One of iGEM's central values is sharing knowledge and tools with the community so future teams can build on them. In our project, we identified several opportunities to make tangible contributions on both the technical and educational levels. By documenting our insights and experiences, we aim to make synthetic biology more efficient, safer, and more accessible for future iGEM teams and the broader community.
Protein precipitation is a crucial step in SDS-PAGE and Western blot analyses. Traditionally, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is used. However, it is highly corrosive, hazardous, and time-consuming. We tested acetone as an alternative for extracting proteins from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii and found that it performs equally well while being significantly faster and safer to handle.
Through careful comparison of the two methods, we demonstrated that
acetone
precipitation yields protein samples suitable for SDS-PAGE and Western
blotting at
a loading ratio of ~1:4.85 compared to TCA. This method reduces laboratory
hazards,
saves time, and can easily be implemented by future iGEM teams
(Read more).
For the first time, we successfully expressed a single-chain variable fragment (scFv) derived from cetuximab in C. reinhardtii. Using scFvs instead of full-length antibodies simplifies transformation and protein folding in algae, offering a promising strategy for biopharmaceutical production in sustainable systems. This paves the way for future iGEM teams interested in exploring microalgae as a green alternative for antibody production.
Beyond small-scale laboratory experiments, we have demonstrated that
Chlamydomonas cultures can be scaled up to larger volumes while
maintaining their growth and protein production capacities. This provides
valuable information for teams that want to test their concepts in
conditions closer to industrial applications, not only on a micro scale
(Read more).
To promote science education, we created game cards for students that
explain key biological concepts, such as model organisms and laboratory
equipment. These cards are especially useful for beginners and curious
learners, making synthetic biology more approachable and engaging
(Read more).
We collaborated with the iGEM team in Islamabad by sharing our experience
in acquiring sponsorships. We prepared a practical fundraising guide that
explains strategies for approaching potential sponsors, structuring
presentations, and building long-term partnerships (available as a PDF).
Although our partner team could not participate this year, the guide
remains a valuable resource for any iGEM team in need of financial support
(Read more).
As part of our outreach activities, we developed a hands-on workshop on
protein purification using green fluorescent protein (GFP). Students
performed immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC) and witnessed
the striking green fluorescence of purified GFP. By making these complex
biochemical techniques accessible to high school students, we created an
educational resource that can be adapted and reused by future iGEM teams
(Read more).