DNA origami patterning of synthetic T cell receptors reveals spatial control of the sensitivity and kinetics of signal activation

Abstract

It has been proposed that the spatial arrangement of ligands plays a key role in regulating downstream intracellular signals. Because of methodological limitations in precise ligand patterning, however, the relationship between spatial configuration of clusters and signaling dynamics remains poorly understood. By developing a DNA-based molecular “pegboard” for ligand patterning, we demonstrated that the nanometer arrangement of ligands plays significant roles in modulating signal transduction in T cells. Ligand clustering not only affects the triggering sensitivity but also determines the temporal dynamics of the intracellular signaling response. Our approach is highly translatable for studying various signaling pathways, and our results provide insights into biomolecular engineering for therapeutic uses.

Document Details

Document Type
Pub Defense Publication
Publication Date
Sep 29, 2021
Source ID
10.1073/pnas.2109057118

Entities

People

  • Ronald D. Vale
  • Ronald N. Germain
  • Rui Dong
  • Shawn M Douglas
  • Tural Aksel
  • Waipan Chan

Organizations

  • Army Research Office
  • Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
  • Howard Hughes Medical Institute
  • Jane Coffin Childs Memorial Fund for Medical Research
  • National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
  • National Science Foundation
  • Office of Naval Research
  • University of California

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Biology
  • Chemistry

Readers

  • Cellular and Molecular Pathways of Apoptosis.
  • Nanocomposite Materials Science
  • Theoretical Analysis.