UCLA

Synthetic biology, through a combination of biology, engineering, and computer science, programs cells to perform novel functions. Synthetic cells are engineered to produce biomolecules, act as biosensors, or deliver therapies with precision. As one of the synthetic receptos that are incorporated into the cells, synNotch receptor, derived from Notch receptors, offers precise activation control and is used mainly in cancer therapies. In contrast to the current research focus, our study is centered on developing a therapeutic approach of the regeneration of synNotch via engineering cells with synNotch receptors to create localized immunosuppressive environments for treating Type 1 diabetes. Our design indicates a great potential of protection transplanted beta islets from immune rejection, enhancing the success of islet transplantation for diabetes patients.