UPNavarra_Spain has developed the following content to help other iGEM teams. This contribution includes the optimization of the codon usage, a manual, a youtube video and a Spotify playlist.
Human Aromatic-L-amino-acid decarboxylase (TDC) catalyzes the decarboxylation of L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) to dopamine and L-5-hydroxytryptophan to serotonin, while human Tryptophan 5-Hydroxylase 1 (TPH) oxidizes L-tryptophan to 5-hydroxy-l-tryptophan in the rate-determining step of serotonin biosynthesis.
Our part entries contain the sequence of both TDC and TDH optimized for synthesis in E. coli (via codon optimization software by IDT Technologies), adapted to be used within the Biobrick Assembly Standards.
Synthetic biology is one of the newest fields of science. Therefore, little is known about all the possibilities that it may offer in the future. That is why we decided to write a manual to bring basic knowledge closer to society and introduce basic techniques to future teams.
ManualOur project revolves around the serotonin molecule, the so-called happiness hormone. On the occasion of World Day to Fight Depression, we edited a video explaining the principles of serotonin, as well as the relationship of low levels of it with depression. Hopefully this can lead to developing future participations around mental health struggles and this kind of hormone based treatments.
VideoWhat better companion is there in the moments of life than a little music? That is why we have decided to design several compilations of songs that have accompanied us at different times of our iGEM experience. In the same way, these songs can accompany future teams in their future experiences and help them at all times. From the decision of the theme to the experimental work, going through the lowest moments or the great team trips.
Paper reading: A playlist made out of 30 instrumental songs which guided us through many articles while searching for our ideal project.
Lab work: A series of electronic songs so you can transform yourself into the pipetting robot master you are!
Serotonin boost: Sometimes an experiment doesn´t work the first time, or the second, or third .... Well, as our serotonin based project, we hope to give you a boost in the lower points.
Road trip: Part of the iGEM spirit is to go visit different factories, labs, schools or other institutions. Here is a full list of bops you can sing along to on the way there, at let's not forget the final trip to the Giant Jamboree :)