Third Generation Whole-Cell Sensing Systems: Synthetic Biology Inside, Nanomaterial Outside

Mingzhang Guo; Kunlun Huang; Wentao Xu

doi:10.1016/j.tibtech.2020.10.002

Third Generation Whole-Cell Sensing Systems: Synthetic Biology Inside, Nanomaterial Outside

Trends Biotechnol. 2020 Oct 23:S0167-7799(20)30262-6. doi: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2020.10.002. Online ahead of print.

Authors

Mingzhang Guo¹, Kunlun Huang², Wentao Xu³

Affiliations

¹ Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China.
² Key Laboratory of Safety Assessment of Genetically Modified Organism (Food Safety) (MOA), College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China.
³ Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China; Key Laboratory of Safety Assessment of Genetically Modified Organism (Food Safety) (MOA), College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China. Electronic address: xuwentao@cau.edu.cn.

PMID: 34756379
DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2020.10.002

Abstract

Whole-cell sensing systems (WCSSs) are highly anticipated in the field of on-site detection. However, due to their low specificity, poor stability, and potential environmental problems, their commercial application is unrealistic. Recently, synthetic biology and nanomaterials have provided potential solutions to these problems, propelling WCSSs into a new generation. Synthetic biology provides a complete solution for the intelligent design and assembly of elements, modules, and genetic circuits. Nanomaterials covering the exterior of the cells provide stable protection, remote control capability, and catalytic ability for the WCSSs, and they can limit the horizontal transfer of genetic elements. These advancements enable personalized customization, intelligent control, and self-destruction in the next generation of cell sensors, promoting their industrialization.

Keywords: nanomaterials; synthetic biology; whole-cell sensing systems.

Publication types

Review