A newly developed gene switch can be triggered through a nitroglycerine patch applied to the skin, a new study has revealed.
In recent years, researchers from ETH Zurich in Basel have developed various different gene switches, some of which respond to physical triggers such as current, sound waves or light.
Additionally, they have been working on cell therapies for some time, including modifying human cells by incorporating a network of genes that give the cells special abilities.
The network is activated by a specific external stimulus when these cells are implanted under the skin.
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A team of scientists in Basel have now developed another variant, which is set to help treat diabetes.
First author Professor Martin Fussenegger said: “For me, this solution is the best gene switch that my group and I have built so far.”
This is because the switch can be activated using the recognised active ingredient nitroglycerin, which can easily be applied by sticking a patch to the skin.
Diffusing out of the patch and into the skin, nitroglycerin encounters an implant that contains modified human kidney cells, which can intercept the nitroglycerin and convert it into nitric oxide. Increased blood flow is triggered by nitric oxide because it causes blood vessels to dilate.
By implanting these newly develop cells, nitric oxide triggers the production and release of the chemical messenger GLP-1, which in turn increases insulin release by the beta cells of the pancreas.
Made predominantly of human constituents, the new switch contains no components from other species.
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Professor Fussenegger said: “That’s a new and groundbreaking feature. With components from other species, there is always a risk of false triggering, interference with the body’s own processes, or immune reactions. Here, we’re able to rule that out.
“Physical triggers are interesting because we don’t need to use molecules that interfere with the body’s own processes.”
He added: “Electrical signals are ideal for controlling switches and gene networks using portable electronics such as smartphones or smartwatches – and AI can then be incorporated too.
“I therefore think electrogenetic cell therapies have the best chances of implementation. In terms of chemical switches, I see the new solution as being in pole position.”
Read the study in the journal Nature Biomedical Engineering.
