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From 2011.igem.org

preliminary project descriptions

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This year, we aim to make further development of "Dr. E. coli" our project of iGEM 2010. Dr. E. coli can inject desired protein molecules into a target eukaryotic cell through a syringe like organelle named Type 3 Secretion System(T3SS). Pathogenic gram-negative bacterium such as Salmonella has T3SS. In nature it is used to inject virulence effector proteins into a target eukaryotic cell. Last year, we showed that T3SS works in E. coli by injecting GFP into RK13 cells.

This year, we are going one step further. Using Dr. E. coli as a "nano injection system", we are planning to develop a cancer terminator or carry out direct reprogramming of somatic cells; for example we aim to induce differentiation from preadipocyte to insulin-secreting cell.

For human practice, we are going to hold a Science Gallery. We will exhibit awesome photographs related with molecular biology in a public place and ask some questions about synthetic biology. We hope to catch the public's interest in current biotechnology and investigate the public's thoughts about synthetic biology.