Utilizing gene and protein engineering to create tools in synthetic biology

Synthetic biology is a field of study that involves redesigning and constructing parts of a cell or organisms through engineering principles to gain new abilities. Many tools have been developed using synthetic biology techniques designed to control, sense, or manipulate cellular function. While many of these systems are controlled by a light or chemical stimulus, we looked to mechanisms in nature to expand the synthetic biology toolbox. One such mechanisms from nature is magnetoreception, or the ability to sense and detect magnetic fields. The Electromagnetic Perceptive Gene (EPG) is a protein from the glass catfish (Kryptopterus vitreolus) is known for its magnetoreceptive properties. Here we show the ability to use the EPG as a synthetic tool through magnetic induction. We have found the EPG protein has a conformational change that can be used as a method of reconstituting split proteins using magnetic fields. This method was used to reconstitute three separate split proteins; NanoLuc, APEX2, and Herpes Simplex Virus Type-1 Thymidine Kinase. This work serves as the starting point for design and application of magnetogenetic systems for cellular control and manipulation. This technology allows for the expansion of the synthetic biology toolbox and will allow for studying and application to more complex systems.