Engineered Protein Machines: Emergent Tools for Synthetic Biology. Issue 1 (21st January 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Glasscock, Cameron J.; Lucks, Julius B.; DeLisa, Matthew P.
• Is Part Of: Cell chemical biology. Volume 23:Issue 1(2016)
• Page Start: 45
• Page End: 56
• Publication Date: 2016-01-21
• Subjects: Biochemistry -- Periodicals; 572.05
• DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2015.12.004
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2451-9456

Abstract

Abstract : Nature has evolved an array of intricate protein assemblies that work together to perform the chemistry that maintains life. These protein machines function with exquisite specificity and coordination to accomplish their tasks, from DNA and RNA synthesis to protein folding and post-translational modifications. Despite their complexity, synthetic biologists have succeeded in redesigning many aspects of these molecular machines. For example, natural DNA polymerases have now been engineered to catalyze the synthesis of alternative genetic polymers called XNAs, orthogonal RNA polymerases and ribosomes have been engineered to enable the construction of genetic logic gates, and protein biogenesis machinery such as chaperonins and protein translocons have been repurposed to improve folding and expression of recombinant proteins. In this Review, we highlight the progress made in understanding, engineering, and repurposing bacterial protein machines for use in synthetic biology and biotechnology. Highlights: Most fundamental biological processes are performed by protein complexes or machines Synthetic biologists have engineered cellular machines with new or enhanced functions Key engineering targets include the machinery for making DNA/RNA and proteins Engineered and repurposed cellular machinery enables a broad array of biotechnologies Abstract : On many different levels, life is fueled, maintained, propagated, and enriched through action of protein assemblies. Glasscock et al. review the field of protein engineering as it relates to complex protein machines and review how better ways to construct and deconstruct, wire and re-wire these systems provides improved tools for synthetic biology and biotechnology.