1
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Che H, Wang Z, Li Y, Nie Y, Tian X. A Stable and Sensitive Engineering Bacterial Sensor via Physical Biocontainment and Two-Stage Signal Amplification. Anal Chem 2024; 96:8807-8813. [PMID: 38714342 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c01341] [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: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
Although engineering bacterial sensors have outstanding advantages in reflecting the actual bioavailability and continuous monitoring of pollutants, the potential escape risk of engineering microorganisms and lower detection sensitivity have always been one of the biggest challenges limiting their wider application. In this study, a core-shell hydrogel bead with functionalized silica as the core and alginate-polyacrylamide as the shell have been developed not only to realize zero escape of engineered bacteria but also to maintain cell activity in harsh environments, such as extremely acidic/alkaline pH, high salt concentration, and strong pressure. Particularly, after combining the selective preconcentration toward pollutants by functionalized core and the positive feedback signal amplification of engineering bacteria, biosensors have realized two-stage signal amplification, significantly improving the detection sensitivity and reducing the detection limit. In addition, this strategy was actually applied to the detection of As(III) and As(V) coexisting in environmental samples, and the detection sensitivity was increased by 3.23 and 4.39 times compared to sensors without signal amplification strategy, respectively, and the detection limits were as low as 0.39 and 0.86 ppb, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huachao Che
- Faculty of Materials Science and Chemistry, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Zhiyue Wang
- Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Hawai'i, Honolulu Hawai'i 96822, United States
- Water Resources Research Center, University of Hawai'i, Honolulu, Hawai'i 96822, United States
| | - Yong Li
- Faculty of Materials Science and Chemistry, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Yulun Nie
- Faculty of Materials Science and Chemistry, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Xike Tian
- Faculty of Materials Science and Chemistry, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430074, China
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2
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Nou XA, Voigt CA. Sentinel cells programmed to respond to environmental DNA including human sequences. Nat Chem Biol 2024; 20:211-220. [PMID: 37770697 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-023-01431-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Monitoring environmental DNA can track the presence of organisms, from viruses to animals, but requires continuous sampling of transient sequences from a complex milieu. Here we designed living sentinels using Bacillus subtilis to report the uptake of a DNA sequence after matching it to a preencoded target. Overexpression of ComK increased DNA uptake 3,000-fold, allowing for femtomolar detection in samples dominated by background DNA. This capability was demonstrated using human sequences containing single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with facial features. Sequences were recorded with high efficiency and were protected from nucleases for weeks. The SNP could be determined by sequencing or in vivo using CRISPR interference to turn on reporter expression in response to a specific base. Multiple SNPs were recorded by one cell or through a consortium in which each member recorded a different sequence. Sentinel cells could surveil for specific sequences over long periods of time for applications spanning forensics, ecology and epidemiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuefei Angelina Nou
- Synthetic Biology Center, Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Christopher A Voigt
- Synthetic Biology Center, Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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3
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Wang Z, Ma R, Chen B, Yu X, Wang X, Zuo X, Liang B, Yang J. A transcription factor-based bacterial biosensor system and its application for on-site detection of explosives. Biosens Bioelectron 2024; 244:115805. [PMID: 37948915 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Detecting unexploded landmines is critical due to the environmental pollution and potential humanitarian risks caused by buried landmines. Therefore, this study focused on developing a biosensor system capable of detecting explosives safely and efficiently. A novel transcription factor-based Escherichia coli biosensor was designed to detect 1,3-dinitrobenzene (1,3-DNB). The MexT transcription factor from Pseudomonas putida (P. putida) was identified as the fundamental sensing element in this biosensor. The study found that MexT positively regulated the transcription of PP_2827 by binding to the bidirectional promoter region between them, and significantly enhanced the expression of downstream genes under the condition of 1,3-DNB. The MexT-based biosensor for 1,3-DNB was developed by adopting different combinations of the mexT gene and promoters. The optimized biosensor demonstrated adequate sensitivity for detecting 0.1 μg/mL of 1,3-DNB in a liquid solution with satisfactory specificity and long-term stability. Subsequently, the MexT-based biosensor was integrated into a detection device to simulate the in-field exploration of explosives. The system exhibited a detection sensitivity of 0.5 mg/kg for 1,3-DNB in the sand, and realized the detection of on-site and large-scale area and the location of buried 1,3-DNB under the soil. The study provided a novel transcription factor-based bacterial biosensor and a complete system (China Earth Eye, CEE) for sensitive detection of 1,3-DNB. The good performance of this biosensor system can facilitate the development of accurate, on-site, and high-efficient exploration of explosives in real extensive minefields. Moreover, this 1,3-DNB biosensor can be complementary to the 2,4-DNT biosensor reported before, demonstrating its potential applications in military situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaobao Wang
- Energy-rich Compound Production by Photosynthetic Carbon Fixation Research Center, Shandong Key Lab of Applied Mycology, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, PR China
| | - Ran Ma
- Energy-rich Compound Production by Photosynthetic Carbon Fixation Research Center, Shandong Key Lab of Applied Mycology, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, PR China
| | - Bingjing Chen
- Energy-rich Compound Production by Photosynthetic Carbon Fixation Research Center, Shandong Key Lab of Applied Mycology, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, PR China
| | - Xiaotong Yu
- Energy-rich Compound Production by Photosynthetic Carbon Fixation Research Center, Shandong Key Lab of Applied Mycology, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, PR China
| | - Xue Wang
- Energy-rich Compound Production by Photosynthetic Carbon Fixation Research Center, Shandong Key Lab of Applied Mycology, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, PR China
| | - Xinyun Zuo
- Energy-rich Compound Production by Photosynthetic Carbon Fixation Research Center, Shandong Key Lab of Applied Mycology, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, PR China
| | - Bo Liang
- Energy-rich Compound Production by Photosynthetic Carbon Fixation Research Center, Shandong Key Lab of Applied Mycology, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, PR China.
| | - Jianming Yang
- Energy-rich Compound Production by Photosynthetic Carbon Fixation Research Center, Shandong Key Lab of Applied Mycology, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, PR China.
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4
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Li M, Lv S, Yang R, Chu X, Wang X, Wang Z, Peng L, Yang J. Development of lycopene-based whole-cell biosensors for the visual detection of trace explosives and heavy metals. Anal Chim Acta 2023; 1283:341934. [PMID: 37977799 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2023.341934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Residual explosives in conflicting zones have caused irreversible damage to human safety and the environment. Whole-cell biosensors can to detect remnants of buried explosives, such as 2,4-dinitrotoluene (DNT), a stable and highly volatile compound in explosives. However, all the reported whole-cell biosensors utilize fluorescence or luminescence as the biological markers, making their detection difficult in real minefields. Here, we presented a lycopene-based whole-cell biosensor in Escherichia coli to output visible signals in response to DNT, which can help in the visual detection of buried explosives. To construct the whole-cell biosensor, the DNT-responsive promoter yqjF was used as the sensing element, and the lycopene synthetic gene cassette crtEBI was served as the reporting element. Then, the metabolic flux for lycopene production was enhanced to improve the output signal of the whole-cell biosensor, and a terminator was utilized to reduce the background interference. The optimized biosensor LSZ05 could perceive at least 1 mg/L DNT. The DNT-specificity and robust performance of the biosensor under different environmental factors were confirmed. Our results showed that converting the biosensor into a lyophilized powder was an effective storage method. The biosensor LSZ05 could effectively detect DNT in two kinds of soil samples. The lycopene-based whole-cell biosensor could also be used to visually detect heavy metals. Our findings laid the foundation for visually detecting buried explosives in minefields, which was a valuable supplement to the reported biosensors. The methods used for optimizing the lycopene-based whole-cell biosensor, including the improvement of the output signal and reduction of background interference, were quite effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meijie Li
- Energy-rich Compound Production By Photosynthetic Carbon Fixation Research Center, Shandong Key Lab of Applied Mycology, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, No. 700 Changchen Road, Qingdao, 266109, PR China.
| | - Shuzhe Lv
- Energy-rich Compound Production By Photosynthetic Carbon Fixation Research Center, Shandong Key Lab of Applied Mycology, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, No. 700 Changchen Road, Qingdao, 266109, PR China.
| | - Rumeng Yang
- Energy-rich Compound Production By Photosynthetic Carbon Fixation Research Center, Shandong Key Lab of Applied Mycology, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, No. 700 Changchen Road, Qingdao, 266109, PR China.
| | - Xiaohan Chu
- Energy-rich Compound Production By Photosynthetic Carbon Fixation Research Center, Shandong Key Lab of Applied Mycology, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, No. 700 Changchen Road, Qingdao, 266109, PR China.
| | - Xu Wang
- Energy-rich Compound Production By Photosynthetic Carbon Fixation Research Center, Shandong Key Lab of Applied Mycology, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, No. 700 Changchen Road, Qingdao, 266109, PR China.
| | - Ziyu Wang
- Energy-rich Compound Production By Photosynthetic Carbon Fixation Research Center, Shandong Key Lab of Applied Mycology, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, No. 700 Changchen Road, Qingdao, 266109, PR China.
| | - Limin Peng
- Shandong TV University, Jinan, 250014, PR China.
| | - Jianming Yang
- Energy-rich Compound Production By Photosynthetic Carbon Fixation Research Center, Shandong Key Lab of Applied Mycology, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, No. 700 Changchen Road, Qingdao, 266109, PR China.
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5
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David L, Shpigel E, Levin I, Moshe S, Zimmerman L, Dadon-Simanowitz S, Shemer B, Levkovich SA, Larush L, Magdassi S, Belkin S. Performance upgrade of a microbial explosives' sensor strain by screening a high throughput saturation library of a transcriptional regulator. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2023; 21:4252-4260. [PMID: 37701016 PMCID: PMC10493890 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2023.08.017] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
We present a methodology for a high-throughput screening (HTS) of transcription factor libraries, based on bacterial cells and GFP fluorescence. The method is demonstrated on the Escherichia coli LysR-type transcriptional regulator YhaJ, a key element in 2,4-dinitrotuluene (DNT) detection by bacterial explosives' sensor strains. Enhancing the performance characteristics of the YhaJ transcription factor is essential for future standoff detection of buried landmines. However, conventional directed evolution methods for modifying YhaJ are limited in scope, due to the vast sequence space and the absence of efficient screening methods to select optimal transcription factor mutants. To overcome this limitation, we have constructed a focused saturation library of ca. 6.4 × 107 yhaJ variants, and have screened over 70 % of its sequence space using fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). Through this screening process, we have identified YhaJ mutants exhibiting superior fluorescence responses to DNT, which were then effectively transformed into a bioluminescence-based DNT detection system. The best modified DNT reporter strain demonstrated a 7-fold lower DNT detection threshold, a 45-fold increased signal intensity, and a 40 % shorter response time compared to the parental bioreporter. The FACS-based HTS approach presented here may hold a potential for future molecular enhancement of other sensing and catalytic bioreactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidor David
- Enzymit Ltd. 3 Pinhas Sapir St., Ness Ziona 7403626, Israel
| | - Etai Shpigel
- Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9190401, Israel
| | - Itay Levin
- Enzymit Ltd. 3 Pinhas Sapir St., Ness Ziona 7403626, Israel
| | - Shaked Moshe
- Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9190401, Israel
| | - Lior Zimmerman
- Enzymit Ltd. 3 Pinhas Sapir St., Ness Ziona 7403626, Israel
| | | | - Benjamin Shemer
- Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9190401, Israel
| | - Shon A. Levkovich
- George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Liraz Larush
- Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9190401, Israel
| | - Shlomo Magdassi
- Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9190401, Israel
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6
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Nasr MA, Martin VJJ, Kwan DH. Divergent directed evolution of a TetR-type repressor towards aromatic molecules. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:7675-7690. [PMID: 37377432 PMCID: PMC10415137 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Reprogramming cellular behaviour is one of the hallmarks of synthetic biology. To this end, prokaryotic allosteric transcription factors (aTF) have been repurposed as versatile tools for processing small molecule signals into cellular responses. Expanding the toolbox of aTFs that recognize new inducer molecules is of considerable interest in many applications. Here, we first establish a resorcinol responsive aTF-based biosensor in Escherichia coli using the TetR-family repressor RolR from Corynebacterium glutamicum. We then perform an iterative walk along the fitness landscape of RolR to identify new inducer specificities, namely catechol, methyl catechol, caffeic acid, protocatechuate, L-DOPA, and the tumour biomarker homovanillic acid. Finally, we demonstrate the versatility of these engineered aTFs by transplanting them into the model eukaryote Saccharomyces cerevisiae. This work provides a framework for efficient aTF engineering to expand ligand specificity towards novel molecules on laboratory timescales, which, more broadly, is invaluable across a wide range of applications such as protein and metabolic engineering, as well as point-of-care diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed A Nasr
- Centre for Applied Synthetic Biology, Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Biology, Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- PROTEO, Québec Network for Research on Protein Function, Structure, and Engineering, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Vincent J J Martin
- Centre for Applied Synthetic Biology, Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Biology, Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - David H Kwan
- Centre for Applied Synthetic Biology, Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Biology, Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- PROTEO, Québec Network for Research on Protein Function, Structure, and Engineering, Québec City, Québec, Canada
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7
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An B, Wang Y, Huang Y, Wang X, Liu Y, Xun D, Church GM, Dai Z, Yi X, Tang TC, Zhong C. Engineered Living Materials For Sustainability. Chem Rev 2023; 123:2349-2419. [PMID: 36512650 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances in synthetic biology and materials science have given rise to a new form of materials, namely engineered living materials (ELMs), which are composed of living matter or cell communities embedded in self-regenerating matrices of their own or artificial scaffolds. Like natural materials such as bone, wood, and skin, ELMs, which possess the functional capabilities of living organisms, can grow, self-organize, and self-repair when needed. They also spontaneously perform programmed biological functions upon sensing external cues. Currently, ELMs show promise for green energy production, bioremediation, disease treatment, and fabricating advanced smart materials. This review first introduces the dynamic features of natural living systems and their potential for developing novel materials. We then summarize the recent research progress on living materials and emerging design strategies from both synthetic biology and materials science perspectives. Finally, we discuss the positive impacts of living materials on promoting sustainability and key future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bolin An
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yanyi Wang
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yuanyuan Huang
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xinyu Wang
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yuzhu Liu
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Dongmin Xun
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - George M Church
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China.,Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston 02115, Massachusetts United States.,Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston 02115, Massachusetts United States
| | - Zhuojun Dai
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xiao Yi
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Tzu-Chieh Tang
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston 02115, Massachusetts United States.,Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston 02115, Massachusetts United States
| | - Chao Zhong
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
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8
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Dong X, Qi S, Khan IM, Sun Y, Zhang Y, Wang Z. Advances in riboswitch-based biosensor as food samples detection tool. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf 2023; 22:451-472. [PMID: 36511082 DOI: 10.1111/1541-4337.13077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Food safety has always been a hot issue of social concern, and biosensing has been widely used in the field of food safety detection. Compared with traditional aptamer-based biosensors, aptamer-based riboswitch biosensing represents higher precision and programmability. A riboswitch is an elegant example of controlling gene expression, where the target is coupled to the aptamer domain, resulting in a conformational change in the downstream expression domain and determining the signal output. Riboswitch-based biosensing can be extensively applied to the portable real-time detection of food samples. The numerous key features of riboswitch-based biosensing emphasize their sustainability, renewable, and testing, which promises to transform engineering applications in the field of food safety. This review covers recent developments in riboswitch-based biosensors. The brief history, definition, and modular design (regulatory mode, reporter, and expression platform) of riboswitch-based biosensors are explained for better insight into the design and construction. We summarize recent advances in various riboswitch-based biosensors involving theophylline, malachite green, tetracycline, neomycin, fluoride, thrombin, naringenin, ciprofloxacin, and paromomycin, aiming to provide general guidance for the design of riboswitch-based biosensors. Finally, the challenges and prospects are also summarized as a way forward stratagem and signs of progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoze Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Shuo Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Imran Mahmood Khan
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Yuhan Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Yin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Meat Processing of Sichuan, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhouping Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China.,School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Meat Processing of Sichuan, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China.,National Engineering Research Center for Functional Food, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China.,Collaborative innovation center of food safety and quality control in Jiangsu Province, Food, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
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9
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Tao M, Jin C, Lu H, Jin K, Yu L, Liu J, Zhang J, Zhu X, Wu Y. Living and Regenerative Material Encapsulating Self-Assembled Shewanella oneidensis-CdS Hybrids for Photocatalytic Biodegradation of Organic Dyes. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10122501. [PMID: 36557754 PMCID: PMC9781410 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10122501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Reductive biodegradation by microorganisms has been widely explored for detoxifying recalcitrant contaminants; however, the biodegradation capacity of microbes is limited by the energy level of the released electrons. Here, we developed a method to self-assemble Shewanella oneidensis-CdS nanoparticle hybrids with significantly improved reductive biodegradation capacity and constructed a living material by encapsulating the hybrids in hydrogels. The material confines the nano-bacteria hybrids and protects them from environmental stress, thus improving their recyclability and long-term stability (degradation capacity unhindered after 4 weeks). The developed living materials exhibited efficient photocatalytic biodegradation of various organic dyes including azo and nitroso dyes. This study highlights the feasibility and benefits of constructing self-assembled nano-bacteria hybrids for bioremediation and sets the stage for the development of novel living materials from nano-bacteria hybrids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyue Tao
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Chenyang Jin
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Hongfei Lu
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Kai Jin
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Lin Yu
- Medical School, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Jinliang Liu
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Xiaohui Zhu
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Correspondence: (X.Z.); (Y.W.)
| | - Yihan Wu
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Correspondence: (X.Z.); (Y.W.)
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10
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Chemla Y, Dorfan Y, Yannai A, Meng D, Cao P, Glaven S, Gordon DB, Elbaz J, Voigt CA. Parallel engineering of environmental bacteria and performance over years under jungle-simulated conditions. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0278471. [PMID: 36516154 PMCID: PMC9750038 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Engineered bacteria could perform many functions in the environment, for example, to remediate pollutants, deliver nutrients to crops or act as in-field biosensors. Model organisms can be unreliable in the field, but selecting an isolate from the thousands that naturally live there and genetically manipulating them to carry the desired function is a slow and uninformed process. Here, we demonstrate the parallel engineering of isolates from environmental samples by using the broad-host-range XPORT conjugation system (Bacillus subtilis mini-ICEBs1) to transfer a genetic payload to many isolates in parallel. Bacillus and Lysinibacillus species were obtained from seven soil and water samples from different locations in Israel. XPORT successfully transferred a genetic function (reporter expression) into 25 of these isolates. They were then screened to identify the best-performing chassis based on the expression level, doubling time, functional stability in soil, and environmentally-relevant traits of its closest annotated reference species, such as the ability to sporulate and temperature tolerance. From this library, we selected Bacillus frigoritolerans A3E1, re-introduced it to soil, and measured function and genetic stability in a contained environment that replicates jungle conditions. After 21 months of storage, the engineered bacteria were viable, could perform their function, and did not accumulate disruptive mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonatan Chemla
- Synthetic Biology Center, Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Yuval Dorfan
- Synthetic Biology Center, Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Adi Yannai
- School of Molecular Cell Biology & Biotechnology, Faculty of Life Science, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Dechuan Meng
- Synthetic Biology Center, Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Paul Cao
- The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Sarah Glaven
- Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - D. Benjamin Gordon
- Synthetic Biology Center, Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Johann Elbaz
- School of Molecular Cell Biology & Biotechnology, Faculty of Life Science, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Christopher A. Voigt
- Synthetic Biology Center, Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
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11
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Chitayat Levi L, Rippin I, Ben Tulila M, Galron R, Tuller T. Modulating Gene Expression within a Microbiome Based on Computational Models. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11091301. [PMID: 36138780 PMCID: PMC9495703 DOI: 10.3390/biology11091301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Development of computational biology methodologies has provided comprehensive understanding of the complexity of microbiomes, and the extensive ways in which they influence their environment. This has awakened a new research goal, aiming to not only understand the mechanisms in which microbiomes function, but to actively modulate and engineer them for various purposes. However, current microbiome engineering techniques are usually manually tailored for a specific system and neglect the different interactions between the new genetic information and the bacterial population, turning a blind eye to processes such as horizontal gene transfer, mutations, and other genetic alterations. In this work, we developed a generic computational method to automatically tune the expression of heterologous genes within a microbiome according to given preferences, to allow the functionality of the engineering process to propagate in longer periods of time. This goal was achieved by treating each part of the gene individually and considering long term fitness effects on the environment, providing computational and experimental evidence for this approach. Abstract Recent research in the field of bioinformatics and molecular biology has revealed the immense complexity and uniqueness of microbiomes, while also showcasing the impact of the symbiosis between a microbiome and its host or environment. A core property influencing this process is horizontal gene transfer between members of the bacterial community used to maintain genetic variation. The essential effect of this mechanism is the exposure of genetic information to a wide array of members of the community, creating an additional “layer” of information in the microbiome named the “plasmidome”. From an engineering perspective, introduction of genetic information to an environment must be facilitated into chosen species which will be able to carry out the desired effect instead of competing and inhibiting it. Moreover, this process of information transfer imposes concerns for the biosafety of genetic engineering of microbiomes as exposure of genetic information into unwanted hosts can have unprecedented ecological impacts. Current technologies are usually experimentally developed for a specific host/environment, and only deal with the transformation process itself at best, ignoring the impact of horizontal gene transfer and gene-microbiome interactions that occur over larger periods of time in uncontrolled environments. The goal of this research was to design new microbiome-specific versions of engineered genetic information, providing an additional layer of compatibility to existing engineering techniques. The engineering framework is entirely computational and is agnostic to the selected microbiome or gene by reducing the problem into the following set up: microbiome species can be defined as wanted or unwanted hosts of the modification. Then, every element related to gene expression (e.g., promoters, coding regions, etc.) and regulation is individually examined and engineered by novel algorithms to provide the defined expression preferences. Additionally, the synergistic effect of the combination of engineered gene blocks facilitates robustness to random mutations that might occur over time. This method has been validated using both computational and experimental tools, stemming from the research done in the iGEM 2021 competition, by the TAU group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyam Chitayat Levi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv 997801, Israel
| | - Ido Rippin
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv 997801, Israel
| | - Moran Ben Tulila
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv 997801, Israel
| | - Rotem Galron
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv 997801, Israel
| | - Tamir Tuller
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv 997801, Israel
- The Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv 997801, Israel
- Correspondence:
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12
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Abstract
The next robotics frontier will be led by biohybrids. Capable biohybrid robots require microfluidics to sustain, improve, and scale the architectural complexity of their core ingredient: biological tissues. Advances in microfluidics have already revolutionized disease modeling and drug development, and are positioned to impact regenerative medicine but have yet to apply to biohybrids. Fusing microfluidics with living materials will improve tissue perfusion and maturation, and enable precise patterning of sensing, processing, and control elements. This perspective suggests future developments in advanced biohybrids.
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13
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Wang Y, Liu Y, Li J, Chen Y, Liu S, Zhong C. Engineered living materials (ELMs) design: From function allocation to dynamic behavior modulation. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2022; 70:102188. [PMID: 35970133 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2022.102188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Natural materials possess many distinctive "living" attributes, such as self-growth, self-healing, environmental responsiveness, and evolvability, that are beyond the reach of many existing synthetic materials. The emerging field of engineered living materials (ELMs) takes inspiration from nature and harnesses engineered living systems to produce dynamic and responsive materials with genetically programmable functionalities. Here, we identify and review two main directions for the rational design of ELMs: first, engineering of living materials with enhanced performances by incorporating functional material modules, including engineered biological building blocks (proteins, polysaccharides, and nucleic acids) or well-defined artificial materials; second, engineering of smart ELMs that can sense and respond to their surroundings by programming dynamic cellular behaviors regulated via cell-cell or cell-environment interactions. We next discuss the strengths and challenges of current ELMs and conclude by providing a perspective of future directions in this promising area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyi Wang
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China; Cas Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China; Cas Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China; School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Jing Li
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China; Cas Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Yue Chen
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China; Cas Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Sizhe Liu
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China; Cas Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China; School of Biomedical Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Chao Zhong
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China; Cas Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
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14
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Pham HL, Ling H, Chang MW. Design and fabrication of field-deployable microbial biosensing devices. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2022; 76:102731. [DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2022.102731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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15
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Bioluminescence Sensing in 3D Spherical Microtissues for Multiple Bioactivity Analysis of Environmental Samples. SENSORS 2022; 22:s22124568. [PMID: 35746350 PMCID: PMC9229012 DOI: 10.3390/s22124568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The development of predictive in vitro sensing tools able to provide rapid information on the different bioactivities of a sample is of pivotal importance, not only to monitor environmental toxicants, but also to understand their mechanisms of action on diverse molecular pathways. This mechanistic understanding is highly important for the characterization of toxicological hazards, and for the risk assessment of chemicals and environmental samples such as surface waters and effluents. Prompted by this need, we developed and optimized a straightforward bioluminescent multiplexed assay which enables the measurement of four bioactivities, selected for their relevance from a toxicological perspective, in bioluminescent microtissues. The assay was developed to monitor inflammatory, antioxidant, and toxic activity, and the presence of heavy metals, and was successfully applied to the analysis of river water samples, showing potential applicability for environmental analyses. The assay, which does not require advanced equipment, can be easily implemented in general laboratories equipped with basic cell culture facilities and a luminometer.
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16
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Synthetic biology-powered microbial co-culture strategy and application of bacterial cellulose-based composite materials. Carbohydr Polym 2022; 283:119171. [DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2022.119171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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17
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Zhang Y, Zou ZP, Chen SY, Wei WP, Zhou Y, Ye BC. Design and optimization of E. coli artificial genetic circuits for detection of explosive composition 2,4-dinitrotoluene. Biosens Bioelectron 2022; 207:114205. [PMID: 35339074 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2022.114205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The detection of mine-based explosives poses a serious threat to the lives of deminers, and carcinogenic residues may cause severe environmental pollution. Whole-cell biosensors that can detect on-site in dangerous or inaccessible environments have great potential to replace conventional methods. Synthetic biology based on engineering modularity serves as a new tool that could be used to engineer microbes to acquire desired functions through artificial design and precise regulation. In this study, we designed artificial genetic circuits in Escherichia coli MG1655 by reconstructing the transcription factor YhaJ-based system to detect explosive composition 2,4-dinitrotoluene (2,4-DNT). These genetic circuits were optimized at the transcriptional, translational, and post-translational levels. The binding affinity of the transcription factor YhaJ with inducer 2,4-DNT metabolites was enhanced via directed evolution, and several activator binding sites were inserted in sensing yqjF promoter (PyqjF) to further improve the output level. The optimized biosensor PyqjF×2-TEV-(mYhaJ + GFP)-Ssr had a maximum induction ratio of 189 with green fluorescent signal output, and it could perceive at least 1 μg/mL 2,4-DNT. Its effective and robust performance was verified in different water samples. Our results demonstrate the use of synthetic biology tools to systematically optimize the performance of sensors for 2,4-DNT detection, that lay the foundation for practical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- Laboratory of Biosystems and Microanalysis, Institute of Engineering Biology and Health, State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China; School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering/Key Laboratory of Environmental Monitoring and Pollutant Control of Xinjiang Bingtuan, Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832003, China
| | - Zhen-Ping Zou
- Laboratory of Biosystems and Microanalysis, Institute of Engineering Biology and Health, State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Sheng-Yan Chen
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering/Key Laboratory of Environmental Monitoring and Pollutant Control of Xinjiang Bingtuan, Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832003, China
| | - Wen-Ping Wei
- Institute of Engineering Biology and Health, Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Laboratory of Biosystems and Microanalysis, Institute of Engineering Biology and Health, State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Bang-Ce Ye
- Laboratory of Biosystems and Microanalysis, Institute of Engineering Biology and Health, State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China; School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering/Key Laboratory of Environmental Monitoring and Pollutant Control of Xinjiang Bingtuan, Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832003, China; Institute of Engineering Biology and Health, Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, Zhejiang, China.
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18
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Shpigel E, Nathansohn S, Glozman A, Rosen R, Shemer B, Yagur‐Kroll S, Elad T, Belkin S. Introduction of quorum sensing elements into bacterial bioreporter circuits enhances explosives' detection capabilities. Eng Life Sci 2022; 22:308-318. [PMID: 35382532 PMCID: PMC8961053 DOI: 10.1002/elsc.202100134] [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: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
A possible solution for the standoff detection of buried landmines is based on the use of microbial bioreporters, genetically engineered to emit a remotely detectable optical signal in response to trace amounts of explosives' signature chemicals, mostly 2,4-dinitrotoluene (DNT). Previously developed DNT sensor strains were based on the fusion of a DNT-inducible gene promoter to a reporting element, either a fluorescent protein gene or a bacterial bioluminescence gene cassette. In the present study, a different approach was used: the DNT-inducible promoter activates, in Escherichia coli, the quorum-sensing luxI and luxR genes of Aliivibrio fischeri. N-Acyl homoserine lactone (AHL), synthesized by LuxI, combines with LuxR and activates the bioluminescence reporter genes. The resulting bioreporter displayed a dose-dependent luminescent signal in the presence of DNT. Performance of the sensor strain was further enhanced by manipulation of the sensing element (combining the E. coli DNT-inducible azoR and yqjF gene promoters), by replacing the luminescence gene cassette of Photorhabdus luminescens luxCDABE with A. fischeri luxCDABEG, and by introducing two mutations, eutE and ygdD, into the host strain. DNT detection sensitivity of the final bioreporter was over 340-fold higher than the original construct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etai Shpigel
- Department of Plant and Environmental SciencesThe Alexander Silberman Institute of Life SciencesThe Hebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
| | - Shiri Nathansohn
- Department of Plant and Environmental SciencesThe Alexander Silberman Institute of Life SciencesThe Hebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
| | - Anat Glozman
- Department of Plant and Environmental SciencesThe Alexander Silberman Institute of Life SciencesThe Hebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
| | - Rachel Rosen
- Department of Plant and Environmental SciencesThe Alexander Silberman Institute of Life SciencesThe Hebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
| | - Benjamin Shemer
- Department of Plant and Environmental SciencesThe Alexander Silberman Institute of Life SciencesThe Hebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
| | - Sharon Yagur‐Kroll
- Department of Plant and Environmental SciencesThe Alexander Silberman Institute of Life SciencesThe Hebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
| | - Tal Elad
- Department of Plant and Environmental SciencesThe Alexander Silberman Institute of Life SciencesThe Hebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
| | - Shimshon Belkin
- Department of Plant and Environmental SciencesThe Alexander Silberman Institute of Life SciencesThe Hebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
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19
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Elad T, Shemer B, Simanowitz S, Kabessa Y, Mizrachi Y, Gold A, Shpigel E, Agranat AJ, Belkin S. Enhancing DNT Detection by a Bacterial Bioreporter: Directed Evolution of the Transcriptional Activator YhaJ. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:821835. [PMID: 35237579 PMCID: PMC8882911 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.821835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Detection of buried landmines is a dangerous and complicated task that consumes large financial resources and poses significant risks to the personnel involved. A potential alternative to conventional detection methodologies is the use of microbial bioreporters, capable of emitting an optical signal upon exposure to explosives, thus revealing to a remote detector the location of buried explosive devices. We have previously reported the design, construction, and optimization of an Escherichia coli-based bioreporter for the detection of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) and its accompanying impurity 2,4-dinitrotoluene (DNT). Here we describe the further enhancement of this bioreporter by the directed evolution of YhaJ, the transcriptional activator of the yqjF gene promoter, the sensing element of the bioreporter's molecular circuit. This process resulted in a 37-fold reduction of the detection threshold, as well as significant enhancements to signal intensity and response time, rendering this sensor strain more suitable for detecting the minute concentrations of DNT in the soil above buried landmines. The capability of this enhanced bioreporter to detect DNT buried in sand is demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tal Elad
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Benjamin Shemer
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Shilat Simanowitz
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yossef Kabessa
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yosef Mizrachi
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Azriel Gold
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Etai Shpigel
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Aharon J. Agranat
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Shimshon Belkin
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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20
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Mudziwapasi R, Mufandaedza J, Jomane FN, Songwe F, Ndudzo A, Nyamusamba RP, Takombwa AR, Mahla MG, Pullen J, Mlambo SS, Mahuni C, Mufandaedza E, Shoko R. Unlocking the potential of synthetic biology for improving livelihoods in sub-Saharan Africa. ALL LIFE 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/26895293.2021.2014986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Reagan Mudziwapasi
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Lupane State University, Lupane, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Fortune N. Jomane
- Department of Animal Science and Rangeland Management, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Lupane State University, Lupane, Zimbabwe
| | - Fanuel Songwe
- Department of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Midlands State University, Gweru, Zimbabwe
| | - Abigarl Ndudzo
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Lupane State University, Lupane, Zimbabwe
| | - Rutendo P. Nyamusamba
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Lupane State University, Lupane, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Melinda G. Mahla
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Lupane State University, Lupane, Zimbabwe
| | - Jessica Pullen
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Lupane State University, Lupane, Zimbabwe
| | - Sibonani S. Mlambo
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Chinhoyi University of Technology, Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Edward Mufandaedza
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Lupane State University, Lupane, Zimbabwe
| | - Ryman Shoko
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Agriculture, Chinhoyi University of Technology, Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe
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21
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Lefferts MJ, Castell MR. Influence of soil type on chemiresistive detection of buried ANFO. Forensic Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forc.2022.100401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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22
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Belkin S, Wang B. Sense and sensibility: of synthetic biology and the redesign of bioreporter circuits. Microb Biotechnol 2022; 15:103-106. [PMID: 34689402 PMCID: PMC8719829 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.13955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shimshon Belkin
- Institute of Life Sciencesthe Hebrew University of JerusalemJerusalem9190401Israel
| | - Baojun Wang
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghEH9 3FFUK
- Hangzhou Innovation Center and College of Chemical and Biological EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhou311200China
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23
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Tsai ST, Cheng WJ, Zhang QX, Yeh YC. Gold-Specific Biosensor for Monitoring Wastewater Using Genetically Engineered Cupriavidus metallidurans CH34. ACS Synth Biol 2021; 10:3576-3582. [PMID: 34860511 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.1c00520] [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: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Transcription factor-based whole-cell biosensors have recently become promising alternatives to conventional analytical methods due to their advantage of simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and environmental friendliness. In this study, we used genetic engineering to develop a whole-cell biosensor based on the activation of promoters by CupR via interactions with gold ions, leading to the expression of reporter genes that yield output signals. Altering the promoter sequences was shown to significantly improve the performance of the biosensor strain in terms of gold-specificity. The detection sensitivity of our engineered strains was 42-fold higher than that of wild-type strains. The linear range of the purposed sensor was 125-1000 nM with a limit of detection at 46.5 nM. The effectiveness of the sensor strain was verified in wastewater samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ssu-Tzu Tsai
- Department of Chemistry, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei 116, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Jui Cheng
- Department of Chemistry, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei 116, Taiwan
| | - Qian-Xian Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei 116, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chun Yeh
- Department of Chemistry, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei 116, Taiwan
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24
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Wan X, Saltepe B, Yu L, Wang B. Programming living sensors for environment, health and biomanufacturing. Microb Biotechnol 2021; 14:2334-2342. [PMID: 33960658 PMCID: PMC8601174 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.13820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic biology offers new tools and capabilities of engineering cells with desired functions for example as new biosensing platforms leveraging engineered microbes. In the last two decades, bacterial cells have been programmed to sense and respond to various input cues for versatile purposes including environmental monitoring, disease diagnosis and adaptive biomanufacturing. Despite demonstrated proof-of-concept success in the laboratory, the real-world applications of microbial sensors have been restricted due to certain technical and societal limitations. Yet, most limitations can be addressed by new technological developments in synthetic biology such as circuit design, biocontainment and machine learning. Here, we summarize the latest advances in synthetic biology and discuss how they could accelerate the development, enhance the performance and address the present limitations of microbial sensors to facilitate their use in the field. We view that programmable living sensors are promising sensing platforms to achieve sustainable, affordable and easy-to-use on-site detection in diverse settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Wan
- Centre for Synthetic and Systems BiologySchool of Biological SciencesUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghEH9 3FFUK
- Hangzhou Innovation CenterZhejiang UniversityHangzhou311200China
| | - Behide Saltepe
- Centre for Synthetic and Systems BiologySchool of Biological SciencesUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghEH9 3FFUK
| | - Luyang Yu
- The Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Base for Engineering BiologyInternational CampusZhejiang UniversityHaining314400China
- College of Life SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310058China
| | - Baojun Wang
- Centre for Synthetic and Systems BiologySchool of Biological SciencesUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghEH9 3FFUK
- Hangzhou Innovation CenterZhejiang UniversityHangzhou311200China
- The Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Base for Engineering BiologyInternational CampusZhejiang UniversityHaining314400China
- College of Life SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310058China
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25
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Moraskie M, Roshid MHO, O'Connor G, Dikici E, Zingg JM, Deo S, Daunert S. Microbial whole-cell biosensors: Current applications, challenges, and future perspectives. Biosens Bioelectron 2021; 191:113359. [PMID: 34098470 PMCID: PMC8376793 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2021.113359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Microbial Whole-Cell Biosensors (MWCBs) have seen rapid development with the arrival of 21st century biological and technological capabilities. They consist of microbial species which produce, or limit the production of, a reporter protein in the presence of a target analyte. The quantifiable signal from the reporter protein can be used to determine the bioavailable levels of the target analyte in a variety of sample types at a significantly lower cost than most widely used and well-established analytical instrumentation. Furthermore, the versatile and robust nature of MWCBs shows great potential for their use in otherwise unavailable settings and environments. While MWCBs have been developed for use in biomedical, environmental, and agricultural monitoring, they still face various challenges before they can transition from the laboratory into industrialized settings like their enzyme-based counterparts. In this comprehensive and critical review, we describe the underlying working principles of MWCBs, highlight developments for their use in a variety of fields, detail challenges and current efforts to address them, and discuss exciting implementations of MWCBs helping redefine what is thought to be possible with this expeditiously evolving technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Moraskie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; The Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Biomedical Nanotechnology Institute - BioNIUM, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Md Harun Or Roshid
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; The Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Biomedical Nanotechnology Institute - BioNIUM, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33146, USA
| | - Gregory O'Connor
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; The Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Biomedical Nanotechnology Institute - BioNIUM, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Emre Dikici
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; The Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Biomedical Nanotechnology Institute - BioNIUM, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Jean-Marc Zingg
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; The Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Biomedical Nanotechnology Institute - BioNIUM, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Sapna Deo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; The Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Biomedical Nanotechnology Institute - BioNIUM, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Sylvia Daunert
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; The Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Biomedical Nanotechnology Institute - BioNIUM, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33146, USA; The Miami Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33146, USA; Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33146, USA.
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Lifshitz A, Shemer B, Hazan C, Shpigel E, Belkin S. A bacterial bioreporter for the detection of 1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazinane (RDX). Anal Bioanal Chem 2021; 414:5329-5336. [PMID: 34622323 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-021-03685-x] [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: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
We report the design, construction, and testing of Escherichia coli-based bioluminescent bioreporters for the detection of 1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazinane (RDX), one of the most prevalent military-grade explosives in use today. These sensor strains are based on a fusion between the promoter of either the hmp (nitric oxide dioxygenase) or the hcp (a high-affinity nitric oxide reductase) E. coli gene, to the microbial bioluminescence luxCDABEG gene cassette. Signal intensity was enhanced in ∆hmp and ∆hcp mutants, and detection sensitivity was improved when the two gene promoters were cloned in tandem. The Photobacterium leiognathi luxCDABEG reporter genes were superior to those of Aliivibrio fischeri in terms of signal intensity, but in most cases inferior in terms of detection sensitivity, due to a higher background signal. Both sensor strains were also induced by additional nitro-organic explosives, as well as by nitrate salts. Sensitive detection of RDX in a solid matrix (either LB agar or sand) was also demonstrated, with the bioreporters encapsulated in 1.5-mm calcium alginate beads. Lowest RDX concentration detected in sand was 1.67 mg/kg sand. The bioreporter strains described herein may serve as a basis for a standoff detection technology of RDX-based explosive devices, including buried landmines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Lifshitz
- Department of Plant & Environmental Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Benjamin Shemer
- Department of Plant & Environmental Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Carina Hazan
- Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Etai Shpigel
- Department of Plant & Environmental Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Shimshon Belkin
- Department of Plant & Environmental Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel.
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27
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Out-of-Phase Imaging after Optical Modulation (OPIOM) for Multiplexed Fluorescence Imaging Under Adverse Optical Conditions. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2350:191-227. [PMID: 34331287 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1593-5_13] [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: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Fluorescence imaging has become a powerful tool for observations in biology. Yet it has also encountered limitations to overcome optical interferences of ambient light, autofluorescence, and spectrally interfering fluorophores. In this account, we first examine the current approaches which address these limitations. Then we more specifically report on Out-of-Phase Imaging after Optical Modulation (OPIOM), which has proved attractive for highly selective multiplexed fluorescence imaging even under adverse optical conditions. After exposing the OPIOM principle, we detail the protocols for successful OPIOM implementation.
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28
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Gallup O, Ming H, Ellis T. Ten future challenges for synthetic biology. ENGINEERING BIOLOGY 2021; 5:51-59. [PMID: 36968258 PMCID: PMC9996719 DOI: 10.1049/enb2.12011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
After 2 decades of growth and success, synthetic biology has now become a mature field that is driving significant innovation in the bioeconomy and pushing the boundaries of the biomedical sciences and biotechnology. So what comes next? In this article, 10 technological advances are discussed that are expected and hoped to come from the next generation of research and investment in synthetic biology; from ambitious projects to make synthetic life, cell simulators and custom genomes, through to new methods of engineering biology that use automation, deep learning and control of evolution. The non-exhaustive list is meant to inspire those joining the field and looks forward to how synthetic biology may evolve over the coming decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Gallup
- Department of BioengineeringImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Hia Ming
- Department of BioengineeringImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Tom Ellis
- Department of BioengineeringImperial College LondonLondonUK
- Imperial College Centre for Synthetic BiologyImperial College LondonLondonUK
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29
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Burgos-Morales O, Gueye M, Lacombe L, Nowak C, Schmachtenberg R, Hörner M, Jerez-Longres C, Mohsenin H, Wagner H, Weber W. Synthetic biology as driver for the biologization of materials sciences. Mater Today Bio 2021; 11:100115. [PMID: 34195591 PMCID: PMC8237365 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2021.100115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Materials in nature have fascinating properties that serve as a continuous source of inspiration for materials scientists. Accordingly, bio-mimetic and bio-inspired approaches have yielded remarkable structural and functional materials for a plethora of applications. Despite these advances, many properties of natural materials remain challenging or yet impossible to incorporate into synthetic materials. Natural materials are produced by living cells, which sense and process environmental cues and conditions by means of signaling and genetic programs, thereby controlling the biosynthesis, remodeling, functionalization, or degradation of the natural material. In this context, synthetic biology offers unique opportunities in materials sciences by providing direct access to the rational engineering of how a cell senses and processes environmental information and translates them into the properties and functions of materials. Here, we identify and review two main directions by which synthetic biology can be harnessed to provide new impulses for the biologization of the materials sciences: first, the engineering of cells to produce precursors for the subsequent synthesis of materials. This includes materials that are otherwise produced from petrochemical resources, but also materials where the bio-produced substances contribute unique properties and functions not existing in traditional materials. Second, engineered living materials that are formed or assembled by cells or in which cells contribute specific functions while remaining an integral part of the living composite material. We finally provide a perspective of future scientific directions of this promising area of research and discuss science policy that would be required to support research and development in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- O. Burgos-Morales
- École Supérieure de Biotechnologie de Strasbourg - ESBS, University of Strasbourg, Illkirch, 67412, France
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
| | - M. Gueye
- École Supérieure de Biotechnologie de Strasbourg - ESBS, University of Strasbourg, Illkirch, 67412, France
| | - L. Lacombe
- École Supérieure de Biotechnologie de Strasbourg - ESBS, University of Strasbourg, Illkirch, 67412, France
| | - C. Nowak
- École Supérieure de Biotechnologie de Strasbourg - ESBS, University of Strasbourg, Illkirch, 67412, France
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
| | - R. Schmachtenberg
- École Supérieure de Biotechnologie de Strasbourg - ESBS, University of Strasbourg, Illkirch, 67412, France
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
| | - M. Hörner
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
| | - C. Jerez-Longres
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
- Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine - SGBM, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
| | - H. Mohsenin
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
| | - H.J. Wagner
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering - D-BSSE, ETH Zurich, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
| | - W. Weber
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
- Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine - SGBM, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
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30
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Bacterial bioreporters for the detection of trace explosives: performance enhancement by DNA shuffling and random mutagenesis. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2021; 105:4329-4337. [PMID: 33942130 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-021-11290-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Landmines and other explosive remnants of war pose a global humanitarian problem that claims numerous casualties long after the conflict has ended. As there are no acceptable methodologies for the remote discovery of such devices, current detection practices still require the risky presence of personnel in the minefield. We have recently described bacterial sensor strains capable of reporting the existence of 2,4-dinitrotoluene (DNT) vapors in the soil above 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT)-based landmines, by generating a bioluminescent or a fluorescent signal. This may allow the identification of landmine location by remote imaging of an area over which the bacteria have been spread. In the study reported herein, we have improved the DNT-detection capabilities of these sensor strains by combining two DNT-responsive Escherichia coli gene promoters, yqjF and azoR, and subjecting them to three cycles of random mutagenesis by error-prone PCR, combined with segmentation and rearrangement ("DNA shuffling"). The activity of selected modified promoters was evaluated with the Aliivibrio fischeri and Photobacterium leiognathi luxCDABEG gene cassettes as the bioluminescent reporters, exhibiting a ten-fold background reduction that has led to a three-fold decrease in detection threshold. Signal intensity was further enhanced by modifying the ribosomal binding site of the yqjF gene promoter. The superior DNT detection capabilities on a solid matrix by the improved sensor strain were demonstrated. KEY POINTS: • Performance of microbial sensor strains for buried explosives was molecularly enhanced. • Manipulations included random mutagenesis, "DNA shuffling," and RBS reprogramming. • The re-engineered constructs exhibited superior detection of trace explosives.
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Agranat AJ, Kabessa Y, Shemer B, Shpigel E, Schwartsglass O, Atamneh L, Uziel Y, Ejzenberg M, Mizrachi Y, Garcia Y, Perepelitsa G, Belkin S. An autonomous bioluminescent bacterial biosensor module for outdoor sensor networks, and its application for the detection of buried explosives. Biosens Bioelectron 2021; 185:113253. [PMID: 33930754 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2021.113253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We describe a miniaturized field-deployable biosensor module, designed to function as an element in a sensor network for standoff monitoring and mapping of environmental hazards. The module harbors live bacterial sensor cells, genetically engineered to emit a bioluminescent signal in the presence of preselected target materials, which act as its core sensing elements. The module, which detects and processes the biological signal, composes a digital record that describes its findings, and can be transmitted to a remote receiver. The module is an autonomous self-contained unit that can function either as a standalone sensor, or as a node in a sensor network. The biosensor module can potentially be used for detecting any target material to which the sensor cells were engineered to respond. The module described herein was constructed to detect the presence of buried landmines underneath its footprint. The demonstrated detection sensitivity was 0.25 mg 2,4-dinitrotoluene per Kg soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aharon J Agranat
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Yossef Kabessa
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel.
| | - Benjamin Shemer
- Department of Plant & Environmental Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Etai Shpigel
- Department of Plant & Environmental Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Offer Schwartsglass
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Loay Atamneh
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Yonatan Uziel
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Meir Ejzenberg
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Yosef Mizrachi
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Yehudit Garcia
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Galina Perepelitsa
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Shimshon Belkin
- Department of Plant & Environmental Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
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32
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Tang TC, Tham E, Liu X, Yehl K, Rovner AJ, Yuk H, de la Fuente-Nunez C, Isaacs FJ, Zhao X, Lu TK. Hydrogel-based biocontainment of bacteria for continuous sensing and computation. Nat Chem Biol 2021; 17:724-731. [PMID: 33820990 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-021-00779-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Genetically modified microorganisms (GMMs) can enable a wide range of important applications including environmental sensing and responsive engineered living materials. However, containment of GMMs to prevent environmental escape and satisfy regulatory requirements is a bottleneck for real-world use. While current biochemical strategies restrict unwanted growth of GMMs in the environment, there is a need for deployable physical containment technologies to achieve redundant, multi-layered and robust containment. We developed a hydrogel-based encapsulation system that incorporates a biocompatible multilayer tough shell and an alginate-based core. This deployable physical containment strategy (DEPCOS) allows no detectable GMM escape, bacteria to be protected against environmental insults including antibiotics and low pH, controllable lifespan and easy retrieval of genomically recoded bacteria. To highlight the versatility of DEPCOS, we demonstrated that robustly encapsulated cells can execute useful functions, including performing cell-cell communication with other encapsulated bacteria and sensing heavy metals in water samples from the Charles River.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzu-Chieh Tang
- Synthetic Biology Group, Research Laboratory of Electronics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA. .,Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA. .,The Mediated Matter Group, Media Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Eléonore Tham
- Synthetic Biology Group, Research Laboratory of Electronics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.,Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Xinyue Liu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Kevin Yehl
- Synthetic Biology Group, Research Laboratory of Electronics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.,Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA
| | - Alexis J Rovner
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hyunwoo Yuk
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Cesar de la Fuente-Nunez
- Machine Biology Group, Departments of Psychiatry and Microbiology, Institute for Biomedical Informatics, Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Departments of Bioengineering and Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Penn Institute for Computational Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Farren J Isaacs
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.,Systems Biology Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Xuanhe Zhao
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA. .,Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Timothy K Lu
- Synthetic Biology Group, Research Laboratory of Electronics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA. .,Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA. .,Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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33
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Genetic circuits combined with machine learning provides fast responding living sensors. Biosens Bioelectron 2021; 178:113028. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2021.113028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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34
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Dhyani R, Shankar K, Bhatt A, Jain S, Hussain A, Navani NK. Homogentisic Acid-Based Whole-Cell Biosensor for Detection of Alkaptonuria Disease. Anal Chem 2021; 93:4521-4527. [PMID: 33655752 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.0c04914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Clinicians require simple quantitative tools for the detection of homogentisic acid in alkaptonuria patients, a rare inherited disorder of amino acid metabolism. In this study, we report a whole-cell biosensor for homogentisic acid to detect alkaptonuria disease through the expression of green fluorescence protein. The assay system utilizes a promoter sequence (hmgA) isolated from the Pseudomonas aeruginosa genome. To increase the sensitivity, the sensor module harboring phmgA::GFP was further transformed into various transposon mutants debilitated in steps involved in the metabolism of phenylalanine and tyrosine via homogentisic acid as a central intermediate. The proposed biosensor was further checked for analytical features such as sensitivity, selectivity, linearity, and precision for the quantification of homogentisic acid in spiked urine samples. The limit of detection for the developed biosensor was calculated to be 3.9 μM, which is comparable to that of the various analytical techniques currently in use. The sensor construct showed no interference from all of the amino acids and its homolog molecules. The accuracy and precision of the proposed biosensor were validated using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with satisfactory results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajat Dhyani
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Krishna Shankar
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Ankita Bhatt
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Shubham Jain
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Ajmal Hussain
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Naveen Kumar Navani
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee 247667, Uttarakhand, India
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35
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Brooks SM, Alper HS. Applications, challenges, and needs for employing synthetic biology beyond the lab. Nat Commun 2021; 12:1390. [PMID: 33654085 PMCID: PMC7925609 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-21740-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic biology holds great promise for addressing global needs. However, most current developments are not immediately translatable to 'outside-the-lab' scenarios that differ from controlled laboratory settings. Challenges include enabling long-term storage stability as well as operating in resource-limited and off-the-grid scenarios using autonomous function. Here we analyze recent advances in developing synthetic biological platforms for outside-the-lab scenarios with a focus on three major application spaces: bioproduction, biosensing, and closed-loop therapeutic and probiotic delivery. Across the Perspective, we highlight recent advances, areas for further development, possibilities for future applications, and the needs for innovation at the interface of other disciplines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sierra M Brooks
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Hal S Alper
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
- Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
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36
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Shemer B, Shpigel E, Hazan C, Kabessa Y, Agranat AJ, Belkin S. Detection of buried explosives with immobilized bacterial bioreporters. Microb Biotechnol 2021; 14:251-261. [PMID: 33095504 PMCID: PMC7888469 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.13683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The unchecked dispersal of antipersonnel landmines since the late 19th century has resulted in large areas contaminated with these explosive devices, creating a substantial worldwide humanitarian safety risk. The main obstacle to safe and effective landmine removal is the identification of their exact location, an activity that currently requires entry of personnel into the minefields; to date, there is no commercialized technology for an efficient stand-off detection of buried landmines. In this article, we describe the optimization of a microbial sensor strain, genetically engineered for the remote detection of 2,4,6-trinitrotoloune (TNT)-based mines. This bioreporter, designed to bioluminescence in response to minute concentrations of either TNT or 2,4-dinitotoluene (DNT), was immobilized in hydrogel beads and optimized for dispersion over the minefield. Following modifications of the hydrogel matrix in which the sensor bacteria are encapsulated, as well as their genetic reporting elements, these sensor bacteria sensitively detected buried 2,4-dinitrotoluene in laboratory experiments. Encapsulated in 1.5 mm 2% alginate beads containing 1% polyacrylic acid, they also detected the location of a real metallic antipersonnel landmine under field conditions. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report demonstrating the detection of a buried landmine with a luminescent microbial bioreporter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Shemer
- Institute of Life SciencesThe Hebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
| | - Etai Shpigel
- Institute of Life SciencesThe Hebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
| | - Carina Hazan
- Institute of ChemistryThe Hebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
| | - Yossef Kabessa
- The Department of Applied PhysicsThe Hebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
| | - Aharon J. Agranat
- The Department of Applied PhysicsThe Hebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
| | - Shimshon Belkin
- Institute of Life SciencesThe Hebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
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37
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Voigt CA. Synthetic biology 2020-2030: six commercially-available products that are changing our world. Nat Commun 2020; 11:6379. [PMID: 33311504 PMCID: PMC7733420 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-20122-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic biology will transform how we grow food, what we eat, and where we source materials and medicines. Here I have selected six products that are now on the market, highlighting the underlying technologies and projecting forward to the future that can be expected over the next ten years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher A Voigt
- Synthetic Biology Center, Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Boston, USA.
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38
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Dey S, Baba SA, Bhatt A, Dhyani R, Navani NK. Transcription factor based whole-cell biosensor for specific and sensitive detection of sodium dodecyl sulfate. Biosens Bioelectron 2020; 170:112659. [PMID: 33035895 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2020.112659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Extensive use of Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS) in households, agricultural operations, and industries is leading to its subsequent disposal in waterways. There is an apprehension of the adverse effect of such detergents on various living organisms. Thus, an efficient, specific, and simple detection method to monitor SDS reliably in the environment is needed. We used sdsB1 activator protein and SDS-responsive promoter of sdsA1 gene along with Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) to construct a novel SDS biosensor in Pseudomonas aeruginosa chassis. The GFP intensity of the biosensor showed a linear relationship (R2 = 0.99) from 0.4 to 62.5 ppm of SDS with a detection limit of 0.1 ppm. This biosensor is highly specific for SDS and has minimal interference from other detergents, metals, and inorganic ions. The biosensor showed a satisfactory and reproducible recovery rate for the detection of SDS in real samples. Overall, this is a low cost, easy-to-use, selective, and reliable biosensor for monitoring SDS in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sourik Dey
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, 247667, India
| | - Shahnawaz Ahmad Baba
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, 247667, India
| | - Ankita Bhatt
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, 247667, India
| | - Rajat Dhyani
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, 247667, India
| | - Naveen Kumar Navani
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, 247667, India.
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39
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Kaushik S, Thungon PD, Goswami P. Silk Fibroin: An Emerging Biocompatible Material for Application of Enzymes and Whole Cells in Bioelectronics and Bioanalytical Sciences. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2020; 6:4337-4355. [PMID: 33455178 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.9b01971] [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] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Enzymes and whole cells serve as the active biological entities in a myriad of applications including bioprocesses, bioanalytics, and bioelectronics. Conserving the natural activity of these functional biological entities during their prolonged use is one of the major goals for validating their practical applications. Silk fibroin (SF) has emerged as a biocompatible material to interface with enzymes as well as whole cells. These biomaterials can be tailored both physically and chemically to create excellent scaffolds of different forms such as fibers, films, and powder for immobilization and stabilization of enzymes. The secondary structures of the SF-protein can be attuned to generate hydrophobic/hydrophilic pockets suitable to create the biocompatible microenvironments. The fibrous nature of the SF protein with a dominant hydrophobic property may also serve as an excellent support for promoting cellular adhesion and growth. This review compiles and discusses the recent literature on the application of SF as a biocompatible material at the interface of enzymes and cells in various fields, including the emerging area of bioelectronics and bioanalytical sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharbani Kaushik
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43201, United States
| | - Phurpa Dema Thungon
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
| | - Pranab Goswami
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
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40
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Jung JK, Alam KK, Verosloff MS, Capdevila DA, Desmau M, Clauer PR, Lee JW, Nguyen PQ, Pastén PA, Matiasek SJ, Gaillard JF, Giedroc DP, Collins JJ, Lucks JB. Cell-free biosensors for rapid detection of water contaminants. Nat Biotechnol 2020; 38:1451-1459. [PMID: 32632301 PMCID: PMC7718425 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-020-0571-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Lack of access to safe drinking water is a global problem, and methods to reliably and easily detect contaminants could be transformative. We report the development of a cell-free in vitro transcription system that uses RNA Output Sensors Activated by Ligand Induction (ROSALIND) to detect contaminants in water. A combination of highly processive RNA polymerases, allosteric protein transcription factors and synthetic DNA transcription templates regulates the synthesis of a fluorescence-activating RNA aptamer. The presence of a target contaminant induces the transcription of the aptamer, and a fluorescent signal is produced. We apply ROSALIND to detect a range of water contaminants, including antibiotics, small molecules and metals. We also show that adding RNA circuitry can invert responses, reduce crosstalk and improve sensitivity without protein engineering. The ROSALIND system can be freeze-dried for easy storage and distribution, and we apply it in the field to test municipal water supplies, demonstrating its potential use for monitoring water quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaeyoung K Jung
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.,Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.,Center for Water Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Khalid K Alam
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.,Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.,Center for Water Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Matthew S Verosloff
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.,Center for Water Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.,Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences Graduate Program, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | | | - Morgane Desmau
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Phillip R Clauer
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jeong Wook Lee
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, Republic of Korea
| | - Peter Q Nguyen
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Pablo A Pastén
- Departmento de Ingeniería Hidráulica y Ambiental, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Centro de Desarrollo Urbano Sustentable, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sandrine J Matiasek
- Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences, California State University, Chico, Chico, CA, USA.,Center for Water and the Environment, California State University, Chico, Chico, CA, USA
| | - Jean-François Gaillard
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - David P Giedroc
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - James J Collins
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.,Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA.,Institute for Medical Engineering & Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.,Synthetic Biology Center, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.,Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Julius B Lucks
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA. .,Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA. .,Center for Water Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA. .,Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences Graduate Program, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.
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41
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Shemer B, Shpigel E, Glozman A, Yagur-Kroll S, Kabessa Y, Agranat AJ, Belkin S. Genome-wide gene-deletion screening identifies mutations that significantly enhance explosives vapor detection by a microbial sensor. N Biotechnol 2020; 59:65-73. [PMID: 32622861 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbt.2020.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Revised: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Genetically engineered microbial biosensors, capable of detecting traces of explosives residues above buried military ordnance and emitting an optical signal in response, may potentially serve for the standoff detection of buried landmines. A promising candidate for such an application is a previously reported Escherichia coli-based reporter strain that employs the yqjF gene promoter as its sensing element; however, for this sensor to be able to detect actual landmines reliably, it was necessary for its detection sensitivity and signal intensity to be enhanced. In this study, a high-throughput approach was employed to screen the effects of individual gene deletions on yqjF activation by 2,4-dinitrotoluene (DNT). Several genes were identified, the deletion of which elicited a significant enhancement of yqjF induction by DNT. The most promising of these mutations were introduced into the sensor strain, individually or in pairs, yielding a considerable increase in signal intensity and a lowering of the detection threshold. A strain harboring two of the identified mutations, ygdD and eutE, appears to be the most sensitive microbial biosensor currently described for the detection of traces of landmine explosives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Shemer
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Etai Shpigel
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Anat Glozman
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Sharon Yagur-Kroll
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yosssef Kabessa
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Aharon J Agranat
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Shimshon Belkin
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel.
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42
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Kelemen Z, Zhang R, Gissot L, Chouket R, Bellec Y, Croquette V, Jullien L, Faure JD, Le Saux T. Dynamic Contrast for Plant Phenotyping. ACS OMEGA 2020; 5:15105-15114. [PMID: 32637783 PMCID: PMC7331089 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.0c00957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Noninvasiveness, minimal handling, and immediate response are favorable features of fluorescence readout for high-throughput phenotyping of labeled plants.Yet, remote fluorescence imaging may suffer from an autofluorescent background and artificial or natural ambient light. In this work, the latter limitations are overcome by adopting reversibly photoswitchable fluorescent proteins (RSFPs) as labels and Speed OPIOM (out-of-phase imaging after optical modulation), a fluorescence imaging protocol exploiting dynamic contrast. Speed OPIOM can efficiently distinguish the RSFP signal from autofluorescence and other spectrally interfering fluorescent reporters like GFP. It can quantitatively assess gene expressions, even when they are weak. It is as quantitative, sensitive, and robust in dark and bright light conditions. Eventually, it can be used to nondestructively record abiotic stress responses like water or iron limitations in real time at the level of individual plants and even of specific organs. Such Speed OPIOM validation could find numerous applications to identify plant lines in selection programs, design plants as environmental sensors, or ecologically monitor transgenic plants in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zsolt Kelemen
- Université
Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin, F-78000 Versailles, France
| | - Ruikang Zhang
- PASTEUR,
Département de chimie, École
normale supérieure, PSL University, SorbonneUniversité,
CNRS, 24, rue Lhomond, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Lionel Gissot
- Université
Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin, F-78000 Versailles, France
| | - Raja Chouket
- PASTEUR,
Département de chimie, École
normale supérieure, PSL University, SorbonneUniversité,
CNRS, 24, rue Lhomond, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Yannick Bellec
- Université
Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin, F-78000 Versailles, France
| | - Vincent Croquette
- Laboratoire
de Physique Statistique, École normale
supérieure, PSL Research University, Université de Paris,
Sorbonne Université, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France
- Institut
de biologie de l’École normale supérieure (IBENS), École normale supérieure, CNRS, INSERM,
PSL Research University, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Ludovic Jullien
- PASTEUR,
Département de chimie, École
normale supérieure, PSL University, SorbonneUniversité,
CNRS, 24, rue Lhomond, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Jean-Denis Faure
- Université
Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin, F-78000 Versailles, France
| | - Thomas Le Saux
- PASTEUR,
Département de chimie, École
normale supérieure, PSL University, SorbonneUniversité,
CNRS, 24, rue Lhomond, 75005 Paris, France
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43
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Phonbuppha J, Tinikul R, Wongnate T, Intasian P, Hollmann F, Paul CE, Chaiyen P. A Minimized Chemoenzymatic Cascade for Bacterial Luciferase in Bioreporter Applications. Chembiochem 2020; 21:2073-2079. [PMID: 32187433 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202000100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Bacterial luciferase (Lux) catalyzes a bioluminescence reaction by using long-chain aldehyde, reduced flavin and molecular oxygen as substrates. The reaction can be applied in reporter gene systems for biomolecular detection in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. Because reduced flavin is unstable under aerobic conditions, another enzyme, flavin reductase, is needed to supply reduced flavin to the Lux-catalyzed reaction. To create a minimized cascade for Lux that would have greater ease of use, a chemoenzymatic reaction with a biomimetic nicotinamide (BNAH) was used in place of the flavin reductase reaction in the Lux system. The results showed that the minimized cascade reaction can be applied to monitor bioluminescence of the Lux reporter in eukaryotic cells effectively, and that it can achieve higher efficiencies than the system with flavin reductase. This development is useful for future applications as high-throughput detection tools for drug screening applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jittima Phonbuppha
- School of Biomolecular Science and Engineering (BSE), Vidyasirimedhi Institute of Science and Technology (VISTEC), 555 Moo 1, Payupnai, Wangchan, Rayong, 21210, Thailand
| | - Ruchanok Tinikul
- Department of Biochemistry and Center for Excellence in Protein and Enzyme Technology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, 272 Rama VI Road, Ratchathewi, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Thanyaporn Wongnate
- School of Biomolecular Science and Engineering (BSE), Vidyasirimedhi Institute of Science and Technology (VISTEC), 555 Moo 1, Payupnai, Wangchan, Rayong, 21210, Thailand
| | - Pattarawan Intasian
- School of Biomolecular Science and Engineering (BSE), Vidyasirimedhi Institute of Science and Technology (VISTEC), 555 Moo 1, Payupnai, Wangchan, Rayong, 21210, Thailand
| | - Frank Hollmann
- Department of Biotechnology, Delft University of Technology, Van der Maasweg 9, 2629 HZ, Delft (The, Netherlands
| | - Caroline E Paul
- Department of Biotechnology, Delft University of Technology, Van der Maasweg 9, 2629 HZ, Delft (The, Netherlands
| | - Pimchai Chaiyen
- School of Biomolecular Science and Engineering (BSE), Vidyasirimedhi Institute of Science and Technology (VISTEC), 555 Moo 1, Payupnai, Wangchan, Rayong, 21210, Thailand.,Department of Biochemistry and Center for Excellence in Protein and Enzyme Technology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, 272 Rama VI Road, Ratchathewi, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
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44
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Bittihn P, Didovyk A, Tsimring LS, Hasty J. Genetically engineered control of phenotypic structure in microbial colonies. Nat Microbiol 2020; 5:697-705. [PMID: 32284568 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-020-0686-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Rapid advances in cellular engineering1,2 have positioned synthetic biology to address therapeutic3,4 and industrial5 problems, but a substantial obstacle is the myriad of unanticipated cellular responses in heterogeneous real-world environments such as the gut6,7, solid tumours8,9, bioreactors10 or soil11. Complex interactions between the environment and cells often arise through non-uniform nutrient availability, which generates bidirectional coupling as cells both adjust to and modify their local environment through phenotypic differentiation12,13. Although synthetic spatial gene expression patterns14-17 have been explored under homogeneous conditions, the mutual interaction of gene circuits, growth phenotype and the environment remains a challenge. Here, we design gene circuits that sense and control phenotypic structure in microcolonies containing both growing and dormant bacteria. We implement structure modulation by coupling different downstream modules to a tunable sensor that leverages Escherichia coli's stress response and is activated on growth arrest. One is an actuator module that slows growth and thereby alters nutrient gradients. Environmental feedback in this circuit generates robust cycling between growth and dormancy in the interior of the colony, as predicted by a spatiotemporal computational model. We also use the sensor to drive an inducible gating module for selective gene expression in non-dividing cells, which allows us to radically alter population structure by eliminating the dormant phenotype with a 'stress-gated lysis circuit'. Our results establish a strategy to leverage and control microbial colony structure for synthetic biology applications in complex environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Bittihn
- BioCircuits Institute, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.,The San Diego Center for Systems Biology, La Jolla, CA, USA.,Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Andriy Didovyk
- BioCircuits Institute, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.,Vertex Pharmaceuticals, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Lev S Tsimring
- BioCircuits Institute, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA. .,The San Diego Center for Systems Biology, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| | - Jeff Hasty
- BioCircuits Institute, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA. .,The San Diego Center for Systems Biology, La Jolla, CA, USA. .,Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA. .,Molecular Biology Section, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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45
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Bae JW, Seo HB, Belkin S, Gu MB. An optical detection module-based biosensor using fortified bacterial beads for soil toxicity assessment. Anal Bioanal Chem 2020; 412:3373-3381. [DOI: 10.1007/s00216-020-02469-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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46
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Liu X, Silverman AD, Alam KK, Iverson E, Lucks JB, Jewett MC, Raman S. Design of a Transcriptional Biosensor for the Portable, On-Demand Detection of Cyanuric Acid. ACS Synth Biol 2020; 9:84-94. [PMID: 31825601 PMCID: PMC7372534 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.9b00348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Rapid molecular biosensing is an emerging application area for synthetic biology. Here, we engineer a portable biosensor for cyanuric acid (CYA), an analyte of interest for human and environmental health, using a LysR-type transcription regulator (LTTR) from Pseudomonas within the context of Escherichia coli gene expression machinery. To overcome cross-host portability challenges of LTTRs, we rationally engineered hybrid Pseudomonas-E. coli promoters by integrating DNA elements required for transcriptional activity and ligand-dependent regulation from both hosts, which enabled E. coli to function as a whole-cell biosensor for CYA. To alleviate challenges of whole-cell biosensing, we adapted these promoter designs to function within a freeze-dried E. coli cell-free system to sense CYA. This portable, on-demand system robustly detects CYA within an hour from laboratory and real-world samples and works with both fluorescent and colorimetric reporters. This work elucidates general principles to facilitate the engineering of a wider array of LTTR-based environmental sensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyang Liu
- Biophysics Graduate Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Adam D. Silverman
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Center for Water Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Khalid K. Alam
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Center for Water Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Erik Iverson
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Julius B. Lucks
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Center for Water Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Michael C. Jewett
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Srivatsan Raman
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
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47
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Thavarajah W, Verosloff MS, Jung JK, Alam KK, Miller JD, Jewett MC, Young SL, Lucks JB. A Primer on Emerging Field-Deployable Synthetic Biology Tools for Global Water Quality Monitoring. NPJ CLEAN WATER 2020; 3:18. [PMID: 34267944 PMCID: PMC8279131 DOI: 10.1038/s41545-020-0064-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Tracking progress towards Target 6.1 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, "achieving universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all", necessitates the development of simple, inexpensive tools to monitor water quality. The rapidly growing field of synthetic biology has the potential to address this need by taking DNA-encoded sensing elements from nature and reassembling them to create field-deployable 'biosensors' that can detect pathogenic or chemical water contaminants. Here we describe water quality monitoring strategies enabled by synthetic biology and compare them to previous approaches used to detect three priority water contaminants: fecal pathogens, arsenic, and fluoride in order to explain the potential for engineered biosensors to simplify and decentralize water quality monitoring. We also briefly discuss expanding biosensors to detect emerging contaminants including metals and pharmaceuticals. We conclude with an outlook on the future of biosensor development, in which we discuss adaptability to emerging contaminants, outline current limitations, and propose steps to overcome the field's outstanding challenges to facilitate global water quality monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter Thavarajah
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, 2145, Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Center for Water Research, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Center for Engineering, Sustainability and Resilience, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Matthew S. Verosloff
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Center for Water Research, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Center for Engineering, Sustainability and Resilience, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences Graduate Program, Northwestern University, 2204 Tech Drive, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Jaeyoung K. Jung
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, 2145, Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Center for Water Research, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Center for Engineering, Sustainability and Resilience, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Khalid K. Alam
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, 2145, Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Center for Water Research, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Center for Engineering, Sustainability and Resilience, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Joshua D. Miller
- Center for Water Research, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Department of Anthropology, Northwestern University, 1810 Hinman Ave., Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Michael C. Jewett
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, 2145, Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Sera L. Young
- Center for Water Research, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Department of Anthropology, Northwestern University, 1810 Hinman Ave., Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Institute for Policy Research, Northwestern University, 2040 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208 USA
- To whom correspondence should be addressed, ,
| | - Julius B. Lucks
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, 2145, Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Center for Water Research, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Center for Engineering, Sustainability and Resilience, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- To whom correspondence should be addressed, ,
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48
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Lopreside A, Wan X, Michelini E, Roda A, Wang B. Comprehensive Profiling of Diverse Genetic Reporters with Application to Whole-Cell and Cell-Free Biosensors. Anal Chem 2019; 91:15284-15292. [PMID: 31690077 PMCID: PMC6899433 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.9b04444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Whole-cell
and cell-free transcription-translation biosensors have
recently become favorable alternatives to conventional detection methods,
as they are cost-effective, environmental friendly, and easy to use.
Importantly, the biological responses from the biosensors need to
be converted into a physicochemical signal for easy detection, and
a variety of genetic reporters have been employed for this purpose.
Reporter gene selection is vital to a sensor performance and application
success. However, it was largely based on trial and error with very
few systematic side-by-side investigations reported. To address this
bottleneck, here we compared eight reporters from three reporter categories,
i.e., fluorescent (gfpmut3, deGFP, mCherry, mScarlet-I), colorimetric
(lacZ), and bioluminescent (luxCDABE from Aliivibrio fischeri and Photorhabdus
luminescens, NanoLuc) reporters, under the
control of two representative biosensors for mercury- and quorum-sensing
molecules. Both whole-cell and cell-free formats were investigated
to assess key sensing features including limit of detection (LOD),
input and output dynamic ranges, response time, and output visibility.
For both whole-cell biosensors, the lowest detectable concentration
of analytes and the fastest responses were achieved with NanoLuc.
Notably, we developed, to date, the most sensitive whole-cell mercury
biosensor using NanoLuc as reporter, with an LOD ≤ 50.0 fM
HgCl2 30 min postinduction. For cell-free biosensors, overall, NanoLuc and deGFP led to shorter response
time and lower LOD than the others. This comprehensive profile of
diverse reporters in a single setting provides a new important benchmark
for reporter selection, aiding the rapid development of whole-cell
and cell-free biosensors for various applications in the environment
and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Lopreside
- Department of Chemistry "G. Ciamician", Alma Mater Studiorum , University of Bologna , 40126 Bologna , Italy
| | | | - Elisa Michelini
- Department of Chemistry "G. Ciamician", Alma Mater Studiorum , University of Bologna , 40126 Bologna , Italy
| | - Aldo Roda
- Department of Chemistry "G. Ciamician", Alma Mater Studiorum , University of Bologna , 40126 Bologna , Italy
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49
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Lee K, Choi S, Kim C, Kang WS, Son W, Bae SC, Oh JW, Lee SK, Cha C. Implementation of Combinatorial Genetic and Microenvironmental Engineering to Microbial-Based Field-Deployable Microbead Biosensors for Highly Sensitive and Remote Chemical Detection. ACS Sens 2019; 4:2716-2723. [PMID: 31512857 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.9b01183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Bioreporters, microbial species genetically engineered to provide measurable signals in response to specific chemicals, have been widely investigated as sensors for biomedical and environmental monitoring. More specifically, the bioreporter encapsulated within a biocompatible material, such as a hydrogel that can provide a suitable microenvironment for its prolonged activity as well as efficient scalable production, has been viewed as a more broadly applicable mode of biosensors. In this study, alginate-based microbeads encapsulated with the bacterial bioreporter capable of expressing green fluorescence protein in response to nitro compounds (e.g., trinitrotoluene and dinitrotoluene) are developed as biosensors. To significantly enhance the sensitivity of the microbial-based microbead biosensors, "multifaceted" modification strategies are simultaneously employed: (1) multiple genetic modifications of the bioreporter, (2) tuning the physicomechanical properties of the encapsulating microbeads, (3) controlling the initial cell density within the microbeads, and (4) enrichment of nitro compounds inside microbeads via functional nanomaterials. These microbial and microenvironmental engineering approaches combine to significantly enhance the sensing capability, even allowing highly sensitive remote detection under a low-vapor phase. Thus, the strategy developed herein is expected to contribute to various cell-based biosensors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Chuntae Kim
- Department of Nano Fusion Technology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
| | | | | | | | - Jin-Woo Oh
- Department of Nano Fusion Technology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
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Liu R, Li Z, Huang Z, Li K, Lv Y. Biosensors for explosives: State of art and future trends. Trends Analyt Chem 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2019.05.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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