Lunch at 12:30pm in HSRB II, N100 before the seminar. 

Laura Segatori, Ph.D
Professor at Rice University, Departments of Bioengineering, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biosciences 

Nov. 15, 1 p.m.
HSRB II, N100 

Cannot attend in person? Join us via the Zoom virtual meeting link: 

Meeting ID: 974 2121 9805

Password: 556677

Title:

Programming cellular sensors with genetic control systems

Abstract:

Progress in synthetic biology has enabled the construction of designer cells that sense biological inputs and, in response, activate user-defined biomolecular programs. Such engineered cells provide unique opportunities for treating a wide variety of diseases. Current strategies mostly rely on cell-surface receptor systems engineered to convert binding interactions into activation of a transcriptional program. Genetic control systems are emerging as an appealing alternative to receptor-based sensors as they overcome the need for receptor engineering and result in cellular behaviors that operate over therapeutically relevant timescales. Genetic control systems include synthetic gene networks, RNA-based sensors, and post-translational tools. These technologies present fundamental challenges, including precise integration with innate pathways, the need for parts orthogonal to existing circuitries, and the metabolic burden induced by such complex cell engineering endeavors. Through iterations of experimental measurements and predictive modeling, we developed a platform technology for quantitative, multiplexed profiling of gene expression signatures with high sensitivity and dynamic resolution. This talk describes efforts to deploy this technology to design cellular sensors with exquisite feedback control systems for cell therapies and biomanufacturing applications.