What exactly is the iGEM Competition?
In one sentence:
The worlds biggest synthetic biology contest!
At the Giant Jamboree 2023 in Paris the latest synthetic biology projects were on display.
4000
Attendes
400
Teams
50
Countries
400
Judges
With 12 villages spread across a multitude of application areas...
Climate Crisis
Environment
Therapeutics
Conservation
Food & Nutrition
Bioremediation
Agriculuture
Sotfware & A.I.
Diagnostics
Space
Foundational Advance
Biomanufacturing
Heidelberg joined iGEM in 2008!
As one of the first three teams from Germany.
Embarking on a global journey of discovery and collaboration in synthetic biology.
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Title
ECOLISCENCE to kill
Description
In our project, "Ecolicence to Kill," we're engineering E. coli to target pathogenic microorganisms, particularly those resilient in biofilms. By manipulating E. coli's chemotaxis system, we aim to create "killer" cells that seek out and destroy "prey" cells emitting specific signaling molecules. Divided into sensing and killing modules, our design orchestrates cell movement towards prey and activates bactericidal mechanisms upon proximity. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and robust project management, we're developing strategies utilizing bacteriophages and colicins. Our innovative approach holds promise not only in combating microbial threats but also as a potential model for targeting cancer cells, enhancing selectivity and potency in treatment.
Achievments
Overgrad, Collegiate
Gold Medal
Best Presentation
Best Integrated Human Practices
Best Poster
Sponsors
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Title
SPYBRICKS for your eyes only
Description
In our project, we achieve significant milestones in Synthetic Biology within mammalian systems. We develop methods to predict functional mammalian promoter sequences and synthesize promoter libraries. Additionally, we establish novel standards for measuring promoters in mammalian cells, alongside creating four RFCs and well-characterized parts. Moreover, we pioneer efforts to create a eukaryotic standard chassis and design multicolor, multi-functional output devices for promoter characterization. We also isolate and characterize natural promoters, addressing the challenges of synthetic networks' construction. Our work lays essential foundations for advancing medical and fundamental research, showcasing the potential of synthetic promoters in diverse applications, including virotherapy and gene expression control.
Achievments
Undergrad, Collegiate
1st Runner Up
Gold Medal
Best New Standart
Best Wiki
Sponsors
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Title
miBRICKS DNA is not enough
Description
In our quest, we're driven by iGEM's focus on synthetic biology. While bacterial engineering dominates, we're pioneering mammalian synthetic biology for gene therapy, targeting transgene expression control. Our innovation lies in synthetic microRNAs (miRNAs) and their binding sites, offering precise gene regulation. We've crafted a toolkit including miRNA binding site design software, standardized plasmids for expression analysis, and a modular miRNA kit for versatile genetic circuitry manipulation. Additionally, we've engineered adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors for hepatocyte-specific targeting, validated in vivo. Through computational modeling and experimental validation, we're advancing the frontier of gene therapy with a multidisciplinary approach.
Achievments
Undergrad, Collegiate
Sponsors
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Title
iGEMS
Unveil the invisibleDescription
We endeavored to devise an affordable and straightforward tool to gauge UV and radioactive damage in living cells. Our solution involved creating a biological system within E.coli capable of detecting a wide spectrum of UV radiation doses, gauged by a color reaction in the bacterial suspension. Leveraging E.coli's natural SOS response, a universal repair mechanism triggered by DNA damage, we developed a construct utilizing synthetic plasmids. We selected promoters like recA and sulA for their suitability and specificity, while reporter genes lacZ and gfp facilitated observation. Our endeavor culminated in iGEMS, potentially wearable solutions to monitor UV exposure.
Achievments
High School
Grand Prize Winnner
Gold Medal
Best Wiki
Best Presentation
Best New BioBrick
Best Measurement
Sponsors
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Title
Heidelberg's Philosopher Stone
Description
Our team led a groundbreaking project focused on advancing peptide synthesis, pioneering a novel approach to tailor peptides for diverse applications. Key achievements include developing synthetic Non-Ribosomal Peptide Synthetases (NRPSs), enabling the creation of custom peptides beyond proteinogenic amino acids. We innovated an in-vivo labeling technique for easy peptide detection and purification. Our standardized framework, including the NRPS Designer software, facilitates the design and production of user-defined peptides. Moreover, we showcased the environmental potential by engineering E. coli to recycle gold from electronic waste using NRPS pathways. This project underscores the transformative power of non-ribosomal peptide synthesis for addressing modern challenges.
Achievments
Undergrad, Collegiate
Grand Prize Winner
Best Foundational Advance Project
Gold Medal
Sponsors
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Title
The Ring of FIRE
Description
We, the iGEM Team Heidelberg 2014, delved into a pioneering project exploring the realm of circular proteins, nature's ingenious creations without a defined beginning or end. Through innovative techniques, we harnessed protein circularization, paving the way for synthetic biology advancements in heat stability. Introducing Split Inteins, we unlocked the mechanism of protein circularization, fortified by meticulous modeling. Our trailblazing software, CRAUT, facilitated optimal protein connection while engaging global participation through iGEM@home, revolutionizing distributed computing in synthetic biology. Our application, a circular heat-stable DNA methyltransferase, promises a paradigm shift in PCR technology, preserving epigenetic information. With an Intein Toolbox and RFC standards, we empower protein modification. We are grateful for the collaborative support fueling our journey of scientific discovery.
Achievments
Undergrad, Collegiate
Grand Prize Winner
Best Foundational Advance Project
Gold Medal
Best Supporting Software
iGEMers Prize
Sponsors
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Title
Catch it if you can
Description
Diving into the realm of functional nucleic acids began with DNA's recognition as the genetic information carrier in 1952. Since then, the field has burgeoned, uncovering RNA's diverse roles beyond transcription and translation. Catalytic RNA, like the Hammerhead Ribozyme (HHR) and hepatitis δ virus ribozyme (HDV), emerged, offering precise cleavage without leaving scars. Inspired by these discoveries, we explored further, discovering the twin ribozyme and engineering aptamers for selective ligand binding. Our project integrates these findings, developing software to expedite aptamer creation and fusion with catalytic nucleic acids, propelling Synthetic Biology forward and democratizing access to functional nucleic acids. Join us in this exploration!
Achievments
Undergrad, Collegiate
Best Foundational Advance Project
2nd Runner Up
Gold Medal
iGEMers Prize
Best Poster
Sponsors
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Title
The phage and the furious
Description
We, the iGEM team Heidelberg, leverage Darwinian evolution's potency to expedite biomolecule engineering for human advancement. Building upon the PACE method, we simplify and expand its application with a standardized toolbox, enabling diverse uses including organosilicon production. Our directed in vivo evolution workflow enhances enzyme functionality, while AiGEM, our AI for Genetic Evolution Mimicking software, facilitates de novo functionality generation. By integrating DeeProtein with GAIA, we establish a closed, in silico evolution cycle, yielding superior beta-lactamase variants. Demonstrating AiGEM's prowess, we evolve a highly efficient beta-galactosidase. Additionally, SafetyNet ensures experiment safety. Together, we pioneer a novel Synthetic Biology engineering paradigm.
Achievments
Undergrad, Collegiate
Best Foundational Advance Project
2nd Runner Up
Gold Medal
Best Software Tool
Best Integrated Human Practices
Best Presentation
Best Wiki
Best Poster
Sponsors
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Title
Fantastic yeasts and how to evolve them
Description
We initiated a project to evolve yeast mating receptors for detecting custom peptides, inspired by previous research. Our approach involved in-vivo mutagenesis using a hyper-faulty DNA polymerase and in-vitro DNA shuffling. We optimized selective pressures, ligand changes, and intracellular cues for effective directed evolution. Additionally, we developed reporter constructs for variant selection and rational design strategies. In silico tools were crafted to support experimental runs, including mathematical models and machine learning for fitness landscape simulation. Originally motivated by ASFV detection, we pivoted towards a versatile peptide detection platform. Our aim is to establish a robust system for live-cell detection of various peptide ligands, enhancing biosensing capabilities.
Achievments
Overgrad, Collegiate
Gold Medal
Sponsors
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Title
The Legend of CELLDA:
a link between proteinsDescription
We, the iGEM Team Heidelberg 2020, embarked on a mission to expand the realm of biological manipulation beyond DNA regulation. Our project, "The Legend of Cellda," delved into leveraging RNA and RNA-binding proteins to control cellular systems. Through meticulous design principles, we developed RNA-linked fusion proteins and assessed their association strength. Exploring PPR and Pumilio Homology domains, we crafted assays to gauge their suitability for RNA control. Introducing PRISM, a language model, and 3DOC for protein structure generation, we extended our reach. Beyond proteins, our innovations included RNA Triple-Helices and Tetrahymena Trans-splicing Ribozyme redesigns. Complementing our efforts, we fostered science communication via educational booklets, digital science slams, and RISE, a universal search engine for the iGEM community.
Achievments
Overgrad, Collegiate
Gold Medal
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Title
How to train your Microbiome
Description
We embarked on a groundbreaking project focusing on revolutionizing microbiome-associated diseases treatment. Exploring the vast world of the microbiome, we discovered potential in personalized therapies using natural bacterial transformation. Unlike current methods like FMT, our approach aims to target specific genes without disrupting the delicate microbiome balance. Through extensive research, we identified natural competent bacteria and designed plasmids for targeted gene expression. Our innovative model utilizes capsules to deliver therapeutic plasmids to the gut, offering hope for patients with inherited one gene diseases. With expert collaboration and meticulous experimentation, we've laid a promising foundation for future microbiome therapies.
Achievments
Overgrad, Collegiate
Gold Medal
Sponsors
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Title
siRNA Tech for Neuroinfections:
Investigators of Team Heidelberg came together to develop siRNAs against HSV, packed in liposomes for transportation to the brainDescription
We, the Heidelberg iGEM Team, are addressing the global threat of viral encephalitis, focusing on herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE). Current treatments are inadequate, hence the introduction of Hersiran, a novel therapeutic platform utilizing siRNA in liposomes. Hersiran offers precise targeting of infected neuronal cells by bypassing the blood-brain barrier. Leveraging E. coli for siRNA production and microfluidics for liposomal optimization, we aim to achieve effective treatment. With its specificity and adaptability, Hersiran holds promise beyond HSE. Our future endeavors include refining formulations, conducting safety assessments, and advancing to clinical trials. Through Hersiran, we endeavor to revolutionize encephalitis treatment on a global scale, bringing hope to millions affected by this devastating disease.
Achievments
Overgrad, Collegiate
Gold Medal
Sponsors
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Title
ReMixHD: A novel bioremediation method using a Pseudomonas fluorescens co-culture for enzymatic mixed plastic degradation
Description
Our ReMixHD platform emerges as a novel method for upcycling mixed plastic using a co-culture of genetically modified Pseudomonas fluorescens. We introduced polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene degrading enzymes. Two in-vivo biosensors can control the expression of a growth factor depending on the concentration of the monomers, terephthalic acid and alkanes. The main strain uses terephthalic acid as a carbon source to synthesize a recombinant product. Furthermore, we established P. fluorescens as a new chassis organism for bioremediation and designed a cutting-edge genome-scale metabolic model that can model co-culture dynamically for industrialization. This innovative platform technology paves the way toward sustainable production, development, and environmental stewardship.
Achievments
Overgrad, Collegiate
Best Bioremediation Project
Top 10
Gold Medal
Best Composite Part
Best Sustainable Development Goals
Sponsors
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