To address negative emotions as a precursor to depression, the CCU-Taiwan iGEM team developed the SERENE project, which combines the health management App Pokefish to detect stress levels and mood-promoting probiotics to relieve stress through drinking daily beverages. For more details, please see our Project Design page.
We developed a stress management app, Pokefish, that uses finger photoplethysmography to assess heart rate variability and convert the data into a stress index. Unlike previous iGEM software tools, which have primarily focused on bioinformatics and supporting synthetic biology research, Pokefish takes a novel approach by focusing on medical informatics, specifically addressing psychological stress. Our app not only detects stress levels but also provides tips and strategies for stress relief, offering users a comprehensive tool for both monitoring and managing their stress. This shift towards practical stress management marks a significant advancement within iGEM, expanding the scope of software development beyond bioinformatics and into the realm of medical applications that potentially enhance well-being.
For more details, please see our Software page.
▲ Figure 1: The app's homepage.
In our SERENE project, we expressed monomeric-human Tryptophan Hydroxylase 1 (m-hTPH1) in E. coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) to produce 5-HTP from tryptophan. Since the BH4 coenzyme is necessary for tryptophan hydroxylation, we co-expressed human pterin-4-alpha-carbinolamine dehydratase 1 (hPCBD1) and human quinoid dihydropteridine reductase (hQDPR) in EcN. To enhance and regulate 5-HTP production, we applied rolling circle replication (RCR) and a protocatechuic acid (PCA)-regulated promoter to generate DNA scaffolds for clustering m-hTPH1, hPCBD1, and hQDPR. The 5-HTP-producing probiotics must also be resistant to stomach acid, so we used microencapsulation technology to protect the probiotics. Finally, we packaged the probiotics in an edible film for future application.
We contributed an engineered biobrick, such as monomeric-hTPH1, which does not form aggregates when expressed, unlike a previous biobrick (hTPH1). We also contributed two new biobricks, hPCBD1 and hQDPR, which will enable future iGEM teams to establish the regeneration system of BH4 coenzymes in E. coli.
For more details, please see our Part page.
▲ Figure 2: Biobrick : Composite part.
We contributed the concept that a DNA-based scaffold could be produced from RCR-generated circular ssDNA. The DNA-based scaffold provides a versatile and switchable system to cluster multiple proteins for enzymatic reaction. However, the direct introduction of dsDNA is transient, and the vector-based dsDNA introduction is hampered by limited copy number. By RCR, we could generate enough dsDNA scaffolds from vector-harboring RepA replication protein and DNA scaffold template.
▲ Figure 3: Biobrick: Composite part.
▲ Figure 4: The clustered enzymes on the DNA scaffold.
We contributed a protocol of microencapsulation to protect probiotics from peristaltic movements of the gastrointestinal (GI) muscles and stomach acid. Chitosan and sodium alginate layers do the microencapsulation, and calcium chloride stabilizes the encapsulated probiotics. This method not only enhances the delivery and effectiveness of probiotics but also serves as a valuable reference for other teams in the iGEM community working in the fields of probiotic engineering and gastrointestinal health.
For more details, please see our Results page.
▲ Figure 5: Surface Zeta potential of E. coli strain DH5α during Layer-by-Layer coating.
We contributed a formula for an edible film that could package probiotics and dissolve easily in water without adding unpleasant odor or color. The edible film has the potential to be applied to other food-related products and technologies and offers a more environmentally friendly alternative than plastic or aluminum foil packaging.
For more details, please refer to our Application page.
▲ Figure 6: The sodium caseinate film.