In a groundbreaking study published in Nature Chemistry, UNC-Chapel Hill researcher Ronit Freeman and her team successfully manipulated DNA and proteins to create cells that closely resemble and function like cells found in the human body. This achievement has significant implications for regenerative medicine, drug delivery systems, and diagnostic tools, as it opens up possibilities for engineering fabrics and tissues that can respond dynamically to changes in their environment. Cells and tissues are composed of proteins that form the cytoskeleton, a framework critical for cell function and flexibility. By using a new programmable peptide-DNA technology developed by Freeman’s lab, the researchers were able to construct cells with functional cytoskeletons that can change shape and react to their surroundings.
Traditionally, DNA does not play a role in the cytoskeleton structure of cells. However, by reprogramming DNA sequences to act as an architectural material that binds peptides together, the researchers were able to create synthetic cells with dynamic cytoskeletons. These programmed materials, when placed in a water droplet, self-assembled into structures with the ability to change shape. The synthetic cells built by the Freeman Lab demonstrated stability even at extreme temperatures, such as 122 degrees Fahrenheit, suggesting the potential to manufacture cells with exceptional capabilities in harsh environments. This breakthrough in synthetic cell technology allows for the creation of cells designed to perform specific functions and adapt to external stressors.
Freeman emphasizes that their synthetic cell materials are task-oriented rather than built to last, enabling them to modify themselves to serve different functions as needed. By incorporating various peptide and DNA designs, the application of these materials can be customized for different purposes, such as in fabrics or tissues. The ability to program DNA in this way allows for the development of cells with tailored responses to external stimuli, paving the way for innovative applications in biotechnology and medicine. The integration of these synthetic cell technologies with other advancements in the field holds the potential to revolutionize various industries.
The research conducted by Freeman and her team not only allows for the replication of biological functions but also the creation of materials that surpass natural biological capabilities. By understanding the fundamentals of life through synthetic cell technology, scientists can explore new possibilities in material design and cell engineering that could lead to groundbreaking advancements in various fields. The ability to fine-tune a cell’s response to its environment and create materials with extraordinary capabilities in extreme conditions highlights the versatility and potential applications of this innovative technology. The development of these synthetic cells offers a glimpse into the future of materials science and biotechnology, with endless possibilities for creating advanced materials and technologies.
