Mammalian Synthetic Gene Networks

Synthetic gene networks enable the programming of living cells to perform novel behaviors. Mammalian synthetic gene networks have largely been used as research tools to probe cellular function and more recently to engineer therapeutic capabilities. To create these networks researchers have developed a vast array of DNA -encoded parts that can serve as sensors, computational regulators, and actuators. Many of these gene circuit components have varying temporal characteristics and sensitivities making them well - suited for engineering systems that can act on different time scales and at different molecular concentrations. These components have been combined to create increasingly complex gene circuits. Major challenges for engineering mammalian synthetic gene networks include further improving scalability and predictability. Recent technological advancements in site - directed genome engineering and programmable DNA binding domains will likely aid in addressing these issues. Other important future directions will include incorporating new regulators that act at the levels of chromatin remodeling and DNA methylation and the division of computational loads among different cell types with population - based computing.