Synthetic mRNA-Based Systems in Mammalian Cells

Adv Biosyst. 2020 May;4(5):e1900247. doi: 10.1002/adbi.201900247. Epub 2020 Mar 2.

Abstract

Living organisms are programmed to perform multiple functions by sensing intra- and extra-cellular environments and by controlling gene expressions. Synthetic biologists aim to program cells by mimicking, designing, and constructing genetic circuits. Synthetic mRNA-based genetic switches and circuits have attracted attention for future therapeutic applications because of their safety and functional diversity. Here, the mRNA-based switches and circuits that detect specific microRNAs or proteins expressed in a target cell to control transgene expression and cell fate are reviewed. Future perspectives of artificial RNA systems for cell engineering will also be addressed.

Keywords: RNA switch; RNA-binding proteins; gene circuits; mRNA; microRNA; synthetic biology; translational regulation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Engineering*
  • Gene Regulatory Networks*
  • Genes, Synthetic*
  • Humans
  • MicroRNAs* / genetics
  • MicroRNAs* / metabolism
  • RNA, Messenger* / genetics
  • RNA, Messenger* / metabolism
  • Synthetic Biology*

Substances

  • MicroRNAs
  • RNA, Messenger