators that enable d-nucleic acid signals to be detected by hybridization and then translated into a robust l-DNA signal for further analysis. We show that our system is robust to false positive signals even if the d-DNA components are degraded by nucleases, thanks to circuit-level robustness. This work thus broadens the scope and applicability of DNA-based molecular computers for practical, in vivo applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy L. Mallette
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
| | - Milan N. Stojanovic
- Division of Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York 10032, United States
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Systems Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York 10027, United States
| | - Darko Stefanovic
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
- Department of Computer Science, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
| | - Matthew R. Lakin
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
- Department of Computer Science, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
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13
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McCluskey JB, Clark DS, Glover DJ. Functional Applications of Nucleic Acid-Protein Hybrid Nanostructures. Trends Biotechnol 2020; 38:976-989. [PMID: 32818445 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2020.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Combining the diverse chemical functionality of proteins with the predictable structural assembly of nucleic acids has enabled the creation of hybrid nanostructures for a range of biotechnology applications. Through the attachment of proteins onto or within nucleic acid nanostructures, materials with dynamic capabilities can be created that include switchable enzyme activity, targeted drug delivery, and multienzyme cascades for biocatalysis. Investigations of difficult-to-study biological mechanisms have also been aided by using DNA-protein assemblies that mimic natural processes in a controllable manner. Furthermore, advances that enable the recombinant production and intracellular assembly of hybrid nanostructures have the potential to overcome the significant manufacturing cost that has limited the use of DNA and RNA nanotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua B McCluskey
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Douglas S Clark
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Dominic J Glover
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
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14
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Abstract
The programmability of DNA/RNA-based molecular circuits provides numerous opportunities in the field of synthetic biology. However, the stability of nucleic acids remains a major concern when performing complex computations in biological environments. Our solution to this problem is L-(deoxy)ribose nucleic acids (L-DNA/RNA), which are mirror images (i.e. enantiomers) of natural D-nucleotides. L-oligonucleotides have the same physical and chemical properties as their natural counterparts, yet they are completely invisible to the stereospecific environment of biology. We recently reported a novel strand-displacement methodology for transferring sequence information between oligonucleotide enantiomers (which are incapable of base pairing with each other), enabling bio-orthogonal L-DNA/RNA circuits to be easily interfaced with living systems. In this perspective, we summarize these so-called "heterochiral" circuits, provide a viewpoint on their potential applications in synthetic biology, and discuss key problems that must be solved before achieving the ultimate goal of engineering complex and reliable functionality.
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Kizer ME, Linhardt RJ, Chandrasekaran AR, Wang X. A Molecular Hero Suit for In Vitro and In Vivo DNA Nanostructures. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2019; 15:e1805386. [PMID: 30985074 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201805386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Precise control of DNA base pairing has rapidly developed into a field full of diverse nanoscale structures and devices that are capable of automation, performing molecular analyses, mimicking enzymatic cascades, biosensing, and delivering drugs. This DNA-based platform has shown the potential of offering novel therapeutics and biomolecular analysis but will ultimately require clever modification to enrich or achieve the needed "properties" and make it whole. These modifications total what are categorized as the molecular hero suit of DNA nanotechnology. Like a hero, DNA nanostructures have the ability to put on a suit equipped with honing mechanisms, molecular flares, encapsulated cargoes, a protective body armor, and an evasive stealth mode.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan E Kizer
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, 12180, USA
| | - Robert J Linhardt
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, 12180, USA
| | | | - Xing Wang
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, 12180, USA
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16
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Jeong D, Klocke M, Agarwal S, Kim J, Choi S, Franco E, Kim J. Cell-Free Synthetic Biology Platform for Engineering Synthetic Biological Circuits and Systems. Methods Protoc 2019; 2:E39. [PMID: 31164618 PMCID: PMC6632179 DOI: 10.3390/mps2020039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic biology brings engineering disciplines to create novel biological systems for biomedical and technological applications. The substantial growth of the synthetic biology field in the past decade is poised to transform biotechnology and medicine. To streamline design processes and facilitate debugging of complex synthetic circuits, cell-free synthetic biology approaches has reached broad research communities both in academia and industry. By recapitulating gene expression systems in vitro, cell-free expression systems offer flexibility to explore beyond the confines of living cells and allow networking of synthetic and natural systems. Here, we review the capabilities of the current cell-free platforms, focusing on nucleic acid-based molecular programs and circuit construction. We survey the recent developments including cell-free transcription-translation platforms, DNA nanostructures and circuits, and novel classes of riboregulators. The links to mathematical models and the prospects of cell-free synthetic biology platforms will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dohyun Jeong
- Division of Integrative Biosciences and Biotechnology, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-ro, Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, Korea.
| | - Melissa Klocke
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California at Riverside, 900 University Ave, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.
| | - Siddharth Agarwal
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California at Riverside, 900 University Ave, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.
| | - Jeongwon Kim
- Division of Integrative Biosciences and Biotechnology, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-ro, Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, Korea.
| | - Seungdo Choi
- Division of Integrative Biosciences and Biotechnology, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-ro, Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, Korea.
| | - Elisa Franco
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California at Los Angeles, 420 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Jongmin Kim
- Division of Integrative Biosciences and Biotechnology, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-ro, Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, Korea.
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17
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Joesaar A, Yang S, Bögels B, van der Linden A, Pieters P, Kumar BVVSP, Dalchau N, Phillips A, Mann S, de Greef TFA. DNA-based communication in populations of synthetic protocells. NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY 2019; 14:369-378. [PMID: 30833694 PMCID: PMC6451639 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-019-0399-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 193] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Developing molecular communication platforms based on orthogonal communication channels is a crucial step towards engineering artificial multicellular systems. Here, we present a general and scalable platform entitled 'biomolecular implementation of protocellular communication' (BIO-PC) to engineer distributed multichannel molecular communication between populations of non-lipid semipermeable microcapsules. Our method leverages the modularity and scalability of enzyme-free DNA strand-displacement circuits to develop protocellular consortia that can sense, process and respond to DNA-based messages. We engineer a rich variety of biochemical communication devices capable of cascaded amplification, bidirectional communication and distributed computational operations. Encapsulating DNA strand-displacement circuits further allows their use in concentrated serum where non-compartmentalized DNA circuits cannot operate. BIO-PC enables reliable execution of distributed DNA-based molecular programs in biologically relevant environments and opens new directions in DNA computing and minimal cell technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Joesaar
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Computational Biology Group, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Shuo Yang
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Computational Biology Group, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Bas Bögels
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Computational Biology Group, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Ardjan van der Linden
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Computational Biology Group, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Pascal Pieters
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Computational Biology Group, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - B V V S Pavan Kumar
- Centre for Protolife Research and Centre for Organized Matter Chemistry, School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | | | - Stephen Mann
- Centre for Protolife Research and Centre for Organized Matter Chemistry, School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Tom F A de Greef
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
- Computational Biology Group, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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18
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Liu YC, Nau WM, Hennig A. A supramolecular five-component relay switch that exposes the mechanistic competition of dissociative versus associative binding to cucurbiturils by ratiometric fluorescence monitoring. Chem Commun (Camb) 2019; 55:14123-14126. [DOI: 10.1039/c9cc07165b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
A putrescine derivative of aminomethyladamantane is established as a ditopic guest with two mutually exclusive binding sites for cucurbit[6]uril and cucurbit[7]uril.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Cen Liu
- Department of Life Sciences and Chemistry
- Jacobs University Bremen gGmbH
- 28759 Bremen
- Germany
| | - Werner M. Nau
- Department of Life Sciences and Chemistry
- Jacobs University Bremen gGmbH
- 28759 Bremen
- Germany
| | - Andreas Hennig
- Department of Life Sciences and Chemistry
- Jacobs University Bremen gGmbH
- 28759 Bremen
- Germany
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19
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Cunningham RM, Hickey AM, Wilson JW, Plakos KJI, DeRose VJ. Pt-induced crosslinks promote target enrichment and protection from serum nucleases. J Inorg Biochem 2018; 189:124-133. [PMID: 30245274 PMCID: PMC7703794 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2018.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Revised: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Identifying the interactions of small molecules with biomolecules in complex cellular environments is a significant challenge. As one important example, despite being widely used for decades, much is still not understood regarding the cellular targets of Pt(II)-based anticancer drugs. In this study we introduce a novel method for isolation of Pt(II)-bound biomolecules using a DNA hybridization pull-down approach. Using a modified Pt reagent, click-ligation of a DNA oligonucleotide to both a Pt(II)-bound DNA hairpin and bovine serum albumin (BSA) are demonstrated. Subsequent hybridization to a biotin-labeled oligonucleotide allows for efficient isolation of Pt(II)-bound species by streptavidin pulldown. We also find that platinated bovine serum albumin readily crosslinks to DNA in the absence of click ligation, and that a fraction of BSA-bound Pt(II) can transfer to DNA over time. Interestingly, in in vitro studies, fragmented mammalian DNA that is crosslinked to BSA through Pt(II) exhibits significantly increased protection from degradation by serum nucleases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael M Cunningham
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA; Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA
| | - Anna M Hickey
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA
| | - Jesse W Wilson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA; Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA
| | - Kory J I Plakos
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA; Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA
| | - Victoria J DeRose
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA; Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA.
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20
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Opportunities in biotechnology. J Biotechnol 2018; 282:38-45. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2018.06.303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Revised: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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21
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Dalchau N, Szép G, Hernansaiz-Ballesteros R, Barnes CP, Cardelli L, Phillips A, Csikász-Nagy A. Computing with biological switches and clocks. NATURAL COMPUTING 2018; 17:761-779. [PMID: 30524215 PMCID: PMC6244770 DOI: 10.1007/s11047-018-9686-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
The complex dynamics of biological systems is primarily driven by molecular interactions that underpin the regulatory networks of cells. These networks typically contain positive and negative feedback loops, which are responsible for switch-like and oscillatory dynamics, respectively. Many computing systems rely on switches and clocks as computational modules. While the combination of such modules in biological systems leads to a variety of dynamical behaviours, it is also driving development of new computing algorithms. Here we present a historical perspective on computation by biological systems, with a focus on switches and clocks, and discuss parallels between biology and computing. We also outline our vision for the future of biological computing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Luca Cardelli
- Microsoft Research, Cambridge, UK
- University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Attila Csikász-Nagy
- King’s College London, London, UK
- Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
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22
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Flexible regulation of DNA displacement reaction through nucleic acid-recognition enzyme and its application in keypad lock system and biosensing. Sci Rep 2017; 7:10017. [PMID: 28855676 PMCID: PMC5577262 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-10459-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Toehold-mediated DNA strand displacement reaction (SDR) plays pivotal roles for the construction of diverse dynamic DNA nanodevices. To date, many elements have been introduced into SDR system to achieve controllable activation and fine regulation. However, as the most relevant stimuli for nucleic acid involved reaction, nucleic acid-recognizing enzymes (NAEs) have received nearly no attention so far despite SDR often takes place in NAEs-enriched environment (i.e., biological fluids). Herein, we report a set of NAEs-controlled SDR strategies, which take full advantage of NAEs’ properties. In this study, three different kinds of enzymes belonging to several classes (i.e., exonuclease, endonuclease and polymerase) have been used to activate or inhibit SDR, and more importantly, some mechanisms behind these strategies on how NAEs affect SDR have also been revealed. The exploration to use NAEs as possible cues to operate SDR will expand the available toolbox to build novel stimuli-fueled DNA nanodevices and could open the door to many applications including enzyme-triggered biocomputing and biosensing.
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23
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Re A. Synthetic Gene Expression Circuits for Designing Precision Tools in Oncology. Front Cell Dev Biol 2017; 5:77. [PMID: 28894736 PMCID: PMC5581392 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2017.00077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Precision medicine in oncology needs to enhance its capabilities to match diagnostic and therapeutic technologies to individual patients. Synthetic biology streamlines the design and construction of functionalized devices through standardization and rational engineering of basic biological elements decoupled from their natural context. Remarkable improvements have opened the prospects for the availability of synthetic devices of enhanced mechanism clarity, robustness, sensitivity, as well as scalability and portability, which might bring new capabilities in precision cancer medicine implementations. In this review, we begin by presenting a brief overview of some of the major advances in the engineering of synthetic genetic circuits aimed to the control of gene expression and operating at the transcriptional, post-transcriptional/translational, and post-translational levels. We then focus on engineering synthetic circuits as an enabling methodology for the successful establishment of precision technologies in oncology. We describe significant advancements in our capabilities to tailor synthetic genetic circuits to specific applications in tumor diagnosis, tumor cell- and gene-based therapy, and drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Re
- Centre for Sustainable Future Technologies, Istituto Italiano di TecnologiaTorino, Italy
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