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Optimization of cell-free biosensors for synthetic biology

AMIR PANDI AND OLIVIER BORKOWSKI | September 3, 2019 | 86 views

Cell-free synthetic biology recently became a branch of synthetic biology with dedicated research groups and conferences. Cell-free systems present a great potential for synthetic biology, allowing for quick in vitro transcription-translation from circular or linear DNA. The most common cell-free systems nowadays are lysate-based cell-free systems which are made by combining cell extract plus reaction buffers. These systems were initially used for fundamental discoveries in molecular biology (study of the genetic code and translation process) and later on to produce recombinant protein. In the past few years, cell-free attracted synthetic biologists’ attention as a platform for high-throughput characterization and prototyping of natural and synthetic biological circuitry. As advantages of cell-free systems we can be list: Non-GMO hosts, absence of growth dependent challenges, lower level of noise, less susceptibility to toxicity, simple cloning as genes can be cloned separately or possibility of using linear DNA (PCR product), high adjustability by varying the concentration of DNA parts or buffer elements.

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Article | February 11, 2020

In today’s biotechnology landscape, to be competitive, meet regulations, and achieve market demands, “we must apply Bioprocessing 4.0,” said Igor Fisch, PhD, CEO, Selexis. In fact, in the last decade, “Selexis has evolved from cloning by limiting dilution to automated cell selection to nanofluidic chips and from monoclonality assessment by statistical calculation to proprietary bioinformatic analysis,” he added. Single-use processing systems are an expanding part of the biomanufacturing world; as such, they are a major component of Bioprocessing 4.0. “At Selexis, we use single use throughout our cell line development workflow. Currently, we have incorporated single-use automated bioprocessing systems such as ambr® and the Beacon® optofluidic platform for accelerated cell line development. By using these systems and optimizing our parameters, we were able to achieve high titers in shake flasks. Additionally, the Beacon systems integrate miniaturized cell culture with high-throughput liquid handling automation and cell imaging. This allows us to control, adjust, and monitor programs at the same time,” noted Fisch.

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Forty Seven, Inc.

With a passion for pioneering breakthrough solutions, we are committed to the advancement of immuno-oncology through the engagement of new and complementary phagocytic pathways that enhance anti-tumor efficacy and selectivity.

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Read More

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