Sprecher
Beschreibung
Controlling the spatial and temporal dynamics of cytoskeletal components is a central challenge in the construction of synthetic cells. Here, we present a system in which synthetic cytoskeletal filaments composed of DNA tiles are assembled in situ via a UV-trigger and subsequently positioned through interaction with the Min protein system from Escherichia coli.
Specifically, we designed DNA tiles that remain inactive until exposed to a UV stimulus, enabling controllable self-assembly into micrometer-scale filaments. These DNA filaments are formed directly at the membrane, and their spatial distribution is influenced by the oscillatory behavior of the Min protein system, reconstituted on supported lipid bilayers (SLBs) and in giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs). By tuning UV exposure times and Min protein concentrations, we demonstrate precise control over both filament nucleation timing and spatial localization, mimicking key aspects of cytoskeletal patterning in living systems. Using confocal microscopy and atomic force microscopy, we investigate filament formation, properties and behavior on SLBs and in GUVs.
Our system represents a modular platform for integrating photo-responsive DNA nanotechnology with protein-based reaction–diffusion systems. Beyond demonstrating compatibility between orthogonal synthetic and biological modules, our results suggest a path toward minimal cytoskeletal systems capable of adaptive organization and cooperative behavior. The coupling of external stimuli (UV light) with internal positioning mechanisms (Min proteins) provides a flexible framework for studying emergent properties in bottom-up synthetic biology and could be extended to orchestrate more complex tasks such as compartmentalization, membrane deformation, or active transport.
Our work highlights how rationally designed DNA architectures can function as responsive cytoskeletal elements, operating in unison with native protein systems, and opens new avenues for programmable morphogenesis in synthetic cellular environments.
