Engineering protein-protein devices for multilayered regulation of mRNA translation using orthogonal proteases in mammalian cells

Nat Commun. 2018 Oct 22;9(1):4392. doi: 10.1038/s41467-018-06825-7.

Abstract

The development of RNA-encoded regulatory circuits relying on RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) has enhanced the applicability and prospects of post-transcriptional synthetic network for reprogramming cellular functions. However, the construction of RNA-encoded multilayer networks is still limited by the availability of composable and orthogonal regulatory devices. Here, we report on control of mRNA translation with newly engineered RBPs regulated by viral proteases in mammalian cells. By combining post-transcriptional and post-translational control, we expand the operational landscape of RNA-encoded genetic circuits with a set of regulatory devices including: i) RBP-protease, ii) protease-RBP, iii) protease-protease, iv) protein sensor protease-RBP, and v) miRNA-protease/RBP interactions. The rational design of protease-regulated proteins provides a diverse toolbox for synthetic circuit regulation that enhances multi-input information processing-actuation of cellular responses. Our approach enables design of artificial circuits that can reprogram cellular function with potential benefits as research tools and for future in vivo therapeutics and biotechnological applications.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Peptide Hydrolases / genetics
  • Peptide Hydrolases / metabolism
  • Protein Biosynthesis / physiology*
  • RNA, Messenger / metabolism*
  • RNA-Binding Proteins / genetics
  • RNA-Binding Proteins / metabolism*
  • Transcription Factors / genetics
  • Transcription Factors / metabolism

Substances

  • RNA, Messenger
  • RNA-Binding Proteins
  • Transcription Factors
  • Peptide Hydrolases