Automatic Compilation from High-Level Biologically-Oriented Programming Language to Genetic Regulatory Networks
2011

Automated Compilation from High-Level Biologically-Oriented Programming Language to Genetic Regulatory Networks

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Jacob Beal, Ting Lu, Ron Weiss

Primary Institution: BBN Technologies, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America; Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America

Hypothesis

Can a high-level programming language facilitate the design and optimization of synthetic biological systems?

Conclusion

The platform provides a user-friendly tool for the automated design of complex synthetic biological systems, significantly improving the efficiency of gene network design.

Supporting Evidence

  • The platform allows for the automated design of complex biological systems.
  • Compiler optimizations can significantly reduce the number of genes and latency in engineered gene networks.
  • Simulations validate the behavior of the generated genetic regulatory networks.

Takeaway

This study shows how scientists can use a special programming language to create and improve biological systems more easily, like building with LEGO blocks.

Methodology

The study developed a platform that compiles high-level programming language specifications into optimized genetic regulatory networks.

Limitations

The current version of the platform may not ensure biological feasibility of the engineered systems.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0022490

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication