TXTL-based approach to synthetic cells
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 28, 2026

Protocols for Implementing an Escherichia coli Based TX-TL Cell-Free Expression System for Synthetic Biology
Published on: September 16, 2013
Jonathan Garamella1, David Garenne1, Vincent Noireaux1
1School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States.
Abstract:
Cell-free transcription-translation (TXTL) has recently emerged as a versatile technology to engineer biological systems. In this chapter, we show how an all E. coli TXTL system can be used to build synthetic cell prototypes. We describe methods to encapsulate TXTL reactions in cell-sized liposomes, with an emphasis on the composition of the external solution and lipid bilayer. Cell-free expression is quantitatively described in bulk reactions and liposomes for three proteins: the soluble reporter protein eGFP, the membrane proteins alpha-hemolysin (AH) from Staphylococcus aureus, and the mechanosensitive channel of large conductance (MscL) from E. coli.
Related Concept Videos
Synthetic Biology
Golden rice
Golden rice is a genetically modified...
Synthetic Disvision of Polynomials
Opioid Analgesics: Synthetic and Semisynthetic Opioids
Frustration and Conflict: Approach-Approach, Approach-Avoidance
One common type of conflict is the Approach–Approach Conflict. In this case, a person faces two desirable...
Actuarial Approach
Consider the example of a high-risk surgical procedure with significant early-stage mortality. A two-year clinical study is conducted,...
Information Processing Approach

