Programmable cells: Interfacing natural and engineered gene networks

What is it about?

In the field of synthetic biology, efforts are being made to artificially create gene regulatory systems and thereby control biological organisms. In this study, we attempted to control *Escherichia coli* by linking an artificially constructed genetic toggle switch to the bacterium's endogenous gene networks. We successfully established a link with the DNA repair network, enabling the control of biofilm formation through ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. This work demonstrates for the first time that biological control is possible using artificial gene networks.

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Why is it important?

We linked an artificially constructed gene network to the native gene network of *E. coli*, thereby successfully controlling the bacterium's behavior. Previously, the functionality of artificial gene networks was typically assessed based on the expression of fluorescent proteins such as GFP; however, this study demonstrates that they can actually be used to control cellular behavior. Such artificial gene networks hold promise for applications in fields such as microbial fermentation.