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Designing Spatially Distributed Gene Regulatory Networks To Elicit Contrasting Patterns.

ABSTRACT: Pattern formation and differential interactions are important for microbial consortia to divide labor and perform complex functions. To obtain further insight into such interactions, we present a computational method for simulating physically separated microbial colonies, each implementing different gene regulatory networks. We validate our theory by experimentally demonstrating control over gene expression patterns in a diffusion-mediated lateral inhibition circuit. We highlight the importance of spatial arrangement as a control knob for modulating system behavior. Our systematic approach provides a foundation for future applications that require understanding and engineering of multistrain microbial communities for sophisticated, synergistic functions.

SUBMITTER: Tei M

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6343107 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

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Designing Spatially Distributed Gene Regulatory Networks To Elicit Contrasting Patterns.

Tei Mika M Perkins Melinda Liu ML Hsia Justin J Arcak Murat M Arkin Adam Paul AP

ACS synthetic biology 20181224 1

Pattern formation and differential interactions are important for microbial consortia to divide labor and perform complex functions. To obtain further insight into such interactions, we present a computational method for simulating physically separated microbial colonies, each implementing different gene regulatory networks. We validate our theory by experimentally demonstrating control over gene expression patterns in a diffusion-mediated lateral inhibition circuit. We highlight the importance ...[more]

PMID: 30540439

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