Scalable intercellular signaling language for yeast
This technology is a cellular signaling system based on G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR)/peptide ligand pairs for orthogonal communication between cells.
Unmet Need: Easily adaptable and scalable cell signaling for cellular networks
Existing methods for cell-to-cell signaling are based on quorum sensing or synthetic receptors; however, neither approach is scalable, and both are limited to relatively short communication ranges. Without a robust intercellular signaling language, biotechnological approaches that require higher-order cell signaling networks for temporal control of gene expression remain limited.
The Technology: Scalable GPCR/peptide-based intercellular signaling language
This technology is a platform that utilizes an array of identified G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR)/peptide pairs as an intercellular communication system for yeasts and other fungi. Genetically engineered cells express at least one GPCR and GPCR peptide ligand, which, upon secretion by one cell and binding to another, provides a specific response. These pairs can be applied to form a decision architecture with switch-like or graded cellular responses. Through combinations of GPCRs and GPCR ligands, a complex and scalable higher-order intercellular network can be developed.
Applications:
- Platform to biologically generate materials, fuels, or pharmaceuticals
- System for performing computations with biological sensors and logic gates
- Screening platform for drug development and toxicology
- Precision diagnostics tool
Advantages:
- Scalable intercellular signaling language
- Easily adaptable to existing synthetic biology tools
- Allows switch-like or gradient responses
- Tunable by modifying only the peptide ligands
- Long-range signaling capability
- Able to form high-order networks
- Applicable to mammalian GPCRs
Lead Inventor:
Patent Information:
Patent Pending (US20220119825)
Related Publications:
Tech Ventures Reference:
IR CU17055, CU18278
Licensing Contact: Joan Martinez