Build to Understand: the Secret Lives of BioCircuits

This lecture explores the field of synthetic biology, focusing on the design and understanding of biological circuits. The instructor discusses the applications and challenges of synthetic biology, emphasizing the importance of quantitative engineering principles. Case studies with de novo designed proteins are presented, showcasing the success of engineered circuits. The lecture delves into the concept of feedback control in biological systems, highlighting the intricate details that influence system behavior. Various examples of feedback control loops are discussed, demonstrating the impact of small mechanistic differences on system outcomes. The lecture concludes by emphasizing the need to understand and sculpt biological feedback for robust system performance.