Quorum Production by the Brush E. coli

Mathematical modeling is essential in qualitatively describing de novo genetic circuits that frequently arise in synthetic biology. We can use such models for two objectives: (1) predicting the behavior of combinations of BioBrick parts designed for the synthetic circuit that performs some task, and (2) choosing the appropriate promoter and ribosome binding site (RBS) with suitable strengths for the circuit. Also, it will serve as a reference for others who use the BioBrick in the future. In summary, the model and the computer simulation are our beginning point for making testable predictions about the behavior of our system. We construct a computational model describing the genetic network encompassing relevant signal transduction pathways in order to help build E.coli that can draw pictures!

Our final product is E.Casso, a system of two different E. coli engineered with the help of BioBricks. The first E. coli (referred to as the Brush E. coli) acts as the brush and determines the color of the second type of E. coli. The second E. coli (referred to as the Paint E. coli) produces proteins that fluoresce one of four colors green, cyan, yellow, and red. Ideally, a canvas of solid medium will be densely plated with the Paint E. coli and lightly plated or intentionally streaked with the Brush E. coli.

The communication between the Brush and Paint E. coli utilizes an innate system of communication commonly referred to as quorum sensing. In essence, a single Brush E. coli randomly selects one of four quorum, or signaling molecules, representing one of four colors green, cyan, yellow, and red, and sends them out for the Paint E. coli. Then, the Paint E. coli receives the quorum, produces the protein of respective color, and makes more of the same quorum for adjacent Paint E. coli.

The dry lab team modeled E.Casso with computer simulations and mathematical calculations. The steps involved in this model are thoroughly explained in the following sections:

Lists of Modeling