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Updated: Jan 26, 2026
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Live Cell Imaging to Assess the Dynamics of Metaphase Timing and Cell Fate Following Mitotic Spindle Perturbations
Published on: September 20, 2019
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Dynamic Continuum of Molecular Assemblies for Controlling Cell Fates
Huaimin Wang1, Zhaoqianqi Feng1, Bing Xu1
1Department of Chemistry, Brandeis University, 415 South Street, Waltham, MA, 02454, USA.
Chembiochem : a European Journal of Chemical Biology
|April 9, 2019
Summary
Researchers developed a new method using in situ reactions to control the self-assembly of small molecules. This enzyme-instructed self-assembly (EISA) technique can induce specific cellular changes like morphogenesis or apoptosis in live cells.
Area of Science:
- Biomolecular Engineering
- Synthetic Biology
- Cellular Dynamics
Background:
- Biological systems utilize dynamic bio-macromolecular assemblies for optimized function, controlled by precise biological cues.
- Spatiotemporal control over synthetic molecule self-assembly within live cells remains a significant challenge for functional applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce in situ reactions as a method for spatiotemporal control of small molecule self-assembly.
- To demonstrate the application of enzyme-instructed self-assembly (EISA) for inducing cell morphogenesis and apoptosis.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing enzyme-instructed self-assembly (EISA) to construct dynamic assemblies from small molecules.
- Applying EISA for precise control over cellular processes, including morphogenesis and apoptosis induction.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated the formation of functional higher-order assemblies through controlled in situ reactions.
- Showcased the ability of EISA to precisely regulate cell morphogenesis and induce apoptosis.
Conclusions:
- In situ reactions offer a powerful strategy for spatiotemporal control of synthetic molecule self-assembly.
- Enzyme-instructed self-assembly (EISA) provides a viable approach for engineering cellular functions, such as morphogenesis and apoptosis.
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