This technology is a cellular signaling system based on G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR)/peptide ligand pairs for orthogonal communication between cells.
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.
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.
Patent Pending (US20220119825)
IR CU17055, CU18278
Licensing Contact: Joan Martinez
