Minimizing interference due to genetic manipulation

Abstract

Synthetic gene networks are the functional genetic 'programs' that will form the basis of increasingly sophisticated engineered organisms, cells and tissues. Important factors to consider in biologically engineering circuits are modularity and orthogonality of the components. We explore these factors experimentally by using TALEs as a synthetic transcription factor. We also designed an algorithm to find optimal locations to insert synthetic gene networks into the cell so that interference is minimized and orthogonality is maximized. Finally, we developed a method for encrypting and decrypting these genetic 'programs' for the protection of intellectual property. Together these projects explore ways of minimizing unwanted effects due to genetic manipulation.