mCATNIP

microbial Compartmentalization AssisTed
Nepetalactol Ingredient Production

Abstract

is the active ingredient in catnip, a feline attractant, and a potential green pesticide. It has a common precursor, nepetalactol, with monoterpene indole alkaloids (MIAs) which is a group of plant-derived compounds of great therapeutic value, such as vincristine (an anti-cancer drug). We aim to synthesize nepetalactol through a mutualistic division of labour between E. coli and yeast. Besides, we design, characterize, and use a library of transcription activator-like effectors (TALE)stabilized promoters to regulate the heterologous gene expression in E. coli. Our applied design conceives the future application of nepetalactone on stray cat control, which we consider as an opportunity for public engagement and education. Our presentation powerpoints can be download here.

If you want to know how to use synbio to create fantasies among cats, how to let two distintive microorganisms work together, how to achieve better stability and higher production, just click here and fill your curious brain with fun knowledge.

Safety

Safety has been a crucial concern throughout our project. See our creative approaches to lab safety and biosecurity on Safety page.

Parts

We have fantastic parts and we want to share them with the entire iGEM community! Explore our basic parts, composite parts and a brand new collection of transcription-activator-like effector stabilised promoter.

Lab

See how we have been working in the lab since May! We managed to achieve high yield of geraniol and successful co-culture in the end.

HP

Apart from the lab, we reached out to the community in many ways. We have met lovely people and here is our stories.

Model

Modeling tools aid in the rational design and make the engineered system predictable. Visit this page to take a closer look.

Team

GreatBay_China 2018 consists of 13 students and 7 high schools, 1 instructor, 5 advisors and 2 PIs. Get to know about these lovely people! Also see attributions and collaborations here.