The study explores the development and application of synthetic riboswitches as tools for precise gene regulation in mammalian systems. Riboswitches are RNA-based regulatory elements that respond to specific inducer molecules, enabling modular and customizable control over cellular behaviour. These synthetic constructs integrate natural RNA-mediated mechanisms and have been utilized in diverse applications such as gene therapy, bio-production, and cellular reprogramming.
The review paper focuses on the recent advances in riboswitches' design and functional implementation, highlighting emerging technologies that enhance their performance. It discusses challenges such as off-target effects, system stability, and efficient ligand delivery in complex biological environments. Synthetic riboswitches can serve as versatile platforms for genetic engineering and biomedical applications by addressing these obstacles.
Ultimately, the study emphasizes the potential of riboswitches to transform mammalian synthetic biology by providing precise, ligand-responsive control over gene expression. This innovation holds promise for advancing therapeutic strategies and understanding cellular processes.
Review Article: Khadke, R.M., Arora, V., Gupta, P. and Rode, A.B. Harnessing Synthetic Riboswitches for Tunable Gene Regulation in Mammalian Cells. ChemBioChem. 2025 Feb 24; e202401015.