Synthetic mammalian signaling circuits for robust cell population control

US11999964B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · US

Inventors

• Yitong Ma · Pasadena, US
• Mark W. Budde · Arcadia, US
• Michaelle N. Mayalu · Pasadena, US
• Michael B. Elowitz · Los Angeles, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Aug 27, 2021
• Grant date: Jun 4, 2024
• Expiry date: Nov 24, 2041

Classification

• Technology area (CPC C): Chemistry; Metallurgy
• CPC primary: C12N2810/10
• WIPO field: Biotechnology
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

Disclosed herein include circuits, compositions, nucleic acids, populations, systems, and methods enabling cells to sense, control, and/or respond to their own population size. In some embodiments, an orthogonal communication channel allows specific communication between engineered cells. Also described herein, in some embodiments, is an evolutionarily robust ‘paradoxical’ regulatory circuit architecture in which orthogonal signals both stimulate and inhibit net cell growth at different signal concentrations. In some embodiments, engineered cells autonomously reach designed densities and/or activate therapeutic or safety programs at specific density thresholds. Methods of treatment are also provided in some embodiments.