Synthesis of PHBV block copolymers driven by an oscillatory genetic network

Abstract

Artificial genetic networks constitute a powerful tool to achieve various biotechnological objectives. In this work, we propose the modification of an oscillatory genetic network, known as the repressilator, to drive synthesis of poly(3hydroxybutyrate-co-3hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) block copolymer chains in recombinant Escherichia coli cells. To study the feasibility of this idea, we developed a detailed mathematical model describing the dynamics of the genetic network, which drive the formation of monomer units that are subsequently incorporated into actively growing block copolymer chains. Extensive simulation studies have shown that appropriate choice of the molecular characteristics of the network and manipulation of extracelllular conditions lead to tight control of both the micro- and macro-structures of the resulting block copolymer chains. Thus, the model can guide network design aiming at producing block copolymer structures with desirable characteristics.