Synthetic immunology is a groundbreaking research area that has the potential to revolutionize treatments for infectious diseases and cancer. This topic is explored in the “Perspectives” section of the journal “Nature Nanotechnology.” The article features insights from researchers at Heidelberg, including Prof. Dr Kerstin Göpfrich, Prof. Dr Michael Platten, Prof. Dr Friedrich Frischknecht, and Prof. Dr Oliver T. Fackler. They introduce a novel bottom-up strategy that leverages nanotechnology and synthetic biology to create systems from molecular components, equipping them with specific immune functions. These distinguished experts specialize in various fields such as synthetic biology, neuroimmunology, parasitology, and virology, and they are affiliated with institutions like Heidelberg University, Heidelberg and Mannheim University Hospitals, the German Cancer Research Center, and the Max Planck Institute for Medical Research.
The new bottom-up strategy in synthetic immunology moves away from the traditional method of modifying existing cells or molecules. Instead, it focuses on constructing complex immune functions using molecular components such as nanoscale parts or artificial cells. This innovative approach employs techniques from synthetic biology, including the design of proteins and peptides, polymer synthesis, as well as modifications and 3D arrangements (origami) of DNA and RNA strands to create functional nanostructures.
As highlighted in the article in Nature Nanotechnology, this bottom-up method is anticipated to provide exceptional precision and control over immune function development. By creating immune components from scratch, researchers can engineer immune responses with remarkable specificity and efficiency. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of novel therapies and vaccines that avoid common pitfalls of conventional methods, such as unwanted side effects or limited effectiveness over time.
The Heidelberg team is optimistic that this approach will not only enhance existing therapeutic methods but also expand the realm of possibilities in treating complex diseases. Future advancements in this area might result in entirely synthetic immune effectors capable of preventing and treating illnesses. Prof. Göpfrich states, “We are approaching a pivotal moment in our ability to treat and prevent infectious diseases and cancer. The collaboration between synthetic biology and immunology holds the promise of developing entirely new ways to tackle diseases.”
Molecular biologist Kerstin Göpfrich, who became a professor at Ruperto Carola in 2022, leads the “Biophysical Engineering of Life” research group at the Center for Molecular Biology of Heidelberg University (ZMBH), which is also associated with the Max Planck Institute for Medical Research. Michael Platten serves as the Medical Director of the Neurological Department at the University Hospital Mannheim and heads the Mannheim Center for Translational Neuroscience at Heidelberg University’s Medical Faculty, where he has been a professor since 2016. At the German Cancer Research Center, he leads the Clinical Cooperation Unit focused on Neuroimmunology and Brain Tumor Immunology. Additionally, parasitologist Friedrich Frischknecht and virologist Oliver T. Fackler conduct research at the Center for Integrative Infectious Disease Research (CIID) within the Department for Infectious Diseases at Heidelberg University Hospital. Prof. Frischknecht has held a professorship in integrative parasitology since 2014, while Prof. Fackler has led the integrative virology research area since 2007 at Heidelberg University’s Medical Faculty.
