A Measurement Foundation for the Future of Cell-free Systems

Cell-free systems have emerged as powerful tools for the expression of recombinant proteins. However, a lack of reproducibility persists within and across laboratories engaged in research using these systems. Measurement tools and methods specific to cell-free systems are essential to overcome this challenge, supporting intra- and interlaboratory collaboration, assisting nascent industry, and improving fundamental understanding of biology. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) seeks to foster innovation and build confidence in quantitative biology and biomaterial measurements. As part of a broader investment in synthetic and engineering biology, NIST is building technical competence and measurement capabilities in cell-free systems to deliver measurement assurance and measurement science for these systems. Towards this end, NIST is investing in automation to advance the utility and lower the barrier to adoption of cell-free systems.