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Deng X, Peng D, Yao Y, Huang K, Wang J, Ma Z, Fu J, Xu Y. Optogenetic therapeutic strategies for diabetes mellitus. J Diabetes 2024; 16:e13557. [PMID: 38751366 PMCID: PMC11096815 DOI: 10.1111/1753-0407.13557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common chronic disease affecting humans globally. It is characterized by abnormally elevated blood glucose levels due to the failure of insulin production or reduction of insulin sensitivity and functionality. Insulin and glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 replenishment or improvement of insulin resistance are the two major strategies to treat diabetes. Recently, optogenetics that uses genetically encoded light-sensitive proteins to precisely control cell functions has been regarded as a novel therapeutic strategy for diabetes. Here, we summarize the latest development of optogenetics and its integration with synthetic biology approaches to produce light-responsive cells for insulin/GLP-1 production, amelioration of insulin resistance and neuromodulation of insulin secretion. In addition, we introduce the development of cell encapsulation and delivery methods and smart bioelectronic devices for the in vivo application of optogenetics-based cell therapy in diabetes. The remaining challenges for optogenetics-based cell therapy in the clinical translational study are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Deng
- Department of EndocrinologyChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child HealthHangzhouChina
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, MOE Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardio‐Cerebral Vascular Detection Technology and Medicinal Effectiveness Appraisal, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Clinical Evaluation and Translational ResearchZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Dandan Peng
- Department of EndocrinologyChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child HealthHangzhouChina
| | - Yuanfa Yao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, MOE Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardio‐Cerebral Vascular Detection Technology and Medicinal Effectiveness Appraisal, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Clinical Evaluation and Translational ResearchZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Ke Huang
- Department of EndocrinologyChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child HealthHangzhouChina
| | - Jinling Wang
- Department of EndocrinologyChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child HealthHangzhouChina
| | - Zhihao Ma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, MOE Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardio‐Cerebral Vascular Detection Technology and Medicinal Effectiveness Appraisal, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Clinical Evaluation and Translational ResearchZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Junfen Fu
- Department of EndocrinologyChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child HealthHangzhouChina
| | - Yingke Xu
- Department of EndocrinologyChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child HealthHangzhouChina
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, MOE Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardio‐Cerebral Vascular Detection Technology and Medicinal Effectiveness Appraisal, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Clinical Evaluation and Translational ResearchZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Binjiang Institute of Zhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
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2
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Chang S, Koo JH, Yoo J, Kim MS, Choi MK, Kim DH, Song YM. Flexible and Stretchable Light-Emitting Diodes and Photodetectors for Human-Centric Optoelectronics. Chem Rev 2024; 124:768-859. [PMID: 38241488 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Optoelectronic devices with unconventional form factors, such as flexible and stretchable light-emitting or photoresponsive devices, are core elements for the next-generation human-centric optoelectronics. For instance, these deformable devices can be utilized as closely fitted wearable sensors to acquire precise biosignals that are subsequently uploaded to the cloud for immediate examination and diagnosis, and also can be used for vision systems for human-interactive robotics. Their inception was propelled by breakthroughs in novel optoelectronic material technologies and device blueprinting methodologies, endowing flexibility and mechanical resilience to conventional rigid optoelectronic devices. This paper reviews the advancements in such soft optoelectronic device technologies, honing in on various materials, manufacturing techniques, and device design strategies. We will first highlight the general approaches for flexible and stretchable device fabrication, including the appropriate material selection for the substrate, electrodes, and insulation layers. We will then focus on the materials for flexible and stretchable light-emitting diodes, their device integration strategies, and representative application examples. Next, we will move on to the materials for flexible and stretchable photodetectors, highlighting the state-of-the-art materials and device fabrication methods, followed by their representative application examples. At the end, a brief summary will be given, and the potential challenges for further development of functional devices will be discussed as a conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sehui Chang
- School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Ja Hoon Koo
- Department of Semiconductor Systems Engineering, Sejong University, Seoul 05006, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Semiconductor and System IC, Sejong University, Seoul 05006, Republic of Korea
| | - Jisu Yoo
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Seok Kim
- School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Moon Kee Choi
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea
- Graduate School of Semiconductor Materials and Devices Engineering, Center for Future Semiconductor Technology (FUST), UNIST, Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae-Hyeong Kim
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University (SNU), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, SNU, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- Interdisciplinary Program for Bioengineering, SNU, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Min Song
- School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) Graduate School, GIST, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
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3
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Yan X, Liu X, Zhao C, Chen GQ. Applications of synthetic biology in medical and pharmaceutical fields. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:199. [PMID: 37169742 PMCID: PMC10173249 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01440-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic biology aims to design or assemble existing bioparts or bio-components for useful bioproperties. During the past decades, progresses have been made to build delicate biocircuits, standardized biological building blocks and to develop various genomic/metabolic engineering tools and approaches. Medical and pharmaceutical demands have also pushed the development of synthetic biology, including integration of heterologous pathways into designer cells to efficiently produce medical agents, enhanced yields of natural products in cell growth media to equal or higher than that of the extracts from plants or fungi, constructions of novel genetic circuits for tumor targeting, controllable releases of therapeutic agents in response to specific biomarkers to fight diseases such as diabetes and cancers. Besides, new strategies are developed to treat complex immune diseases, infectious diseases and metabolic disorders that are hard to cure via traditional approaches. In general, synthetic biology brings new capabilities to medical and pharmaceutical researches. This review summarizes the timeline of synthetic biology developments, the past and present of synthetic biology for microbial productions of pharmaceutics, engineered cells equipped with synthetic DNA circuits for diagnosis and therapies, live and auto-assemblied biomaterials for medical treatments, cell-free synthetic biology in medical and pharmaceutical fields, and DNA engineering approaches with potentials for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Yan
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
| | - Xu Liu
- PhaBuilder Biotech Co. Ltd., Shunyi District, Zhaoquan Ying, 101309, Beijing, China
| | - Cuihuan Zhao
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
| | - Guo-Qiang Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China.
- Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China.
- MOE Key Lab for Industrial Biocatalysis, Dept Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China.
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Maity D, Guha Ray P, Buchmann P, Mansouri M, Fussenegger M. Blood-Glucose-Powered Metabolic Fuel Cell for Self-Sufficient Bioelectronics. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2300890. [PMID: 36893359 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202300890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Currently available bioelectronic devices consume too much power to be continuously operated on rechargeable batteries, and are often powered wirelessly, with attendant issues regarding reliability, convenience, and mobility. Thus, the availability of a robust, self-sufficient, implantable electrical power generator that works under physiological conditions would be transformative for many applications, from driving bioelectronic implants and prostheses to programing cellular behavior and patients' metabolism. Here, capitalizing on a new copper-containing, conductively tuned 3D carbon nanotube composite, an implantable blood-glucose-powered metabolic fuel cell is designed that continuously monitors blood-glucose levels, converts excess glucose into electrical power during hyperglycemia, and produces sufficient energy (0.7 mW cm-2 , 0.9 V, 50 mm glucose) to drive opto- and electro-genetic regulation of vesicular insulin release from engineered beta cells. It is shown that this integration of blood-glucose monitoring with elimination of excessive blood glucose by combined electro-metabolic conversion and insulin-release-mediated cellular consumption enables the metabolic fuel cell to restore blood-glucose homeostasis in an automatic, self-sufficient, and closed-loop manner in an experimental model of type-1 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debasis Maity
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, CH-4058, Switzerland
| | - Preetam Guha Ray
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, CH-4058, Switzerland
| | - Peter Buchmann
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, CH-4058, Switzerland
| | - Maysam Mansouri
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, CH-4058, Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, CH-4058, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, CH-4058, Switzerland
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5
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Audouard E, Michel F, Pierroz V, Kim T, Rousselot L, Gillet-Legrand B, Dufayet-Chauffaut G, Buchmann P, Florea M, Khel A, Altynbekova K, Delgaldo C, Escudero E, Soler ABA, Cartier N, Piguet F, Folcher M. Bioelectronic cell-based device provides a strategy for the treatment of the experimental model of multiple sclerosis. J Control Release 2022; 352:994-1008. [PMID: 36370877 PMCID: PMC9733677 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.11.008] [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: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Wireless powered optogenetic cell-based implant provides a strategy to deliver subcutaneously therapeutic proteins. Immortalize Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hMSC-TERT) expressing the bacteriophytochrome diguanylate cyclase (DGCL) were validated for optogenetic controlled interferon-β delivery (Optoferon cells) in a bioelectronic cell-based implant. Optoferon cells transcriptomic profiling was used to elaborate an in-silico model of the recombinant interferon-β production. Wireless optoelectronic device integration was developed using additive manufacturing and injection molding. Implant cell-based optoelectronic interface manufacturing was established to integrate industrial flexible compact low-resistance screen-printed Near Field Communication (NFC) coil antenna. Optogenetic cell-based implant biocompatibility, and device performances were evaluated in the Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis (EAE) mouse model of multiple sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Audouard
- NeuroGenCell, Paris Brain Institute – ICM, INSERM, CNRS, AP-HP, Sorbonne Université; Hôpital de la Pitié Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Fanny Michel
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, D-BSSE, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Vanessa Pierroz
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, D-BSSE, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Taeuk Kim
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, D-BSSE, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Lisa Rousselot
- NeuroGenCell, Paris Brain Institute – ICM, INSERM, CNRS, AP-HP, Sorbonne Université; Hôpital de la Pitié Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Béatrix Gillet-Legrand
- NeuroGenCell, Paris Brain Institute – ICM, INSERM, CNRS, AP-HP, Sorbonne Université; Hôpital de la Pitié Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Gaëlle Dufayet-Chauffaut
- NeuroGenCell, Paris Brain Institute – ICM, INSERM, CNRS, AP-HP, Sorbonne Université; Hôpital de la Pitié Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Peter Buchmann
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, D-BSSE, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Michael Florea
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, D-BSSE, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Claudia Delgaldo
- Eurecat, Centre Tecnològic de Catalunya, Functional Printing and Embedded Devices Unit, Mataró, Spain
| | - Encarna Escudero
- Eurecat, Centre Tecnològic de Catalunya, Functional Printing and Embedded Devices Unit, Mataró, Spain
| | - Alejandra Ben Aissa Soler
- Eurecat, Centre Tecnològic de Catalunya, Functional Printing and Embedded Devices Unit, Mataró, Spain
| | - Nathalie Cartier
- NeuroGenCell, Paris Brain Institute – ICM, INSERM, CNRS, AP-HP, Sorbonne Université; Hôpital de la Pitié Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Francoise Piguet
- NeuroGenCell, Paris Brain Institute – ICM, INSERM, CNRS, AP-HP, Sorbonne Université; Hôpital de la Pitié Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Marc Folcher
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, D-BSSE, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland,Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology, IOB, Basel, Switzerland,Corresponding author at: Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, D-BSSE, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland.
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6
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Kim HJ, Ho JS. Wireless interfaces for brain neurotechnologies. PHILOSOPHICAL TRANSACTIONS. SERIES A, MATHEMATICAL, PHYSICAL, AND ENGINEERING SCIENCES 2022; 380:20210020. [PMID: 35658679 DOI: 10.1098/rsta.2021.0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Wireless interfaces enable brain-implanted devices to remotely interact with the external world. They are critical components in modern research and clinical neurotechnologies and play a central role in determining their overall size, lifetime and functionality. Wireless interfaces use a wide range of modalities-including radio-frequency fields, acoustic waves and light-to transfer energy and data to and from an implanted device. These forms of energy interact with living tissue through distinct mechanisms and therefore lead to systems with vastly different form factors, operating characteristics, and safety considerations. This paper reviews recent advances in the development of wireless interfaces for brain neurotechnologies. We summarize the requirements that state-of-the-art brain-implanted devices impose on the wireless interface, and discuss the working principles and applications of wireless interfaces based on each modality. We also investigate challenges associated with wireless brain neurotechnologies and discuss emerging solutions permitted by recent developments in electrical engineering and materials science. This article is part of the theme issue 'Advanced neurotechnologies: translating innovation for health and well-being'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han-Joon Kim
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering National University of Singapore, Queenstown, Singapore
| | - John S Ho
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering National University of Singapore, Queenstown, Singapore
- The N.1 Institute for Health National University of Singapore, Queenstown, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation and Technology, National University of Singapore, Queenstown, Singapore
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Guan N, Gao X, Ye H. Engineering of optogenetic devices for biomedical applications in mammalian synthetic biology. ENGINEERING BIOLOGY 2022; 6:35-49. [PMID: 36969102 PMCID: PMC9996731 DOI: 10.1049/enb2.12022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene- and cell-based therapies are the next frontiers in the field of medicine. Both are transformative and innovative therapies; however, a lack of safety data limits the translation of such promising technologies to the clinic. Improving the safety and promoting the clinical translation of these therapies can be achieved by tightly regulating the release and delivery of therapeutic outputs. In recent years, the rapid development of optogenetic technology has provided opportunities to develop precision-controlled gene- and cell-based therapies, in which light is introduced to precisely and spatiotemporally manipulate the behaviour of genes and cells. This review focuses on the development of optogenetic tools and their applications in biomedicine, including photoactivated genome engineering and phototherapy for diabetes and tumours. The prospects and challenges of optogenetic tools for future clinical applications are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ningzi Guan
- Synthetic Biology and Biomedical Engineering LaboratoryBiomedical Synthetic Biology Research CenterShanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory BiologyInstitute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xianyun Gao
- Synthetic Biology and Biomedical Engineering LaboratoryBiomedical Synthetic Biology Research CenterShanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory BiologyInstitute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Haifeng Ye
- Synthetic Biology and Biomedical Engineering LaboratoryBiomedical Synthetic Biology Research CenterShanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory BiologyInstitute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
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8
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Mansouri M, Fussenegger M. Electrogenetics: Bridging synthetic biology and electronics to remotely control the behavior of mammalian designer cells. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2022; 68:102151. [PMID: 35483127 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2022.102151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Electrogenetics, the combination of electronics and genetics, is an emerging field of mammalian synthetic biology in which electrostimulation is used to remotely program user-designed genetic elements within designer cells to generate desired outputs. Here, we describe recent advances in electro-induced therapeutic gene expression and therapeutic protein secretion in engineered mammalian cells. We also review available tools and strategies to engineer electro-sensitive therapeutic designer cells that are able to sense electrical pulses and produce appropriate clinically relevant outputs in response. We highlight current limitations facing mammalian electrogenetics and suggest potential future directions for research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maysam Mansouri
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, CH-4058, Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, CH-4058, Switzerland; Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, CH-4058, Switzerland.
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VanArsdale E, Pitzer J, Wang S, Stephens K, Chen CY, Payne GF, Bentley WE. Electrogenetic Signal Transmission and Propagation in Coculture to Guide Production of a Small Molecule, Tyrosine. ACS Synth Biol 2022; 11:877-887. [PMID: 35113532 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.1c00522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
There are many strategies to actuate and control genetic circuits, including providing stimuli like exogenous chemical inducers, light, magnetic fields, and even applied voltage, that are orthogonal to metabolic activity. Their use enables actuation of gene expression for the production of small molecules and proteins in many contexts. Additionally, there are a growing number of reports wherein cocultures, consortia, or even complex microbiomes are employed for the production of biologics, taking advantage of an expanded array of biological function. Combining stimuli-responsive engineered cell populations enhances design space but increases complexity. In this work, we co-opt nature's redox networks and electrogenetically route control signals into a consortium of microbial cells engineered to produce a model small molecule, tyrosine. In particular, we show how electronically programmed short-lived signals (i.e., hydrogen peroxide) can be transformed by one population and propagated into sustained longer-distance signals that, in turn, guide tyrosine production in a second population building on bacterial quorum sensing that coordinates their collective behavior. Two design methodologies are demonstrated. First, we use electrogenetics to transform redox signals into the quorum sensing autoinducer, AI-1, that, in turn, induces a tyrosine biosynthesis pathway transformed into a second population. Second, we use the electrogenetically stimulated AI-1 to actuate expression of ptsH, boosting the growth rate of tyrosine-producing cells, augmenting both their number and metabolic activity. In both cases, we show how signal propagation within the coculture helps to ensure tyrosine production. We suggest that this work lays a foundation for employing electrochemical stimuli and engineered cocultures for production of molecular products in biomanufacturing environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric VanArsdale
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
- Fischell Institute for Biomedical Devices, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - Juliana Pitzer
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - Sally Wang
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
- Fischell Institute for Biomedical Devices, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - Kristina Stephens
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
- Fischell Institute for Biomedical Devices, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - Chen-yu Chen
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
- Fischell Institute for Biomedical Devices, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - Gregory F. Payne
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
- Fischell Institute for Biomedical Devices, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - William E. Bentley
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
- Fischell Institute for Biomedical Devices, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
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10
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Wang Z, Yan Y, Zhang H. Design and Characterization of an Optogenetic System in Pichia pastoris. ACS Synth Biol 2022; 11:297-307. [PMID: 34994189 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.1c00422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Pichia pastoris (P. pastoris) is the workhorse in the commercial production of many valuable proteins. Traditionally, the regulation of gene expression in P. pastoris is achieved through induction by methanol which is toxic and flammable. The emerging optogenetic technology provides an alternative and cleaner gene regulation method. Based on the photosensitive protein EL222, we designed a novel "one-component" optogenetic system. The highest induction ratio was 79.7-fold under blue light compared to the group under darkness. After switching cells from dark to blue illumination, the system induced expression in just 1 h. Only 2 h after the system was switched back to the darkness from blue illumination, the target gene expression was inactivated 5-fold. The induction intensity of the optogenetic system is positively correlated with the dose and periodicity of blue illumination, and it has good spatial control. These results provide the first credible case of optogenetically induced protein expression in P. pastoris.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqian Wang
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, MOE Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Wuhan 430074, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yunjun Yan
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, MOE Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Wuhan 430074, People’s Republic of China
| | - Houjin Zhang
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, MOE Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Wuhan 430074, People’s Republic of China
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11
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Bansal A, Shikha S, Zhang Y. Towards translational optogenetics. Nat Biomed Eng 2022; 7:349-369. [PMID: 35027688 DOI: 10.1038/s41551-021-00829-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Optogenetics is widely used to interrogate the neural circuits underlying disease and has most recently been harnessed for therapeutic applications. The optogenetic toolkit consists of light-responsive proteins that modulate specific cellular functions, vectors for the delivery of the transgenes that encode the light-responsive proteins to targeted cellular populations, and devices for the delivery of light of suitable wavelengths at effective fluence rates. A refined toolkit with a focus towards translational uses would include efficient and safer viral and non-viral gene-delivery vectors, increasingly red-shifted photoresponsive proteins, nanomaterials that efficiently transduce near-infrared light deep into tissue, and wireless implantable light-delivery devices that allow for spatiotemporally precise interventions at clinically relevant tissue depths. In this Review, we examine the current optogenetics toolkit and the most notable preclinical and translational uses of optogenetics, and discuss future methodological and translational developments and bottlenecks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshaya Bansal
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Swati Shikha
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore. .,NUS Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore. .,NUS Suzhou Research Institute, Suzhou, Jiangsu, P. R. China.
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12
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Visser LA, Folcher M, Delgado Simao C, Gutierrez Arechederra B, Escudero E, Uyl-de Groot CA, Redekop WK. The Potential Cost-Effectiveness of a Cell-Based Bioelectronic Implantable Device Delivering Interferon-β1a Therapy Versus Injectable Interferon-β1a Treatment in Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis. PHARMACOECONOMICS 2022; 40:91-108. [PMID: 34480325 PMCID: PMC8739553 DOI: 10.1007/s40273-021-01081-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current first-line disease-modifying therapies (DMT) for multiple sclerosis (MS) patients are injectable or oral treatments. The Optogenerapy consortium is developing a novel bioelectronic cell-based implant for controlled release of beta-interferon (IFNβ1a) protein into the body. The current study estimated the potential cost effectiveness of the Optogenerapy implant (hereafter: Optoferon) compared with injectable IFNβ1a (Avonex). METHODS A Markov model simulating the costs and effects of Optoferon compared with injectable 30 mg IFNβ1a over a 9-year time horizon from a Dutch societal perspective. Costs were reported in 2019 Euros and discounted at a 4% annual rate; health effects were discounted at a 1.5% annual rate. The cohort consisted of 35-year-old, relapsing-remitting MS patients with mild disability. The device is implanted in a daycare setting, and is replaced every 3 years. In the base-case analysis, we assumed equal input parameters for Optoferon and Avonex regarding disability progression, health effects, adverse event probabilities, and acquisition costs. We assumed reduced annual relapse rates and withdrawal rates for Optoferon compared with Avonex. Sensitivity, scenario, value of information, and headroom analysis were performed. RESULTS Optoferon was the dominant strategy with cost reductions (- €26,966) and health gains (0.45 quality-adjusted life-years gained). A main driver of cost differences are the acquisition costs of Optoferon being 2.5 times less than the costs of Avonex. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was most sensitive to variations in the annual acquisition costs of Avonex, the annual withdrawal rate of Avonex and Optoferon, and the disability progression of Avonex. CONCLUSION Innovative technology such as the Optoferon implant may be a cost-effective therapy for patients with MS. The novel implantable mode of therapeutic protein administration has the potential to become a new mode of treatment administration for MS patients and in other disease areas. However, trials are needed to establish safety and effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurenske A. Visser
- Erasmus School of Health Policy and Management, Department: Health Technology Assessment, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marc Folcher
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Opthalmology Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Claudia Delgado Simao
- Functional Printing and Embedded Devices Unit, Eurecat, Centre Tecnològic de Catalunya, 08302 Mataró, Spain
| | | | - Encarna Escudero
- Plastic Materials Unit, Eurecat, Centre Tecnològic de Catalunya, Cerdanyola de Valles, Spain
| | - Carin A. Uyl-de Groot
- Erasmus School of Health Policy and Management, Department of Health Technology Assessment, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - William Ken Redekop
- Erasmus School of Health Policy and Management, Department: Health Technology Assessment, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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13
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Kavaliauskaitė J, Kazlauskaitė A, Lazutka JR, Mozolevskis G, Stirkė A. Pulsed Electric Fields Alter Expression of NF-κB Promoter-Controlled Gene. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010451. [PMID: 35008875 PMCID: PMC8745616 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The possibility to artificially adjust and fine-tune gene expression is one of the key milestones in bioengineering, synthetic biology, and advanced medicine. Since the effects of proteins or other transgene products depend on the dosage, controlled gene expression is required for any applications, where even slight fluctuations of the transgene product impact its function or other critical cell parameters. In this context, physical techniques demonstrate optimistic perspectives, and pulsed electric field technology is a potential candidate for a noninvasive, biophysical gene regulator, exploiting an easily adjustable pulse generating device. We exposed mammalian cells, transfected with a NF-κB pathway-controlled transcription system, to a range of microsecond-duration pulsed electric field parameters. To prevent toxicity, we used protocols that would generate relatively mild physical stimulation. The present study, for the first time, proves the principle that microsecond-duration pulsed electric fields can alter single-gene expression in plasmid context in mammalian cells without significant damage to cell integrity or viability. Gene expression might be upregulated or downregulated depending on the cell line and parameters applied. This noninvasive, ligand-, cofactor-, nanoparticle-free approach enables easily controlled direct electrostimulation of the construct carrying the gene of interest; the discovery may contribute towards the path of simplification of the complexity of physical systems in gene regulation and create further synergies between electronics, synthetic biology, and medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justina Kavaliauskaitė
- Laboratory of Bioelectrics, Center for Physical Sciences and Technology, Sauletekio Ave. 3, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania; (J.K.); (A.K.)
- Department of Botany and Genetics, Institute of Biosciences, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Sauletekio Ave. 7, LT-10222 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | - Auksė Kazlauskaitė
- Laboratory of Bioelectrics, Center for Physical Sciences and Technology, Sauletekio Ave. 3, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania; (J.K.); (A.K.)
- Department of Botany and Genetics, Institute of Biosciences, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Sauletekio Ave. 7, LT-10222 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | - Juozas Rimantas Lazutka
- Department of Botany and Genetics, Institute of Biosciences, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Sauletekio Ave. 7, LT-10222 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | - Gatis Mozolevskis
- Laboratory of Prototyping of Electronic and Photonic Devices, Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia, Kengaraga Str. 8, LV-1063 Riga, Latvia;
| | - Arūnas Stirkė
- Laboratory of Bioelectrics, Center for Physical Sciences and Technology, Sauletekio Ave. 3, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania; (J.K.); (A.K.)
- Laboratory of Prototyping of Electronic and Photonic Devices, Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia, Kengaraga Str. 8, LV-1063 Riga, Latvia;
- Correspondence:
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14
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Tang K, Beyer HM, Zurbriggen MD, Gärtner W. The Red Edge: Bilin-Binding Photoreceptors as Optogenetic Tools and Fluorescence Reporters. Chem Rev 2021; 121:14906-14956. [PMID: 34669383 PMCID: PMC8707292 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.1c00194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
This review adds the bilin-binding phytochromes to the Chemical Reviews thematic issue "Optogenetics and Photopharmacology". The work is structured into two parts. We first outline the photochemistry of the covalently bound tetrapyrrole chromophore and summarize relevant spectroscopic, kinetic, biochemical, and physiological properties of the different families of phytochromes. Based on this knowledge, we then describe the engineering of phytochromes to further improve these chromoproteins as photoswitches and review their employment in an ever-growing number of different optogenetic applications. Most applications rely on the light-controlled complex formation between the plant photoreceptor PhyB and phytochrome-interacting factors (PIFs) or C-terminal light-regulated domains with enzymatic functions present in many bacterial and algal phytochromes. Phytochrome-based optogenetic tools are currently implemented in bacteria, yeast, plants, and animals to achieve light control of a wide range of biological activities. These cover the regulation of gene expression, protein transport into cell organelles, and the recruitment of phytochrome- or PIF-tagged proteins to membranes and other cellular compartments. This compilation illustrates the intrinsic advantages of phytochromes compared to other photoreceptor classes, e.g., their bidirectional dual-wavelength control enabling instant ON and OFF regulation. In particular, the long wavelength range of absorption and fluorescence within the "transparent window" makes phytochromes attractive for complex applications requiring deep tissue penetration or dual-wavelength control in combination with blue and UV light-sensing photoreceptors. In addition to the wide variability of applications employing natural and engineered phytochromes, we also discuss recent progress in the development of bilin-based fluorescent proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Tang
- Institute
of Synthetic Biology, Heinrich-Heine-University
Düsseldorf, Universitätsstrasse 1, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Hannes M. Beyer
- Institute
of Synthetic Biology, Heinrich-Heine-University
Düsseldorf, Universitätsstrasse 1, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Matias D. Zurbriggen
- Institute
of Synthetic Biology and CEPLAS, Heinrich-Heine-University
Düsseldorf, Universitätsstrasse
1, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Gärtner
- Retired: Max Planck Institute
for Chemical Energy Conversion. At present: Institute for Analytical Chemistry, University
Leipzig, Linnéstrasse
3, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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15
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Madderson O, Teixeira AP, Fussenegger M. Emerging mammalian gene switches for controlling implantable cell therapies. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2021; 64:98-105. [PMID: 34216875 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2021.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Engineered cell-based therapies have emerged as a new paradigm in modern medicine, with several engineered T cell therapies currently approved to treat blood cancers and many more in clinical development. Tremendous progress in synthetic biology over the past two decades has allowed us to program cells with sophisticated sense-and-response modules that can effectively control therapeutic functions. In this review, we highlight recent advances in mammalian synthetic gene switches, focusing on devices designed for therapeutic applications. Although many gene switches responding to endogenous or exogenous molecular signals have been developed, the focus is shifting towards achieving remote-controlled production of therapeutic effectors by stimulating implanted engineered cells with traceless physical signals, such as light, electrical signals, magnetic fields, heat or ultrasound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Madderson
- ETH Zürich, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ana Palma Teixeira
- ETH Zürich, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- ETH Zürich, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058, Basel, Switzerland; University of Basel, Faculty of Life Science, Basel, Switzerland.
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16
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Audouard E, Rousselot L, Folcher M, Cartier N, Piguet F. Optimized Protocol for Subcutaneous Implantation of Encapsulated Cells Device and Evaluation of Biocompatibility. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:620967. [PMID: 34249877 PMCID: PMC8264370 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.620967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Improving a drug delivery system is critical to treat central nervous system disorders. Here we studied an innovative approach based on implantation of a wireless-powered cell-based device in mice. This device, coupling biologic material and electronics, is the first of its kind. The advantage of this technology is its ability to control the secretion of a therapeutic molecule and to switch the classical permanent delivery to activation on demand. In diseases with relapsing-remitting phases such as multiple sclerosis, such activation could be selectively achieved in relapsing phases. However, the safety (tolerance to biomaterials and surgical procedure) of such a clinical device needs to be verified. Therefore, the development of tools to assess the biocompatibility of the system in animal models is an essential step. We present the development of this new therapeutic approach, the challenges we encountered during the different steps of its development (such as cell loading in the chamber, surgery protocol for subcutaneous implantation of the device) and the tools we used to evaluate cell viability and biocompatibility of the device.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Audouard
- NeuroGenCell, Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, ICM, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle Épinière, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Lisa Rousselot
- NeuroGenCell, Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, ICM, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle Épinière, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Marc Folcher
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE), ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland.,Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology (IOB), Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nathalie Cartier
- NeuroGenCell, Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, ICM, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle Épinière, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Françoise Piguet
- NeuroGenCell, Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, ICM, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle Épinière, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
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17
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Smart-watch-programmed green-light-operated percutaneous control of therapeutic transgenes. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3388. [PMID: 34099676 PMCID: PMC8184832 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23572-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Wearable smart electronic devices, such as smart watches, are generally equipped with green-light-emitting diodes, which are used for photoplethysmography to monitor a panoply of physical health parameters. Here, we present a traceless, green-light-operated, smart-watch-controlled mammalian gene switch (Glow Control), composed of an engineered membrane-tethered green-light-sensitive cobalamin-binding domain of Thermus thermophilus (TtCBD) CarH protein in combination with a synthetic cytosolic TtCBD-transactivator fusion protein, which manage translocation of TtCBD-transactivator into the nucleus to trigger expression of transgenes upon illumination. We show that Apple-Watch-programmed percutaneous remote control of implanted Glow-controlled engineered human cells can effectively treat experimental type-2 diabetes by producing and releasing human glucagon-like peptide-1 on demand. Directly interfacing wearable smart electronic devices with therapeutic gene expression will advance next-generation personalized therapies by linking biopharmaceutical interventions to the internet of things.
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18
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Bhave G, Chen JC, Singer A, Sharma A, Robinson JT. Distributed sensor and actuator networks for closed-loop bioelectronic medicine. MATERIALS TODAY (KIDLINGTON, ENGLAND) 2021; 46:125-135. [PMID: 34366697 PMCID: PMC8336425 DOI: 10.1016/j.mattod.2020.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Designing implantable bioelectronic systems that continuously monitor physiological functions and simultaneously provide personalized therapeutic solutions for patients remains a persistent challenge across many applications ranging from neural systems to bioelectronic organs. Closed-loop systems typically consist of three functional blocks, namely, sensors, signal processors and actuators. An effective system, that can provide the necessary therapeutics, tailored to individual physiological factors requires a distributed network of sensors and actuators. While significant progress has been made, closed-loop systems still face many challenges before they can truly be considered as long-term solutions for many diseases. In this review, we consider three important criteria where materials play a critical role to enable implantable closed-loop systems: Specificity, Biocompatibility and Connectivity. We look at the progress made in each of these fields with respect to a specific application and outline the challenges in creating bioelectronic technologies for the future.
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19
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Kakoty V, K C S, Dubey SK, Yang CH, Kesharwani P, Taliyan R. Lentiviral mediated gene delivery as an effective therapeutic approach for Parkinson disease. Neurosci Lett 2021; 750:135769. [PMID: 33636285 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.135769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Continual strategies to devise a complete therapeutic cure for neurodegenerative conditions has been a challenge, majorly due to the presence of blood brain barrier. Lack of targeted delivery in order to minimize loss of dopamine (DA) neurones has been a major challenge to overcome anomalies in Parkinson Disease (PD). PD is a neuromotor degenerative disorder deteriorating motor coordination in affected individuals. Recent research has highlighted the use of lentiviral vectors (LVs) for selective delivery of neuroprotective substance for complete halt of disease progression in PD. LVs have the ability to infect both dividing and non-dividing cells along with non-encoding capability of viral protein that might elicit an immune response. This review will mainly focus on understanding the basic mechanism of action of LVs and its therapeutic aid in PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Violina Kakoty
- Neuropsychopharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, India
| | - Sarathlal K C
- Neuropsychopharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, India
| | - Sunil Kumar Dubey
- Neuropsychopharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, India; R&D Healthcare Division, Emami Ltd, Kolkatta, India
| | - Chih Hao Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, Taipei Medical University, Taiwan
| | - Prashant Kesharwani
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India.
| | - Rajeev Taliyan
- Neuropsychopharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, India.
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20
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Dixon TA, Williams TC, Pretorius IS. Sensing the future of bio-informational engineering. Nat Commun 2021; 12:388. [PMID: 33452260 PMCID: PMC7810845 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-20764-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The practices of synthetic biology are being integrated into 'multiscale' designs enabling two-way communication across organic and inorganic information substrates in biological, digital and cyber-physical system integrations. Novel applications of 'bio-informational' engineering will arise in environmental monitoring, precision agriculture, precision medicine and next-generation biomanufacturing. Potential developments include sentinel plants for environmental monitoring and autonomous bioreactors that respond to biosensor signaling. As bio-informational understanding progresses, both natural and engineered biological systems will need to be reimagined as cyber-physical architectures. We propose that a multiple length scale taxonomy will assist in rationalizing and enabling this transformative development in engineering biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A Dixon
- Department of Modern History, Politics and International Relations, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia.
| | - Thomas C Williams
- Department of Molecular Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
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21
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Huang X, Zhou Q, Wang M, Cao C, Ma Q, Ye J, Gui Y. A Light-Inducible Split-dCas9 System for Inhibiting the Progression of Bladder Cancer Cells by Activating p53 and E-cadherin. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 7:627848. [PMID: 33469550 PMCID: PMC7814291 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2020.627848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Optogenetic systems have been increasingly investigated in the field of biomedicine. Previous studies had found the inhibitory effect of the light-inducible genetic circuits on cancer cell growth. In our study, we applied an AND logic gates to the light-inducible genetic circuits to inhibit the cancer cells more specifically. The circuit would only be activated in the presence of both the human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) and the human uroplakin II (hUPII) promoter. The activated logic gate led to the expression of the p53 or E-cadherin protein, which could inhibit the biological function of tumor cells. In addition, we split the dCas9 protein to reduce the size of the synthetic circuit compared to the full-length dCas9. This light-inducible system provides a potential therapeutic strategy for future bladder cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinbo Huang
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen-Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qun Zhou
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Nanhua Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Mingxia Wang
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen-Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Congcong Cao
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen-Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qian Ma
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen-Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jing Ye
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen-Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yaoting Gui
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen-Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, China
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22
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Page A, Fusil F, Cosset FL. Toward Tightly Tuned Gene Expression Following Lentiviral Vector Transduction. Viruses 2020; 12:v12121427. [PMID: 33322556 PMCID: PMC7764518 DOI: 10.3390/v12121427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Lentiviral vectors are versatile tools for gene delivery purposes. While in the earlier versions of retroviral vectors, transgene expression was controlled by the long terminal repeats (LTRs), the latter generations of vectors, including those derived from lentiviruses, incorporate internal constitutive or regulated promoters in order to regulate transgene expression. This allows to temporally and/or quantitatively control transgene expression, which is required for many applications such as for clinical applications, when transgene expression is required in specific tissues and at a specific timing. Here we review the main systems that have been developed for transgene regulated expression following lentiviral gene transfer. First, the induction of gene expression can be triggered either by external or by internal cues. Indeed, these regulated vector systems may harbor promoters inducible by exogenous stimuli, such as small molecules (e.g., antibiotics) or temperature variations, offering the possibility to tune rapidly transgene expression in case of adverse events. Second, expression can be indirectly adjusted by playing on inserted sequence copies, for instance by gene excision. Finally, synthetic networks can be developed to sense specific endogenous signals and trigger defined responses after information processing. Regulatable lentiviral vectors (LV)-mediated transgene expression systems have been widely used in basic research to uncover gene functions or to temporally reprogram cells. Clinical applications are also under development to induce therapeutic molecule secretion or to implement safety switches. Such regulatable approaches are currently focusing much attention and will benefit from the development of other technologies in order to launch autonomously controlled systems.
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Kojima R, Aubel D, Fussenegger M. Building sophisticated sensors of extracellular cues that enable mammalian cells to work as "doctors" in the body. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 77:3567-3581. [PMID: 32185403 PMCID: PMC7452942 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03486-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Revised: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian cells are inherently capable of sensing extracellular environmental signals and activating complex biological functions on demand. Advances in synthetic biology have made it possible to install additional capabilities, which can allow cells to sense the presence of custom biological molecules and provide defined outputs on demand. When implanted/infused in patients, such engineered cells can work as intrabody "doctors" that diagnose disease states and produce and deliver therapeutic molecules when and where necessary. The key to construction of such theranostic cells is the development of a range of sensor systems for detecting various extracellular environmental cues that can be rewired to custom outputs. In this review, we introduce the state-of-art engineering principles utilized in the design of sensor systems to detect soluble factors and also to detect specific cell contact, and we discuss their potential role in treating intractable diseases by delivering appropriate therapeutic functions on demand. We also discuss the challenges facing these emerging technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryosuke Kojima
- Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.
- PRESTO, Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), 4-1-8 Honcho, Kawaguchi, Saitama, 332-0012, Japan.
| | - Dominque Aubel
- IUTA Département Génie Biologique, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Boulevard du 11 Novembre 1918, 69622, Villeurbanne Cedex, France
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE), ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058, Basel, Switzerland.
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058, Basel, Switzerland.
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Krawczyk K, Xue S, Buchmann P, Charpin-El-Hamri G, Saxena P, Hussherr MD, Shao J, Ye H, Xie M, Fussenegger M. Electrogenetic cellular insulin release for real-time glycemic control in type 1 diabetic mice. Science 2020; 368:993-1001. [DOI: 10.1126/science.aau7187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2018] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Sophisticated devices for remote-controlled medical interventions require an electrogenetic interface that uses digital electronic input to directly program cellular behavior. We present a cofactor-free bioelectronic interface that directly links wireless-powered electrical stimulation of human cells to either synthetic promoter–driven transgene expression or rapid secretion of constitutively expressed protein therapeutics from vesicular stores. Electrogenetic control was achieved by coupling ectopic expression of the L-type voltage-gated channel CaV1.2 and the inwardly rectifying potassium channel Kir2.1 to the desired output through endogenous calcium signaling. Focusing on type 1 diabetes, we engineered electrosensitive human β cells (Electroβ cells). Wireless electrical stimulation of Electroβ cells inside a custom-built bioelectronic device provided real-time control of vesicular insulin release; insulin levels peaked within 10 minutes. When subcutaneously implanted, this electrotriggered vesicular release system restored normoglycemia in type 1 diabetic mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Krawczyk
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Shuai Xue
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, People’s Republic of China
| | - Peter Buchmann
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ghislaine Charpin-El-Hamri
- Département Génie Biologique, Institut Universitaire de Technologie Lyon 1, F-69622 Villeurbanne Cedex, France
| | - Pratik Saxena
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marie-Didiée Hussherr
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jiawei Shao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Transformation Research of Zheijang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Haifeng Ye
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mingqi Xie
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Transformation Research of Zheijang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland
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25
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Gamboa L, Zamat AH, Kwong GA. Synthetic immunity by remote control. Theranostics 2020; 10:3652-3667. [PMID: 32206114 PMCID: PMC7069089 DOI: 10.7150/thno.41305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell-based immunotherapies, such as T cells engineered with chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), have the potential to cure patients of disease otherwise refractory to conventional treatments. Early-on-treatment and long-term durability of patient responses depend critically on the ability to control the potency of adoptively transferred T cells, as overactivation can lead to complications like cytokine release syndrome, and immunosuppression can result in ineffective responses to therapy. Drugs or biologics (e.g., cytokines) that modulate immune activity are limited by mass transport barriers that reduce the local effective drug concentration, and lack site or target cell specificity that results in toxicity. Emerging technologies that enable site-targeted, remote control of key T cell functions - including proliferation, antigen-sensing, and target-cell killing - have the potential to increase treatment precision and safety profile. These technologies are broadly applicable to other immune cells to expand immune cell therapies across many cancers and diseases. In this review, we highlight the opportunities, challenges and the current state-of-the-art for remote control of synthetic immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Gamboa
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Ali H. Zamat
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Gabriel A. Kwong
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
- Institute for Electronics and Nanotechnology, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
- Parker H. Petit Institute of Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
- Integrated Cancer Research Center, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
- Georgia Immunoengineering Consortium, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
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26
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Experimental Realization of Zenneck Type Wave-based Non-Radiative, Non-Coupled Wireless Power Transmission. Sci Rep 2020; 10:925. [PMID: 31969594 PMCID: PMC6976601 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-57554-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
A decade ago, non-radiative wireless power transmission re-emerged as a promising alternative to deliver electrical power to devices where a physical wiring proved impracticable. However, conventional “coupling-based” approaches face performance issues when multiple devices are involved, as they are restricted by factors like coupling and external environments. Zenneck waves are excited at interfaces, like surface plasmons and have the potential to deliver electrical power to devices placed on a conducting surface. Here, we demonstrate, efficient and long range delivery of electrical power by exciting non-radiative waves over metal surfaces to multiple loads. Our modeling and simulation using Maxwell’s equation with proper boundary conditions shows Zenneck type behavior for the excited waves and are in excellent agreement with experimental results. In conclusion, we physically realize a radically different class of power transfer system, based on a wave, whose existence has been fiercely debated for over a century.
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27
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Ye H, Fussenegger M. Optogenetic Medicine: Synthetic Therapeutic Solutions Precision-Guided by Light. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2019; 9:a034371. [PMID: 30291146 PMCID: PMC6719591 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a034371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Gene- and cell-based therapies are well recognized as central pillars of next-generation medicine, but controllability remains a critical issue for clinical applications. In this context, optogenetics is opening up exciting new opportunities for precision-guided medicine by using illumination with light of appropriate intensity and wavelength as a trigger signal to achieve pinpoint spatiotemporal control of cellular activities, such as transgene expression. In this review, we highlight recent advances in optogenetics, focusing on devices for biomedical applications. We introduce the construction and applications of optogenetic-based biomedical tools to treat neurological diseases, diabetes, heart diseases, and cancer, as well as bioelectronic implants that combine light-interfaced electronic devices and optogenetic systems into portable personalized precision bioelectronic medical tools. Optogenetics-based technology promises the capability to achieve traceless, remotely controlled precision dosing of an enormous range of therapeutic outputs. Finally, we discuss the prospects for optogenetic medicine, as well as some emerging challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haifeng Ye
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 200241 Shanghai, China
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Faculty of Science, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland
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28
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Thang DC, Wang Z, Lu X, Xing B. Precise cell behaviors manipulation through light-responsive nano-regulators: recent advance and perspective. Theranostics 2019; 9:3308-3340. [PMID: 31244956 PMCID: PMC6567964 DOI: 10.7150/thno.33888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Nanotechnology-assisted spatiotemporal manipulation of biological events holds great promise in advancing the practice of precision medicine in healthcare systems. The progress in internal and/or external stimuli-responsive nanoplatforms for highly specific cellular regulations and theranostic controls offer potential clinical translations of the revolutionized nanomedicine. To successfully implement this new paradigm, the emerging light-responsive nanoregulators with unparalleled precise cell functions manipulation have gained intensive attention, providing UV-Vis light-triggered photocleavage or photoisomerization studies, as well as near-infrared (NIR) light-mediated deep-tissue applications for stimulating cellular signal cascades and treatment of mortal diseases. This review discusses current developments of light-activatable nanoplatforms for modulations of various cellular events including neuromodulations, stem cell monitoring, immunomanipulation, cancer therapy, and other biological target intervention. In summary, the propagation of light-controlled nanomedicine would place a bright prospect for future medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Do Cong Thang
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical & Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637371, Singapore
| | - Zhimin Wang
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical & Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637371, Singapore
| | - Xiaoling Lu
- International Nanobody Research Center of Guangxi, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530021, China
| | - Bengang Xing
- Sino-Singapore International Joint Research Institute (SSIJRI), Guangzhou 510000, China
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical & Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637371, Singapore
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29
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Martins NRB, Angelica A, Chakravarthy K, Svidinenko Y, Boehm FJ, Opris I, Lebedev MA, Swan M, Garan SA, Rosenfeld JV, Hogg T, Freitas RA. Human Brain/Cloud Interface. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:112. [PMID: 30983948 PMCID: PMC6450227 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The Internet comprises a decentralized global system that serves humanity's collective effort to generate, process, and store data, most of which is handled by the rapidly expanding cloud. A stable, secure, real-time system may allow for interfacing the cloud with the human brain. One promising strategy for enabling such a system, denoted here as a "human brain/cloud interface" ("B/CI"), would be based on technologies referred to here as "neuralnanorobotics." Future neuralnanorobotics technologies are anticipated to facilitate accurate diagnoses and eventual cures for the ∼400 conditions that affect the human brain. Neuralnanorobotics may also enable a B/CI with controlled connectivity between neural activity and external data storage and processing, via the direct monitoring of the brain's ∼86 × 109 neurons and ∼2 × 1014 synapses. Subsequent to navigating the human vasculature, three species of neuralnanorobots (endoneurobots, gliabots, and synaptobots) could traverse the blood-brain barrier (BBB), enter the brain parenchyma, ingress into individual human brain cells, and autoposition themselves at the axon initial segments of neurons (endoneurobots), within glial cells (gliabots), and in intimate proximity to synapses (synaptobots). They would then wirelessly transmit up to ∼6 × 1016 bits per second of synaptically processed and encoded human-brain electrical information via auxiliary nanorobotic fiber optics (30 cm3) with the capacity to handle up to 1018 bits/sec and provide rapid data transfer to a cloud based supercomputer for real-time brain-state monitoring and data extraction. A neuralnanorobotically enabled human B/CI might serve as a personalized conduit, allowing persons to obtain direct, instantaneous access to virtually any facet of cumulative human knowledge. Other anticipated applications include myriad opportunities to improve education, intelligence, entertainment, traveling, and other interactive experiences. A specialized application might be the capacity to engage in fully immersive experiential/sensory experiences, including what is referred to here as "transparent shadowing" (TS). Through TS, individuals might experience episodic segments of the lives of other willing participants (locally or remote) to, hopefully, encourage and inspire improved understanding and tolerance among all members of the human family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuno R. B. Martins
- Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, United States
- Center for Research and Education on Aging (CREA), University of California, Berkeley and LBNL, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | | | - Krishnan Chakravarthy
- UC San Diego Health Science, San Diego, CA, United States
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, United States
| | | | | | - Ioan Opris
- Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States
| | - Mikhail A. Lebedev
- Center for Neuroengineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
- Center for Bioelectric Interfaces of the Institute for Cognitive Neuroscience of the National Research University Higher School of Economics, Moscow, Russia
- Department of Information and Internet Technologies of Digital Health Institute, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Melanie Swan
- Department of Philosophy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Steven A. Garan
- Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, United States
- Center for Research and Education on Aging (CREA), University of California, Berkeley and LBNL, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Jeffrey V. Rosenfeld
- Monash Institute of Medical Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Surgery, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Surgery, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Tad Hogg
- Institute for Molecular Manufacturing, Palo Alto, CA, United States
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30
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Heidari Feidt R, Ienca M, Elger BS, Folcher M. Synthetic Biology and the Translational Imperative. SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING ETHICS 2019; 25:33-52. [PMID: 29255953 DOI: 10.1007/s11948-017-0011-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2017] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Advances at the interface between the biological sciences and engineering are giving rise to emerging research fields such as synthetic biology. Harnessing the potential of synthetic biology requires timely and adequate translation into clinical practice. However, the translational research enterprise is currently facing fundamental obstacles that slow down the transition of scientific discoveries from the laboratory to the patient bedside. These obstacles including scarce financial resources and deficiency of organizational and logistic settings are widely discussed as primary impediments to translational research. In addition, a number of socio-ethical considerations inherent in translational research need to be addressed. As the translational capacity of synthetic biology is tightly linked to its social acceptance and ethical approval, ethical limitations may-together with financial and organizational problems-be co-determinants of suboptimal translation. Therefore, an early assessment of such limitations will contribute to proactively favor successful translation and prevent the promising potential of synthetic biology from remaining under-expressed. Through the discussion of two case-specific inventions in synthetic biology and their associated ethical implications, we illustrate the socio-ethical challenges ahead in the process of implementing synthetic biology into clinical practice. Since reducing the translational lag is essential for delivering the benefits of basic biomedical research to society at large and promoting global health, we advocate a moral obligation to accelerating translational research: the "translational imperative."
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Affiliation(s)
- Raheleh Heidari Feidt
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, Universität Basel, Bernoullistrasse 28, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marcello Ienca
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, Universität Basel, Bernoullistrasse 28, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
- Health Ethics & Policy Lab, Department of Health Sciences and Technology (D-HEST), ETH Zürich, Auf der Mauer 17, 8001, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Bernice Simone Elger
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, Universität Basel, Bernoullistrasse 28, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
- Center for Legal Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Marc Folcher
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE), ETH Zürich, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058, Basel, Switzerland.
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31
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Mansouri M, Strittmatter T, Fussenegger M. Light-Controlled Mammalian Cells and Their Therapeutic Applications in Synthetic Biology. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2019; 6:1800952. [PMID: 30643713 PMCID: PMC6325585 DOI: 10.1002/advs.201800952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Revised: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The ability to remote control the expression of therapeutic genes in mammalian cells in order to treat disease is a central goal of synthetic biology-inspired therapeutic strategies. Furthermore, optogenetics, a combination of light and genetic sciences, provides an unprecedented ability to use light for precise control of various cellular activities with high spatiotemporal resolution. Recent work to combine optogenetics and therapeutic synthetic biology has led to the engineering of light-controllable designer cells, whose behavior can be regulated precisely and noninvasively. This Review focuses mainly on non-neural optogenetic systems, which are often used in synthetic biology, and their applications in genetic programing of mammalian cells. Here, a brief overview of the optogenetic tool kit that is available to build light-sensitive mammalian cells is provided. Then, recently developed strategies for the control of designer cells with specific biological functions are summarized. Recent translational applications of optogenetically engineered cells are also highlighted, ranging from in vitro basic research to in vivo light-controlled gene therapy. Finally, current bottlenecks, possible solutions, and future prospects for optogenetics in synthetic biology are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maysam Mansouri
- Department of Biosystems Science and EngineeringETH ZurichMattenstrasse 26CH‐4058BaselSwitzerland
| | - Tobias Strittmatter
- Department of Biosystems Science and EngineeringETH ZurichMattenstrasse 26CH‐4058BaselSwitzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and EngineeringETH ZurichMattenstrasse 26CH‐4058BaselSwitzerland
- Faculty of ScienceUniversity of BaselMattenstrasse 26CH‐4058BaselSwitzerland
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32
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Christen M, Kamischke C, Kulasekara HD, Olivas KC, Kulasekara BR, Christen B, Kline T, Miller SI. Identification of Small-Molecule Modulators of Diguanylate Cyclase by FRET-Based High-Throughput Screening. Chembiochem 2018; 20:394-407. [PMID: 30395379 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.201800593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The bacterial second messenger cyclic diguanosine monophosphate (c-di-GMP) is a key regulator of cellular motility, the cell cycle, and biofilm formation with its resultant antibiotic tolerance, which can make chronic infections difficult to treat. Therefore, diguanylate cyclases, which regulate the spatiotemporal production of c-di-GMP, might be attractive drug targets for control of biofilm formation that is part of chronic infections. We present a FRET-based biochemical high-throughput screening approach coupled with detailed structure-activity studies to identify synthetic small-molecule modulators of the diguanylate cyclase DgcA from Caulobacter crescentus. We identified a set of seven small molecules that regulate DgcA enzymatic activity in the low-micromolar range. Subsequent structure-activity studies on selected scaffolds revealed a remarkable diversity of modulatory behavior, including slight chemical substitutions that reverse the effects from allosteric enzyme inhibition to activation. The compounds identified represent new chemotypes and are potentially developable into chemical genetic tools for the dissection of c-di-GMP signaling networks and alteration of c-di-GMP-associated phenotypes. In sum, our studies underline the importance of detailed mechanism-of-action studies for inhibitors of c-di-GMP signaling and demonstrate the complex interplay between synthetic small molecules and the regulatory mechanisms that control the activity of diguanylate cyclases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Christen
- Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich, Department of Biology, Auguste-Piccard-Hof 1, 8093, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Cassandra Kamischke
- University of Washington, Department of Microbiology, 1959 NE Pacific St., Box 357710, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Hemantha D Kulasekara
- University of Washington, Department of Microbiology, 1959 NE Pacific St., Box 357710, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Kathleen C Olivas
- Seattle Genetics, Inc., 21823 30th Drive SE, Bothell, WA, 98021, USA
| | - Bridget R Kulasekara
- University of Washington, Department of Genome Sciences, 1959 NE Pacific St., Box 357710, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Beat Christen
- Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich, Department of Biology, Otto-Stern-Weg-3, 8093, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Toni Kline
- Sutro Biopharma, 310 Utah Avenue, Suite 150, San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Samuel I Miller
- University of Washington, Department of Microbiology, 1959 NE Pacific St., Box 357710, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
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33
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Sankaran S, Del Campo A. Optoregulated Protein Release from an Engineered Living Material. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 3:e1800312. [PMID: 32627372 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.201800312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Developing materials to encapsulate and deliver functional proteins inside the body is a challenging yet rewarding task for therapeutic purposes. High production costs, mostly associated with the purification process, short-term stability in vivo, and controlled and prolonged release are major hurdles for the clinical application of protein-based biopharmaceuticals. In an attempt to overcome these hurdles, herein, the possibility of incorporating bacteria as protein factories into a material and externally controlling protein release using optogenetics is demonstrated. By engineering bacteria to express and secrete a red fluorescent protein in response to low doses of blue light irradiation and embedding them in agarose hydrogels, living materials are fabricated capable of releasing proteins into the surrounding medium when exposed to light. These bacterial hydrogels allow spatially confined protein expression and dosed protein release over several weeks, regulated by the area and extent of light exposure. The possibility of incorporating such complex functions in a material using relatively simple material and genetic engineering strategies highlights the immense potential and versatility offered by living materials for protein-based biopharmaceutical delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aránzazu Del Campo
- INM - Leibniz Institute for New Materials, Campus D2 2, 66123, Saarbrücken, Germany.,Chemistry Department, Saarland University, 66123, Saarbrücken, Germany
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34
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Bjarnsholt T, Buhlin K, Dufrêne YF, Gomelsky M, Moroni A, Ramstedt M, Rumbaugh KP, Schulte T, Sun L, Åkerlund B, Römling U. Biofilm formation - what we can learn from recent developments. J Intern Med 2018; 284:332-345. [PMID: 29856510 PMCID: PMC6927207 DOI: 10.1111/joim.12782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Although biofilms have been observed early in the history of microbial research, their impact has only recently been fully recognized. Biofilm infections, which contribute to up to 80% of human microbial infections, are associated with common human disorders, such as diabetes mellitus and poor dental hygiene, but also with medical implants. The associated chronic infections such as wound infections, dental caries and periodontitis significantly enhance morbidity, affect quality of life and can aid development of follow-up diseases such as cancer. Biofilm infections remain challenging to treat and antibiotic monotherapy is often insufficient, although some rediscovered traditional compounds have shown surprising efficiency. Innovative anti-biofilm strategies include application of anti-biofilm small molecules, intrinsic or external stimulation of production of reactive molecules, utilization of materials with antimicrobial properties and dispersion of biofilms by digestion of the extracellular matrix, also in combination with physical biofilm breakdown. Although basic principles of biofilm formation have been deciphered, the molecular understanding of the formation and structural organization of various types of biofilms has just begun to emerge. Basic studies of biofilm physiology have also resulted in an unexpected discovery of cyclic dinucleotide second messengers that are involved in interkingdom crosstalk via specific mammalian receptors. These findings even open up new venues for exploring novel anti-biofilm strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Bjarnsholt
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Costerton Biofilm Centre, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - K Buhlin
- Department of Dental Medicine, Division of Oral Facial Diagnostics and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Y F Dufrêne
- Institute of Life Sciences, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - M Gomelsky
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
| | - A Moroni
- Department of Biology and CNR-Istituto di Biofisica, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - M Ramstedt
- Department of Chemistry, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - K P Rumbaugh
- Departments of Surgery & Immunology & Molecular Microbiology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - T Schulte
- Department of Medicine Solna, Science for Life Laboratory, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - L Sun
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - B Åkerlund
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Unit of Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - U Römling
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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35
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Hughes RM. A compendium of chemical and genetic approaches to light-regulated gene transcription. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2018; 53:453-474. [PMID: 30040498 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2018.1487382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
On-cue regulation of gene transcription is an invaluable tool for the study of biological processes and the development and integration of next-generation therapeutics. Ideal reagents for the precise regulation of gene transcription should be nontoxic to the host system, highly tunable, and provide a high level of spatial and temporal control. Light, when coupled with protein or small molecule-linked photoresponsive elements, presents an attractive means of meeting the demands of an ideal system for regulating gene transcription. In this review, we cover recent developments in the burgeoning field of light-regulated gene transcription, covering both genetically encoded and small-molecule based strategies for optical regulation of transcription during the period 2012 till present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert M Hughes
- a Department of Chemistry , East Carolina University , Greenville , NC , USA
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36
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Abstract
Sensory photoreceptors underpin light-dependent adaptations of organismal physiology, development, and behavior in nature. Adapted for optogenetics, sensory photoreceptors become genetically encoded actuators and reporters to enable the noninvasive, spatiotemporally accurate and reversible control by light of cellular processes. Rooted in a mechanistic understanding of natural photoreceptors, artificial photoreceptors with customized light-gated function have been engineered that greatly expand the scope of optogenetics beyond the original application of light-controlled ion flow. As we survey presently, UV/blue-light-sensitive photoreceptors have particularly allowed optogenetics to transcend its initial neuroscience applications by unlocking numerous additional cellular processes and parameters for optogenetic intervention, including gene expression, DNA recombination, subcellular localization, cytoskeleton dynamics, intracellular protein stability, signal transduction cascades, apoptosis, and enzyme activity. The engineering of novel photoreceptors benefits from powerful and reusable design strategies, most importantly light-dependent protein association and (un)folding reactions. Additionally, modified versions of these same sensory photoreceptors serve as fluorescent proteins and generators of singlet oxygen, thereby further enriching the optogenetic toolkit. The available and upcoming UV/blue-light-sensitive actuators and reporters enable the detailed and quantitative interrogation of cellular signal networks and processes in increasingly more precise and illuminating manners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aba Losi
- Department of Mathematical, Physical and Computer Sciences , University of Parma , Parco Area delle Scienze 7/A-43124 Parma , Italy
| | - Kevin H Gardner
- Structural Biology Initiative, CUNY Advanced Science Research Center , New York , New York 10031 , United States.,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, City College of New York , New York , New York 10031 , United States.,Ph.D. Programs in Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Biology , The Graduate Center of the City University of New York , New York , New York 10016 , United States
| | - Andreas Möglich
- Lehrstuhl für Biochemie , Universität Bayreuth , 95447 Bayreuth , Germany.,Research Center for Bio-Macromolecules , Universität Bayreuth , 95447 Bayreuth , Germany.,Bayreuth Center for Biochemistry & Molecular Biology , Universität Bayreuth , 95447 Bayreuth , Germany
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37
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Sedlmayer F, Aubel D, Fussenegger M. Synthetic gene circuits for the detection, elimination and prevention of disease. Nat Biomed Eng 2018; 2:399-415. [PMID: 31011195 DOI: 10.1038/s41551-018-0215-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 03/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In living organisms, naturally evolved sensors that constantly monitor and process environmental cues trigger corrective actions that enable the organisms to cope with changing conditions. Such natural processes have inspired biologists to construct synthetic living sensors and signalling pathways, by repurposing naturally occurring proteins and by designing molecular building blocks de novo, for customized diagnostics and therapeutics. In particular, designer cells that employ user-defined synthetic gene circuits to survey disease biomarkers and to autonomously re-adjust unbalanced pathological states can coordinate the production of therapeutics, with controlled timing and dosage. Furthermore, tailored genetic networks operating in bacterial or human cells have led to cancer remission in experimental animal models, owing to the network's unprecedented specificity. Other applications of designer cells in infectious, metabolic and autoimmune diseases are also being explored. In this Review, we describe the biomedical applications of synthetic gene circuits in major disease areas, and discuss how the first genetically engineered devices developed on the basis of synthetic-biology principles made the leap from the laboratory to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferdinand Sedlmayer
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dominique Aubel
- IUTA Département Génie Biologique, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland. .,Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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38
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Using Light-Activated Enzymes for Modulating Intracellular c-di-GMP Levels in Bacteria. Methods Mol Biol 2018; 1657:169-186. [PMID: 28889294 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7240-1_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Signaling pathways involving second messenger c-di-GMP regulate various aspects of bacterial physiology and behavior. We describe the use of a red light-activated diguanylate cyclase (c-di-GMP synthase) and a blue light-activated c-di-GMP phosphodiesterase (hydrolase) for manipulating intracellular c-di-GMP levels in bacterial cells. We illustrate the application of these enzymes in regulating several c-di-GMP-dependent phenotypes, i.e., motility and biofilm phenotypes in E. coli and chemotactic behavior in the alphaproteobacterium Azospirillum brasilense. We expect these light-activated enzymes to be also useful in regulating c-di-GMP-dependent processes occurring at the fast timescale, for spatial control of bacterial populations, as well as for analyzing c-di-GMP-dependent phenomena at the single-cell level.
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39
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Polesskaya O, Baranova A, Bui S, Kondratev N, Kananykhina E, Nazarenko O, Shapiro T, Nardia FB, Kornienko V, Chandhoke V, Stadler I, Lanzafame R, Myakishev-Rempel M. Optogenetic regulation of transcription. BMC Neurosci 2018; 19:12. [PMID: 29745855 PMCID: PMC5998900 DOI: 10.1186/s12868-018-0411-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Optogenetics has become widely recognized for its success in real-time control of brain neurons by utilizing non-mammalian photosensitive proteins to open or close membrane channels. Here we review a less well known type of optogenetic constructs that employs photosensitive proteins to transduce the signal to regulate gene transcription, and its possible use in medicine. One of the problems with existing gene therapies is that they could remain active indefinitely while not allowing regulated transgene production on demand. Optogenetic regulation of transcription (ORT) could potentially be used to regulate the production of a biological drug in situ, by repeatedly applying light to the tissue, and inducing expression of therapeutic transgenes when needed. Red and near infrared wavelengths, which are capable of penetration into tissues, have potential for therapeutic applications. Existing ORT systems are reviewed herein with these considerations in mind.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ancha Baranova
- Research Center for Medical Genetics RAMS, Moscow, Russia.,Center for the Study of Chronic Metabolic and Rare Diseases, School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA.,Atlas Biomed Group, Moscow, Russia.,Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Sarah Bui
- Center for the Study of Chronic Metabolic and Rare Diseases, School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Vikas Chandhoke
- Center for the Study of Chronic Metabolic and Rare Diseases, School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | | | | | - Max Myakishev-Rempel
- Localized Therapeutics, LLC, San Diego, CA, USA. .,Vaccine Research Institute of San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA.
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40
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Kyriakakis P, Catanho M, Hoffner N, Thavarajah W, Hu VJ, Chao SS, Hsu A, Pham V, Naghavian L, Dozier LE, Patrick GN, Coleman TP. Biosynthesis of Orthogonal Molecules Using Ferredoxin and Ferredoxin-NADP + Reductase Systems Enables Genetically Encoded PhyB Optogenetics. ACS Synth Biol 2018; 7:706-717. [PMID: 29301067 PMCID: PMC5820651 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.7b00413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Transplanting metabolic reactions from one species into another has many uses as a research tool with applications ranging from optogenetics to crop production. Ferredoxin (Fd), the enzyme that most often supplies electrons to these reactions, is often overlooked when transplanting enzymes from one species to another because most cells already contain endogenous Fd. However, we have shown that the production of chromophores used in Phytochrome B (PhyB) optogenetics is greatly enhanced in mammalian cells by expressing bacterial and plant Fds with ferredoxin-NADP+ reductases (FNR). We delineated the rate limiting factors and found that the main metabolic precursor, heme, was not the primary limiting factor for producing either the cyanobacterial or plant chromophores, phycocyanobilin or phytochromobilin, respectively. In fact, Fd is limiting, followed by Fd+FNR and finally heme. Using these findings, we optimized the PCB production system and combined it with a tissue penetrating red/far-red sensing PhyB optogenetic gene switch in animal cells. We further characterized this system in several mammalian cell lines using red and far-red light. Importantly, we found that the light-switchable gene system remains active for several hours upon illumination, even with a short light pulse, and requires very small amounts of light for maximal activation. Boosting chromophore production by matching metabolic pathways with specific ferredoxin systems will enable the unparalleled use of the many PhyB optogenetic tools and has broader implications for optimizing synthetic metabolic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip Kyriakakis
- Department
of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman
Drive, La Jolla, California 92093-0412, United States
| | - Marianne Catanho
- Department
of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman
Drive, La Jolla, California 92093-0412, United States
| | - Nicole Hoffner
- Neurosciences
Graduate Program, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman
Drive, La Jolla, California 92093-0412, United States
| | - Walter Thavarajah
- Department
of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman
Drive, La Jolla, California 92093-0412, United States
| | - Vincent J. Hu
- Department
of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman
Drive, La Jolla, California 92093-0412, United States
| | - Syh-Shiuan Chao
- Frank
H. Better School of Medicine, Quinnipiac University, 370 Bassett Road, North Haven, Connecticut 06473, United States
| | - Athena Hsu
- School
of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093-0412, United States
| | - Vivian Pham
- Roy J. and
Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, 451 Newton Road, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, United States
| | - Ladan Naghavian
- Department
of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman
Drive, La Jolla, California 92093-0412, United States
| | - Lara E. Dozier
- Section
of Neurobiology, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0347, United States
| | - Gentry N. Patrick
- Section
of Neurobiology, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0347, United States
| | - Todd P. Coleman
- Department
of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman
Drive, La Jolla, California 92093-0412, United States
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41
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Wang Y, Wang M, Dong K, Ye H. Engineering Mammalian Designer Cells for the Treatment of Metabolic Diseases. Biotechnol J 2017; 13:e1700160. [PMID: 29144600 DOI: 10.1002/biot.201700160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Revised: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic biology applies engineering principles to biological systems and has significantly advanced the design of synthetic gene circuits that can reprogram cell activities to perform new functions. The ability to engineer mammalian designer cells with robust therapeutic behaviors has brought new opportunities for treating metabolic diseases. In this review, the authors highlight the most recent advances in the development of synthetic designer cells uploaded with open- or closed-loop gene circuits for the treatment of metabolic disorders including diabetes, hypertension, hyperuricemia, and obesity, and discuss the current technologies and future perspectives in applying these designer cells for clinical applications. In the future, more and more rationally designed cells will be constructed and revolutionized to treat a number of metabolic disorders in an intelligent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yidan Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Meiyan Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Kaili Dong
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Haifeng Ye
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
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42
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Michel F, Folcher M. Optogenerapy: When bio-electronic implant enters the modern syringe era. Porto Biomed J 2017; 2:145-149. [PMID: 32258609 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbj.2017.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Resort to medications dates back million years ago with the use of medicinal plants. In the nineteenth century, significant contributions in medicine appeared in different domains, among which the invention of a specific drug delivery device; the syringe. Nowadays, injection therapy of bio-manufactured drugs is routine practice for chronic diseases but remains constraining and painful. New emerging advanced therapies invest in genetic, electronics and cell-based therapy for addressing unmet needs for the caregivers and the patient. As digital process in health (eHealth) gains momentum, connected advanced bio-electronic devices now offer new strategies for personalized injection therapies. In this review, we take a journey along the genesis path of a new drug delivery system: the Optogenerapy, a synergy between optogenetic and gene therapy. Inside a bio-electronic implant, electronics and optogenetics are interfaced by light as a traceless inducer signal. By controlling a synthetic optogenetic pathway in the cell, therapeutics delivery can be fine-tuned with a precise spatiotemporal control. The technology holds promise of a new modern syringe era capable of producing a drug of interest at will directly inside the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanny Michel
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marc Folcher
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Switzerland
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43
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Beaudry H, Daou I, Ribeiro-da-Silva A, Séguéla P. Will optogenetics be used to treat chronic pain patients? Pain Manag 2017; 7:269-278. [PMID: 28726577 DOI: 10.2217/pmt-2016-0055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain affects a third of the population and current treatments produce limited relief and severe side effects. An alternative strategy to decrease pain would be to directly modulate somatosensory pathways using optogenetics. Optogenetics involves the use of genetically encoded and optically active proteins, namely opsins, to control neuronal circuits. In preclinical animal models, optical silencing of peripheral nociceptors has been shown to alleviate both inflammatory and neuropathic pain. An opsin-based gene therapy to treat chronic pain patients is not ready yet, but encouraging advances have been made in optical and viral technology. In view of the increasing burden of chronic pain in our aging society, innovative analgesic approaches based on optogenetics are definitely worth exploring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hélène Beaudry
- Department of Neurology & Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,The Alan Edwards Centre for Research on Pain, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Ihab Daou
- Department of Neurology & Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,The Alan Edwards Centre for Research on Pain, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Alfredo Ribeiro-da-Silva
- The Alan Edwards Centre for Research on Pain, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Philippe Séguéla
- Department of Neurology & Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,The Alan Edwards Centre for Research on Pain, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
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44
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Lyu Y, Cui D, Sun H, Miao Y, Duan H, Pu K. Dendronized Semiconducting Polymer as Photothermal Nanocarrier for Remote Activation of Gene Expression. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201705543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Lyu
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering; Nanyang Technological University; Singapore 637457 Singapore
| | - Dong Cui
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering; Nanyang Technological University; Singapore 637457 Singapore
| | - He Sun
- School of Biological Science; Nanyang Technological University; Singapore 637551 Singapore
| | - Yansong Miao
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering; Nanyang Technological University; Singapore 637457 Singapore
- School of Biological Science; Nanyang Technological University; Singapore 637551 Singapore
| | - Hongwei Duan
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering; Nanyang Technological University; Singapore 637457 Singapore
| | - Kanyi Pu
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering; Nanyang Technological University; Singapore 637457 Singapore
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45
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Lyu Y, Cui D, Sun H, Miao Y, Duan H, Pu K. Dendronized Semiconducting Polymer as Photothermal Nanocarrier for Remote Activation of Gene Expression. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2017. [PMID: 28628725 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201705543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Regulation of transgene systems is needed to develop innovative medicines. However, noninvasive remote control of gene expression has been rarely developed and remains challenging. We herein synthesize a near-infrared (NIR) absorbing dendronized semiconducting polymer (DSP) and utilize it as a photothermal nanocarrier not only to efficiently deliver genes but also to spatiotemporally control gene expression in conjunction with heat-inducible promoter. DSP has a high photothermal conversion efficiency (44.2 %) at 808 nm, permitting fast transduction of NIR light into thermal signals for intracellular activation of transcription. Such a DSP-mediated remote activation can rapidly and safely result in 25- and 4.5-fold increases in the expression levels of proteins in living cells and mice, respectively. This study thus provides a promising approach to optically regulate transgene systems for on-demand therapeutic transgene dosing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Lyu
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637457, Singapore
| | - Dong Cui
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637457, Singapore
| | - He Sun
- School of Biological Science, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637551, Singapore
| | - Yansong Miao
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637457, Singapore.,School of Biological Science, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637551, Singapore
| | - Hongwei Duan
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637457, Singapore
| | - Kanyi Pu
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637457, Singapore
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46
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Wang M, Yu Y, Shao J, Heng BC, Ye H. Engineering synthetic optogenetic networks for biomedical applications. QUANTITATIVE BIOLOGY 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s40484-017-0105-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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47
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Lebedev MA, Nicolelis MAL. Brain-Machine Interfaces: From Basic Science to Neuroprostheses and Neurorehabilitation. Physiol Rev 2017; 97:767-837. [PMID: 28275048 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00027.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 235] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain-machine interfaces (BMIs) combine methods, approaches, and concepts derived from neurophysiology, computer science, and engineering in an effort to establish real-time bidirectional links between living brains and artificial actuators. Although theoretical propositions and some proof of concept experiments on directly linking the brains with machines date back to the early 1960s, BMI research only took off in earnest at the end of the 1990s, when this approach became intimately linked to new neurophysiological methods for sampling large-scale brain activity. The classic goals of BMIs are 1) to unveil and utilize principles of operation and plastic properties of the distributed and dynamic circuits of the brain and 2) to create new therapies to restore mobility and sensations to severely disabled patients. Over the past decade, a wide range of BMI applications have emerged, which considerably expanded these original goals. BMI studies have shown neural control over the movements of robotic and virtual actuators that enact both upper and lower limb functions. Furthermore, BMIs have also incorporated ways to deliver sensory feedback, generated from external actuators, back to the brain. BMI research has been at the forefront of many neurophysiological discoveries, including the demonstration that, through continuous use, artificial tools can be assimilated by the primate brain's body schema. Work on BMIs has also led to the introduction of novel neurorehabilitation strategies. As a result of these efforts, long-term continuous BMI use has been recently implicated with the induction of partial neurological recovery in spinal cord injury patients.
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48
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Sun W, Zhang W, Zhang C, Mao M, Zhao Y, Chen X, Yang Y. Light-induced protein degradation in human-derived cells. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2017; 487:241-246. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2017.04.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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49
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Shao J, Xue S, Yu G, Yu Y, Yang X, Bai Y, Zhu S, Yang L, Yin J, Wang Y, Liao S, Guo S, Xie M, Fussenegger M, Ye H. Smartphone-controlled optogenetically engineered cells enable semiautomatic glucose homeostasis in diabetic mice. Sci Transl Med 2017; 9:9/387/eaal2298. [DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aal2298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 04/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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50
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Ausländer S, Ausländer D, Fussenegger M. Synthetische Biologie - die Synthese der Biologie. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201609229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Simon Ausländer
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering; ETH Zürich; Mattenstrasse 26 4058 Basel Schweiz
| | - David Ausländer
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering; ETH Zürich; Mattenstrasse 26 4058 Basel Schweiz
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering; ETH Zürich; Mattenstrasse 26 4058 Basel Schweiz
- Faculty of Science; Universität Basel; Mattenstrasse 26 4058 Basel Schweiz
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