Our parts collection consists of the
BBa_K3301012 and
BBa_K3301013 composite parts, as well as our modified xylose-dependent killswitch (BBa_K3301003). Together, these parts create a probiotic.
MAFF Parts
The MAFF genes, indigenous to the Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron plasmid, aid the cell in nutrient absorption, but beyond that, they are known to have a positive effect on the microbial community. We hypothesize that a MAFF supplement would be highly beneficial to a patient with a microbial imbalance--this is a very common problem, as it happens frequently after taking antibiotic medicines.
The MAFF would be delivered via modified E. Coli. E. Coli is known to be able to survive ingestion and colonize the intestinal tract; that, in addition to its versatility and oxygen-tolerance are the reason we picked it to deliver MAFF proteins into the gut.
Killswitch Part
Of course, E. Coli also has the ability to become pathogenic when introduced to a sparse, nutrient-rich environment. This is why we’ve added a killswitch, part BBa_K3301003 modified from an existing part, into the plasmid of our modified E. Coli. The killswitch is designed so that the E. Coli constantly produce a toxin, the antitoxin of which can only be produced in the presence of xylose. The E. Coli will be introduced to the microbiome with a xylose supplement, and will produce MAFF while that supplement lasts. Once it runs out, the bacteria will die; they will leave behind an increase in native flora and a healthier microbiome.
