Evolutionary approach to building a synthetic cell (BEP/MEP)
Short description:
smart DNA libraries inside liposomes using a cell-free expression system (PURE system) and sort the vesicles displaying improved phenotypes, so we can identify the responsible genotypes. Because the genetic modules essential to a synthetic cell are linked to multidimensional phenotypes, including dynamic behaviours, cell shapes and protein localizations, we are developing an imaging-based vesicle selection technique. Possible student project directions: (1) develop microscopy-based method to sort gene-expressing liposomes (wet lab), (2) perform directed evolution experiments to optimize synthetic cell modules (wet lab), (3) train and test AI-based object detection/video classification algorithms (dry lab).
Techniques/methods applied in the project:
Project can be adjusted to student’s interests:
- Cell-free gene expression
- Liposome preparation
- Microscopy
- Flow cytometry
- PCR/qPCR
- DNA library design and synthesis
- AI-based object detection/video classification
Relevant publication for the project:
Abil, Z. & Danelon, C. Roadmap to Building a Cell: An Evolutionary Approach. Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology 8, (2020).
Contact
Marijn van den Brink (M.vandenBrink@tudelft.nl ) and Prof. Dr. Gijsje Koenderink (G.H.Koenderink@tudelft.nl)