20.109:Module 1

20.109: Laboratory Fundamentals of Biological Engineering

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Genome Engineering Biophysical Signal Measurement Expression Engineering Biomaterial Engineering

Module 1

Instructors: [1] and [2]

TA: [3]

In this experiment, we will consider the genome of a virus, namely the bacteriophage M13. M13 is a self-assembling nano-machine with a compact genome that has been optimized by evolution to commandeer its bacterial host. Approximately 1000 new viruses are generated from a single infection event. Imagine harnessing this production. What could we build and what natural processes could we better understand? One approach we��ll take is to modify the existing genome in a subtle but useful way, namely by adding a peptide-tag that can be presented on the bacteriophage coat. We��ll examine how this modification affects the coat protein��s expression and overall phage production. Another approach we��ll take is to start from scratch, undertaking a full throttle redesign of the bacteriophage genome. We��ll employ a commercial DNA synthesis company to compile the redesigned genomic program and then we��ll see if it encoded infective M13 and if the genome of the bacterial host affects bacteriophage production. Through these investigations we��ll ask: is nature��s M13 genome ��perfect�� or can we do better?