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Using Synthetic Biology to Engineer Living Cells That Interface with Programmable Materials
Published on: March 9, 2017
Synthetic biology: new engineering rules for an emerging discipline
Ernesto Andrianantoandro1, Subhayu Basu, David K Karig
1Department of Electrical Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA.
Molecular Systems Biology
|June 2, 2006
Summary
Synthetic biology engineers artificial biological systems for research and applications. New strategies are needed to design predictable and reliable engineered cells by considering cellular context and using cell populations.
Area of Science:
- Synthetic biology as an emerging engineering discipline.
Background:
- Engineering complex artificial biological systems is crucial for understanding natural phenomena and developing novel applications.
- Synthetic biology integrates principles from biology and engineering to create novel biological functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the fundamental features of synthetic biology as a distinct engineering field.
- To discuss methodologies for designing and constructing engineered cells with new capabilities.
- To reflect on the unique aspects of synthetic biology compared to other engineering disciplines.
Main Methods:
- Developing a hierarchical framework for biological design (devices, modules, cells, multicellular systems).
- Extending classical engineering strategies (standardization, decoupling, abstraction) for biological applications.
- Incorporating cellular context into the functional definition of biological devices and modules.
Main Results:
- Classical engineering strategies require adaptation for biological systems due to inherent characteristics of biological components.
- Predictability and reliability in synthetic biology necessitate considering cellular context and employing population-level engineering.
- Rational redesign and directed evolution are key for optimizing engineered biological systems.
Conclusions:
- Synthetic biology presents unique challenges and opportunities in designing complex living systems.
- Future development requires innovative approaches that account for biological complexity and context.
- Focusing on cell populations rather than individual cells is essential for robust biological engineering.
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