Barbara Jusiak, Ph.D.

Synthetic biology treats cells like miniature computers, programming them with custom-built gene circuits that sense molecular inputs and respond by producing diagnostic or therapeutic outputs. In the Jusiak lab, we are interested in programming macrophages with synthetic gene circuits, taking advantage of macrophages’ properties such as behavioral plasticity and ability to infiltrate target tissues to use them as cell-based therapeutic and diagnostic devices. We currently have two projects: programming macrophages to sense and respond to solid tumors, and programming in vitro-differentiated microglia to respond to signals associated with neurodegeneration.