An expanded library of orthogonal split inteins enables modular multi-peptide assemblies

Nat Commun. 2020 Mar 23;11(1):1529. doi: 10.1038/s41467-020-15272-2.

Abstract

Inteins are protein segments capable of joining adjacent residues via a peptide bond. In this process known as protein splicing, the intein itself is not present in the final sequence, thus achieving scarless peptide ligation. Here, we assess the splicing activity of 34 inteins (both uncharacterized and known) using a rapid split fluorescent reporter characterization platform, and establish a library of 15 mutually orthogonal split inteins for in vivo applications, 10 of which can be simultaneously used in vitro. We show that orthogonal split inteins can be coupled to multiple split transcription factors to implement complex logic circuits in living organisms, and that they can also be used for the in vitro seamless assembly of large repetitive proteins with biotechnological relevance. Our work demonstrates the versatility and vast potential of an expanded library of orthogonal split inteins for their use in the fields of synthetic biology and protein engineering.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biotechnology / methods*
  • Cloning, Molecular
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Fluorescence
  • Gene Library*
  • Genes, Reporter / genetics
  • Inteins / genetics*
  • Luminescent Proteins / chemistry
  • Luminescent Proteins / genetics
  • Peptides
  • Plasmids / genetics
  • Protein Engineering / methods*
  • Protein Splicing*
  • Recombinant Fusion Proteins / chemistry
  • Recombinant Fusion Proteins / genetics
  • Red Fluorescent Protein
  • Transcription Factors / genetics
  • Transformation, Bacterial

Substances

  • Luminescent Proteins
  • Peptides
  • Recombinant Fusion Proteins
  • Transcription Factors
  • Red Fluorescent Protein