David Kastner (WHITE & KULIK LABS)

Dynamic Charge Distribution as a Key Driver of Catalytic Reactivity in an Artificial Enzyme

Miniature artificial enzymes provide a platform to extract design principles and probe reactivity. In this work we investigate how the electronic environment influences enzyme reactivity through classical and ab initio molecular dynamics simulations, supervised machine learning, and statistical analysis on a series of mimochrome systems. Through a computational approach, we identify key differences in charge distribution and reactivity between mimochromes, and critical residues that influence charge distribution dynamics and reactivity.

Kasey Love (HANSEN & GALLOWAY LABS)

Tuning a Compact Genetic Circuit for Precise Gene Expression in Primary Cells

To realize the potential of engineered cells, integrated transgenes must function effectively in primary cells. However, variable delivery leads to a range of transgene expression levels, compromising cellular phenotypes. To ensure a narrow expression range, we explore a single-transcript design of a microRNA-based incoherent feedforward loop. We examine how the identity and placement of genetic elements contribute to expression profiles and identify a design that functions robustly across delivery systems. This work provides a framework for engineering tight control over genetic cargoes to advance therapeutic and research applications.