Learning from Nature to Expand the Genetic Code

The genetic code is the manual that cells use to incorporate amino acids into proteins. It is possible to artificially expand this manual through cellular, molecular, and chemical manipulations to improve protein functionality. Strategies for in vivo genetic code expansion are under the same functional constraints as natural protein synthesis. Here, we review the approaches used to incorporate noncanonical amino acids (ncAAs) into designer proteins through the manipulation of the translation machinery and draw parallels between these methods and natural adaptations that improve translation in extant organisms. Following this logic, we propose new nature-inspired tactics to improve genetic code expansion (GCE) in synthetic organisms.

Automated summary

The genetic code serves as a guide for cells to incorporate amino acids into proteins. Scientists can artificially expand this code by manipulating the translation machinery to enhance protein functionality. By drawing parallels between natural adaptations and methods used for genetic code expansion, researchers can propose nature-inspired tactics to improve synthetic organisms.