Two-component system for Biosensing

NU 2023-043

INVENTORS

• Neha Kamat*
• Justin Alexander Peruzzi

SHORT DESCRIPTION

This technology leverages bacterial two-component systems to enable transmembrane signal transduction in synthetic membranes, offering a novel platform for biosensing and therapeutic applications.

BACKGROUND

Signal transduction across cellular membranes is crucial for sensing and responding to various chemical and physical stimuli. By creating synthetic systems that replicate these cellular signaling processes, there is potential to develop advanced biosensors and therapeutic tools. Traditional methods often struggle with integrating complex signaling pathways in synthetic environments, limiting their applicability in real-world scenarios.

ABSTRACT

The invention presents a pioneering approach to engineering transmembrane signaling in synthetic membranes using bacterial two-component systems, specifically the NarX-NarL nitrate-sensing system. This system is recreated outside of cellular environments using cell-free protein expression. By tuning the biophysical properties of synthetic membranes, the performance and sensitivity of the system are optimized. The technology allows for the modification of the sensing domain to detect a variety of ligands, broadening its potential applications in environmental monitoring and drug delivery. This platform not only enhances sensing capabilities but also supports the construction of cell-mimetic drug delivery vehicles.

APPLICATIONS

• Sensing environmental contaminants

• Sensing ligands in vivo

• Constructing cell-mimetic drug delivery vehicles

ADVANTAGES

• Enable diverse biosensing capabilities.

• Customizable sensitivity and performance

PUBLICATIONS

Justin A. Peruzzi, Nina R. Galvez and Neha P. Kamat, "Engineering transmembrane signal transduction in synthetic membranes using two-component systems", Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), May 1, 2023.

IP STATUS

US Patent Pending