Parasites, Infections, and Inoculation in Synthetic Minimal Cells

Synthetic minimal cells provide a controllable and engineerable model for biological processes. While much simpler than any live natural cell, synthetic cells offer a chassis for investigating the chemical foundations of key biological processes. Herein, we show a synthetic cell system with host cells, interacting with parasites and undergoing infections of varying severity. We demonstrate how the host can be engineered to resist infection, we investigate the metabolic cost of carrying resistance, and we show an inoculation that immunizes the host against pathogens. Our work expands the synthetic cell engineering toolbox by demonstrating host-pathogen interactions and mechanisms for acquiring immunity. This brings synthetic cell systems one step closer to providing a comprehensive model of complex, natural life.

Automated summary

Synthetic minimal cells serve as controllable and engineerable models for biological processes, offering a simplified platform for investigating key chemical foundations of life. In this study, a synthetic cell system with host cells interacting with parasites and experiencing various degrees of infection was demonstrated. The engineered host cells were shown to resist infection, and the metabolic cost of carrying resistance was investigated. Furthermore, an inoculation method was employed to immunize the host against pathogens, expanding the toolbox for synthetic cell engineering and inching closer towards a comprehensive model of complex natural life.