Trajectory Tracking for Genetic Networks Using Control Theory

Synthetic biology has impressively progressed during the last decades making it possible to rationally design and implement genetic networks with new functionalities in living microorganisms. With these new technologies the expression of genes can be observed using fluorescent markers and influenced using light flashes and photo-active expression inducers. In this contribution, we suggest the implementation of external feedback control for dynamic trajectory tracking of a synthetic genetic network. The feedback control can be implemented in living microorganisms using fluorescent markers for system readout and photo-active gene expression inducers for external control signals. In particular we show that hierarchical or sequential design for synthetic gene networks makes controlled trajectory tracking possible using the readout and control actions on few instead of all genes. Optimised trajectory tracking opens the possibility to interact and influence genetic networks in a very precise manner in terms of time and location with minimal cell burden.