NUS researchers brandish light beams for biotechnology breakthrough
The result is y-iLight, a red light-responsive protein that controls gene activity in yeast without extra chemicals.
In a biotechnology milestone, researchers from the National University of Singapore (NUS) have developed an innovative light-based control system for yeast cells. This breakthrough could revolutionize the precision and programmability of biological manufacturing processes. Yeast, a microorganism long used in baking and alcohol production, has emerged as a valuable tool in biotechnology, capable of converting sugars into a wide range of products, including medicines and fuels.
However, the living nature of yeast poses challenges in controlling its activities with high precision. To address this, NUS scientists employed optogenetics, a technique that utilizes light to regulate cellular functions. Poh Chueh Loo, an associate professor at NUS Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation, led the research team in creating a red light-responsive protein called y-iLight, which can activate specific genes in yeast when exposed to certain wavelengths of light.
This protein, which does not require additional chemicals beyond those naturally found in yeast, offers a cost-effective, reliable, and eco-friendly alternative to existing optogenetic systems. The researchers further combined y-iLight with an established blue light-responsive system, creating a multiplexed optogenetics approach in yeast.
By adjusting the intensity and combination of red and blue light, scientists can control various biological processes, such as the production of beneficial compounds like luteolin and the formation of cell clumps. This method enables cleaner and more programmable biomanufacturing techniques. Additionally, the team successfully engineered yeast to produce colored compounds in response to light, creating multi-color living images.
Looking ahead, the research team aims to enhance the sensitivity and strength of the light-sensitive proteins and explore additional colors of light to further refine the technology. Ultimately, they aspire to commercialize this innovation through a start-up or licensing agreements.
Written by urgent.news from Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
