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FUGE-Funksjonell genomforskn.i Norg

Synthetic and Systems Biology at SynBERC (USA): new ideas and possibilities for collaboration on genome-based bioprospecting

Awarded: NOK 31,999

Initial mining of genomes of several bacteria isolated from the Trondheim fjord revealed great biotechnological potential of these microorganisms in terms of production of small molecules and enzymes. Preliminary data strongly suggest that only a very sma ll portion of this potential is realized in laboratory conditions, mainly due to complex regulatory networks setting strict barriers for efficient gene expression. One of the most advanced solutions to circumvent this problem is the use of synthetic biolo gy, which helps to overcome interspecies barriers to gene expression. Berkeley University, University of San Francisco, Stanford University and SynBERC (Synthetic Biology Research Center, USA) are at the forefront of synthetic biology research. Initial c ontact with one of the groups working on synthetic biology application to generation of new drugs has been established, and invitation to spend up to 2 weeks at SynBERC has been received. During this period, contact with 8 other groups, working with synth etic and systems biology of micro- and macroorganisms will be established. Time spent at the universities and at SynBERC will allow to gain knowledge on their projects in the field of synthetic/systems biology, and to evaluate their possible synergy with our initiative on genome-based bioprospecting. Possibilities for collaboration and outlines of joint projects will be discussed.

Funding scheme:

FUGE-Funksjonell genomforskn.i Norg