Proof of Concept

Through our parts characterization experiments, we have demonstrated the functionality of both our hormone sensing and miRNA sensing techniques in a cell line that very closely resembles human endometrial stromal tissue, tHESC. When we probed this cell line for miRNA levels using miRNA sensors, we were able to prove our capability of sensing changes in miRNA levels in response to hormones in this cell line. By confirming that the L7Ae/k-turn system can regulate the expression of a recombinase under the EGSH promoter, we have shown that we can create the type of hormone-inducible biological ‘latch’ system we had hoped. Our collaboration with the Boston University Hardware Team has verified our ability to culture mammalian cells in a microfluidic device, which is the platform we envision for the clinical application of the functional cascade of the individual components we have characterized.