GENETICALLY-TARGETED CHEMICAL ASSEMBLY: BUILDING FUNCTIONAL STRUCTURES AND MATERIALS IN LIVING CELLS, TISSUES, AND ANIMALS

• Format: Patent
• Language: English
• Published: 04.12.2020

Compositions and methods are provided for genetically modifying cells to guide in situ chemical synthesis of electroactive, conductive, or insulating polymers on plasma membranes, organelle membranes, or subcellular surfaces of cells. In particular, compositions and methods are provided for genetically modifying excitable cells such as neurons, muscle cells, and endocrine cells to guide in situ chemical synthesis of polymers on the extracellular side of the plasma membrane. The subject methods can be used in various applications, for example, to assemble polymers in vivo at targeted locations to modulate electrical conduction and create new electrical conduction pathways, allow cell-type-specific neuromodulation, provide a conductive structure on cells for connection to electrodes, sensors, or other external electronic and electrochemical devices, and create a durable structure to replace damaged tissue for use in regenerative medicine.