Analysis of Intracellular DNA Sensor Dynamics Around DNA-Coated Microbeads Designed as Interfaces for Controlling Cellular Molecular Communication

As a model system for interface technologies to artificially control molecule-mediated communication in living cells (molecular communication), we developed a methodology in which biomolecule-coated polystyrene beads are internalized into cells, enabling measurement and control of cellular responses in the vicinity of the beads. We demonstrate that the cytosolic DNA sensor proteins barrier-to-autointegration factor and cyclic GMP-AMP synthase exhibit distinct behaviors around linear double-stranded DNA-coated polystyrene beads (DNA-beads, 2.8 µm in diameter) introduced into the cytoplasm. These findings highlight the importance of understanding and controlling the early events following cytoplasmic introduction of DNA-beads when such bead-based bio-artificial interfaces are used to regulate molecular communication in cells.