Optogenetics × Order Framework
Optogenetics is a technology that has been gaining attention in recent years. We combined optogenetics with order and discovered new possibilities for optogenetics. This combination is our novel idea. Optopass, which embodies this concept, can also contribute to solving the central challenges of synthetic biology: safety and security. This technology will reduce the environmental impact of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and facilitate social implementation, an important aspect of iGEM. Besides, its application could expand the range of uses of microorganisms, such as making them produce multiple substances depending on the stage of light irradiation. Our optogenetics passcode system is a significant example of fusing light and order. We hope it will be a leading option for biosafety and biosecurity in future projects.
For a detailed explanation, see our Description page.
Parts Improvement
We improved the ADH1 promoter (ADH1p), BBa_K2365039, to increase the number of options for homeostatic promoters. ADH1p is a sequence found in yeast genomes. We created a basic component of a promoter, "ADH1p short", BBa_K4238000, by deleting the upstream sequence of ADH1p, including the activation sequence called UASrpg (upstream activation sequence of ribosome protein genes). The comparison of the promoters by the expression level of the downstream mCherry showed that the expression level of ADH1p short was higher than that of the normal ADH1p. In addition, the shorter sequence length makes the promoter more tractable for genetic engineering. We succeeded in creating a basic component that is easy to handle genetically and has a high level of expression. We hope ADH1p short will make experiments more efficient.
Figure 1. Average of fluorescence. Error bars indicate standard errors. * denotes a significant difference at , ** denotes a significant difference at , and n.s. denotes no significant difference. The statistical test was conducted using the Wilcoxon rank sum test.
Hardware
Our hardware aims to protect the security, but it can also be available for pure optogenetics. Our device can shine up to four independent colors of light, measure OD, control temperature, and is small and inexpensive to manufacture. Our open-source devices will make it easier for future iGEM members to experiment with optogenetics.
For a detailed explanation, see our Hardware page.
Educational Materials
iGEM UTokyo made two educational materials. One is the card game, "ATP Battle" and the other is the software, "Genochemy."
ATP Battle
ATP Battle is a card game that allows users to learn about the mechanism of energy production in living organisms while playing. Its rule is very simple: accumulate ATP faster than your component. Since each card has an explanation written on it, there is no need to worry about forgetting its function. The type of cards used can be selected according to the level of understanding, so beginners can learn simple mechanisms and people with high proficiency levels can learn more complex ones.
For educational use of ATP Battle, see our Education & Communication page. Here is the rule book of ATP Battle.
Genochemy
We also developed an innovative educational software "Genochemy," which can be played by anyone, anywhere, anytime, with an Internet connection. It includes a Scratch-like block programming system for intuitive operation, explanations attached to each block, and quizzes to make learning about synthetic biology fun. This software will encourage the public to become interested in synthetic biology. We have held workshops throughout the season using Genochemy, learning from the feedback of people from diverse backgrounds, and have continued to improve Genochemy. We are still developing it to achieve our goal of "low entrance, high ceiling", which means that it is easy enough for anyone to begin but has the potential to take the user to a very high level.
For educational use of Genochemy, see our Details of Education page.