Nanogenetics: Nanostructures for programming molecular mechanisms

Recent research has developed strategies to influence subcellular behavior using non-invasive external stimuli. Combining nanotechnology and synthetic biology forms "nanogenetics," creating programmable systems that interact with cellular processes remotely, enhancing precision and specificity. Two case studies demonstrate nanogenetics' potential. The first created an optogenetic tool for gene editing, incorporating gold nanoparticles for stabilization and efficient delivery, allowing localized heat increases for controlled degradation. The second explored a magnetogenetic approach for axon growth regulation using iron oxide nanoparticles with self-assembling fusion proteins for intracellular tracking, enhancing neuronal regenerative capacities. Moreover, customized probes for single-molecule imaging were developed to address nanoscopy limitations through synthetic design, enabling passive cell organization inference. This PhD thesis developed tools to manipulate and study cellular behavior. These tools' ability to activate biological events at specific subcellular locations holds potential for research, personalized nanomedicine, and biotechnology. The integration of light and magnetism provides active modulation of cell behavior, with implications for gene editing and neuronal growth in regenerative medicine. Nanogenetics promises advancements in medical and biotechnological applications by combining nanotechnology and synthetic biology into therapeutic and diagnostic tools.