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Mind-controlled transgene expression by a wireless-powered optogenetic designer cell implant

Author

Listed:
  • Marc Folcher

    (ETH Zurich)

  • Sabine Oesterle

    (ETH Zurich)

  • Katharina Zwicky

    (ETH Zurich)

  • Thushara Thekkottil

    (ETH Zurich)

  • Julie Heymoz

    (ETH Zurich)

  • Muriel Hohmann

    (ETH Zurich)

  • Matthias Christen

    (ETH Zurich)

  • Marie Daoud El-Baba

    (Institut Universitaire de Technologie (IUTA))

  • Peter Buchmann

    (ETH Zurich)

  • Martin Fussenegger

    (ETH Zurich
    Faculty of Science, University of Basel)

Abstract

Synthetic devices for traceless remote control of gene expression may provide new treatment opportunities in future gene- and cell-based therapies. Here we report the design of a synthetic mind-controlled gene switch that enables human brain activities and mental states to wirelessly programme the transgene expression in human cells. An electroencephalography (EEG)-based brain–computer interface (BCI) processing mental state-specific brain waves programs an inductively linked wireless-powered optogenetic implant containing designer cells engineered for near-infrared (NIR) light-adjustable expression of the human glycoprotein SEAP (secreted alkaline phosphatase). The synthetic optogenetic signalling pathway interfacing the BCI with target gene expression consists of an engineered NIR light-activated bacterial diguanylate cyclase (DGCL) producing the orthogonal second messenger cyclic diguanosine monophosphate (c-di-GMP), which triggers the stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-dependent induction of synthetic interferon-β promoters. Humans generating different mental states (biofeedback control, concentration, meditation) can differentially control SEAP production of the designer cells in culture and of subcutaneous wireless-powered optogenetic implants in mice.

Suggested Citation

  • Marc Folcher & Sabine Oesterle & Katharina Zwicky & Thushara Thekkottil & Julie Heymoz & Muriel Hohmann & Matthias Christen & Marie Daoud El-Baba & Peter Buchmann & Martin Fussenegger, 2014. "Mind-controlled transgene expression by a wireless-powered optogenetic designer cell implant," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 5(1), pages 1-11, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:5:y:2014:i:1:d:10.1038_ncomms6392
    DOI: 10.1038/ncomms6392
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