Towards programmable plant genetic circuits. (2nd August 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Medford, June I.; Prasad, Ashok
• Is Part Of: Plant journal. Volume 87:Number 1(2016:Jul.)
• Page Start: 139
• Page End: 148
• Publication Date: 2016-08-02
• Subjects: synthetic biology -- genetic circuits -- synthetic gene circuits -- transfer functions -- genetic toggle switches -- logic gates; Plant molecular biology -- Periodicals; Plant cells and tissues -- Periodicals; Botany -- Periodicals; 580
• DOI: 10.1111/tpj.13235
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0960-7412

Abstract

Summary: Synthetic biology enables the construction of genetic circuits with predictable gene functions in plants. Detailed quantitative descriptions of the transfer function or input–output function for genetic parts (promoters, 5′ and 3′ untranslated regions, etc.) are collected. These data are then used in computational simulations to determine their robustness and desired properties, thereby enabling the best components to be selected for experimental testing in plants. In addition, the process forms an iterative workflow which allows vast improvement to validated elements with sub‐optimal function. These processes enable computational functions such as digital logic in living plants and follow the pathway of technological advances which took us from vacuum tubes to cell phones. Significance Statement: Plant breeding and selection methods have greatly improved agriculture, but are limited to traits found in nature. Here we review how synthetic biology will allow the design of new plant traits with predictable functions, by following computational and digital logic approaches analogous to those that enabled development of today's electronics.