Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery that could revolutionize the study of developmental and disease processes by creating genetically engineered “memory cells.” These cells can record their histories within their genomes, providing rich datasets for early diagnosis, improved treatment, and better-informed health decisions.
Researchers from multiple institutions, including the University of California, Los Angeles, and the University of Washington, Seattle, have developed techniques to program cells to record their molecular and physiological states over time. This allows for non-invasive monitoring of basic physiological variables through methods such as urine or blood sampling, followed by additional testing of tissue samples and clinical assessments.
The “memory cells” can be designed to capture a diverse range of molecular and cellular biomarkers and express the information as encoded proteins or nucleic acids, which can be retrieved from bodily fluids. By locating these cells at different sites within the body, researchers can gather tissue-specific data, complete with current state, extracellular biomarkers, and longitudinal cellular histories.
This technology has significant implications for understanding developmental processes, disease progression, immune system responses, and microbial interactions in diverse biological contexts. The “memory cells” could be engineered to analyze recorded data to execute complex, context-specific responses, such as targeting diseased tissues or modulating immune functions.
Sentinel cells have already been partially developed, with examples including engineering bacteria to act as sentinel cells within the mouse gut and cells that export RNA barcodes packaged into protective nanoparticles. These instances demonstrate initial steps toward developing cells capable of recording and reporting molecular and physiological states within living organisms.
Source: https://phys.org/news/2024-11-health-diagnostics-genetically-embedded-sentinel.html