Gregory Batt

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  Balancing a genetic toggle switch using real-time control and periodic stimulation
  Gregory Batt

  Feedback control methods have recently been applied to successfully take control of cellular functions. This novel field of research aims to remotely pilot cellular processes in real-time with unprecedented levels of robustness and precision to leverage the biotechnological potential of synthetic biology. Yet, the control of only a small number of genetic circuits has been tested so far. In this presentation, I will present the control of a multistable gene regulatory network, which is ubiquitously found in nature and play critical roles in cell differentiation and decision-making. Using an in silico feedback control loop, we demonstrate that a bistable genetic toggle switch can be dynamically maintained near its unstable equilibrium position. Thus, single cells could be controlled to remain in an undecided state for extended periods of time. Importantly, we show that a direct method based on dual periodic forcing is sufficient to simultaneously maintain many cells in an undecided state. These findings pave the way for the control of more complex cell decision-making systems at both the single cell and the population levels, with vast fundamental and biotechnological applications.