Synthetic Exploration of the Host Microbe Interactions in the Mammalian Gut

The mammalian gut is a complex environment in constant interaction with the host. The importance of these interactions in virtually every aspect of health and disease is documented daily. We have used synthetically programmed commensal bacteria to begin to probe signals and interactions as diagnostics and future therapeutics. Our goal is to establish broad sensing of many conditions, timing of their occurrence, new methods of detection and systematic delivery of therapeutics. We have engineered commensal bacteria to sense markers of inflammation. In doing so, we established criteria for long-term stability in the gut. To investigate timing of events, we have deployed a robust oscillator in conjunction with different perturbations. In anticipation of future applications, we have developed strategies for containment of synthetic organisms and are developing novel non-invasive detection methods that have widespread applications for all cell types.