Development of High-content DNA Event Recording Systems

Our research program develops DNA event recording system, by which molecular and cellular information is progressively stored in synthetic “DNA tapes” in cells within a multicellular organism.

Research Outline

In animal development, starting from a single fertilized egg, cells proliferate and dynamically change their functions to form diverse structures of organs. Through the process, cells express genes triggered by intracellular signals. While gene expression products dynamically constitute cellular functions, they also produce a range of signals transmitted to their neighboring cells. Cells receive molecular and mechanical signals and input them to the genetic regulatory networks encoded in the genome, determining the cells’ following states. Through these steps, cells differentiate and self-organize functional clusters in spatially distinct areas, leading to the formation of organs. In addition to local developmental processes, metabolites, proteins, and cells produced by organs begin circulating throughout the body to support whole-body development and its functions.

Accordingly, the self-organizing developmental process from a single cell is beautifully orchestrated by multiple layers of reactions and is highly robust despite the number of steps and cross-talking elements.

However, in current biology, we are limited to analyzing objects at the time of observation. Yachie’s group has been internationally recognized and leading the development of “DNA event recording” systems, by which program develops DNA event recording system, by which molecular and cellular information is progressively stored in synthetic “DNA tapes” in cells within a multicellular organism. Such a system allows the readout of historical molecular expression profiles of many cells using high-throughput single- cell sequencing. With the partnership with the University of British Columbia, we will establish a strong foundation of this field in the Osaka University’s WPI PRIMe program.

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