Introduction to Research Seminar

We use the translation machinery of a cell-free expression system to reconstruct genetic circuits in vitro. Expression of elementary gene circuits can be carried out in batch mode or continuous mode to study quantitatively the properties of genetic circuits. The extract can be also encapsulated in synthetic phospholipids vesicles. This system is used as a model of protocell programmable with DNA. One of the challenges of this engineering approach is to reach homeostasis by (1) maintaining efficient in vitro expression on long period of time by feeding the vesicles, (2) degrading selectively the synthesized messengers and proteins. Perspectives and limitations of this approach will be discussed.