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Ctrl+E: E. coli is nothing without control
One of the pivotal objectives of synthetic biology is to build complex gene networks with a predictable behavior by combining well-characterized basic modules. As a proof of concept of this fundamental, our project aims at designing and implementing in E. coli a quorum sensing-based control system, able to regulate the concentration of a signaling molecule (3OC6-HSL) via a negative feedback loop.
Mastering such a communication system can prove useful in fighting different infections arising from quorum sensing-communicating bacteria.
In order to obtain the desired output, fine-tuning of the circuit is necessary; therefore, a mathematical model of the control system will be derived and identified by data coming from ad hoc experiments on basic modules. Model simulations will be used to meet the design specifications of the biological controller, demonstrating that full characterization of basic parts is a major goal to predict the behavior of more complex circuits.
