Abstracts

(In the order of jamboree presentation)

Team #1: McGill BIOMOD (McGill University)
Title: Pacman Lipid Nanoparticle
Abstract: Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is one of the most abundant proteins in human blood. When it binds to drug nanocarriers, it activates the alternative complement pathway, accelerating the engulfment of the nanocarriers into macrophages before they can deliver their therapeutic payload. We propose the active removal of IgG from the surface of drug nanocarriers via surface-conjugated proteolytic enzymes. Proteases capable of cleaving IgG on nanoparticle surfaces would proactively modify the local biological environment, preventing or reducing the formation of a pro-phagocytic protein corona on the surfaces of drug nanocarriers. We sought to conjugate the proteases to an emerging drug nanocarrier, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), using EDC-NHS coupling, and then quantify how much less IgG binds to lipid nanoparticles with protease compared to those without. This strategy has the potential to standardize drug nanocarrier properties, increase the systemic circulation time of the drug nanocarriers, improve their uptake by target cells, and facilitate the controlled release of their therapeutic payload.

Team #2: Nano-JLU (Jilin University)
Title: A two-dimensional supramolecular material formed by G-quadroplex and tetrahedral DNA
Abstract: Two-dimensional materials, owing to their atomic-scale thickness, possess an unrivaled specific surface area that exposes every atom to the external environment, while their high in-plane mechanical strength and exceptional optoelectronic properties endow them with unique advantages for sensing, catalysis, and data-storage applications unmatched by any other materials. Conventional 2D materials such as graphene, MoS₂, or MXenes, however, exhibit limited biocompatibility and potential cytotoxicity, restricting their application in biological settings.
In contrast, DNA offers an intrinsically biocompatible and programmable alternative for constructing bio-friendly 2D membranes. However, current DNA 2D membranes are still confined to weak interactions such as hydrogen bonding, hydrophobic, and electrostatic interactions, which cannot lock the conformational orientation of chemical bonds, leading to structural defects and thickness heterogeneity.
Here, we developed a 2D supramolecular DNA membrane that strategically suppresses out-of-plane bonding and enables ion-gated, reversible modulation. The building block is a tetrahedral DNA nanostructure (TDN), a rigid tetrahedron self-assembled from four oligonucleotides via Watson–Crick pairing; Its vertices can be extended with functional sequences. The connecting mechanism employs a G-quadruplex (G₄). Upon K⁺ binding, guanine-rich sequences fold into a four-stranded stack that defines a central ion pore. The pore coordinates K⁺ and neutralizes electrostatic repulsion, producing a rigid and stable linkage whose folding–unfolding switch is reversibly controlled by ion occupancy. In our design, guanine-rich repeat sequences protrude from three vertices of each tetrahedral DNA nanostructure (TDN). Upon addition of K⁺, pairs of guanine-rich repeats from the TDN vertices fold into a G-quadruplex, establishing a stable linkage. With guanine-rich overhangs present at only three vertices, the TDNs are topologically constrained to assemble into either two-dimensional sheets or three-dimensional objects. Both the TDN scaffold and the G₄ quadruplex possess appreciable rigidity. When two TDNs are bridged by a G₄ quadruplex, the junction presents a TDN on both its upper and lower sides. Out-of-plane bending driven by any external force (hydrogen bonding, etc.) elicits steric repulsion from the opposite TDN edge. This symmetrical barrier annihilates the torque required for three-dimensional growth, continuously canceling off-plane bonding pathways and confining extension to the original plane, thereby yielding stable two-dimensional growth. Thus, a supramolecular DNA membrane that combines high biocompatibility with ion-modulated assembly and robust two-dimensional growth is constructed.
Furthermore, by controlling the ion-regulated assembly, we can program the functional state of the DNA membrane on demand, enabling applications in drug delivery, biosensing, and tissue engineering.

Team #3: Biomod team Tokyo (Unversity of Tokyo)
Title: DNA hydrogel controlled by toolbox
Abstract: Conventional drug delivery systems (DDS) suffer from low target accumulation and a narrow therapeutic window due to systemic distribution, leading to off-target effects and significant toxicity. To overcome these limitations, we propose a novel platform for a smart DDS based on a DNA hydrogel controlled by a programmable DNA toolbox. Our system is comprised of two core components: a DNA hydrogel acting as a biocompatible "Vehicle" to encapsulate a therapeutic payload, and a DNA-based chemical reaction network, or "Toolbox," serving as the "Brain" for autonomous control. The core of our design is a DNA oscillator that generates rhythmic chemical signals (outputs α and β), coupled with an interface module that translates these signals into the physical actuation of the hydrogel. The oscillator outputs trigger separate amplification cascades that produce "extender" and "shrinker" strands, respectively. These strands reversibly modulate the hydrogel's cross-linking bridge components, inducing cyclic expansion and contraction. The primary goal of this project was to establish a proof-of-concept for this system in two key steps: first, to demonstrate fundamental control by achieving rhythmic actuation of a single hydrogel, and second, to generate directed motion, akin to peristalsis, by coordinating two distinct hydrogels oscillating out of phase. Our theoretical framework presents a versatile and highly programmable platform for creating dynamic DNA-based materials. By modularly substituting components of the DNA toolbox, the system's behavior can be readily reprogrammed, opening new avenues for the development of autonomous nanorobots for advanced therapeutic applications and smart materials.

Team #4: SYNBIO UB (Brawijaya University)
Title: AMPAT : Arsenal of Programmed Microalgae for Advanced Tumor Immunotherapy via Logic-Gated Genetic Circuits
Abstract: Cancer and tumor remains one of the leading global health challenges, although immunotherapy has demonstrated greater specificity than conventional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, critical barriers remain. Systemic immunotherapies often fail to eradicate tumors in deep or anatomically inaccessible sites that may still induce severe off-target immune responses. Moreover, the hypoxic tumor microenvironment, caused by rapid tumor growth that outpaces vascular supply, impairs immune surveillance and diminishes therapeutic efficacy. To address these challenges, we propose a novel synthetic biology based strategy employing engineered live microalgae as a programmable and tumor-precise immunotherapeutic platform. Microalgae naturally thrive in hypoxic conditions and are capable of in situ oxygen production under near-infrared light, thereby alleviating tumor hypoxia and restoring an immune-permissive environment. Our design integrates two functional modules: “Locate” and “Terminate”. In the “Locate” module, microalgal flagella facilitate active migration toward tumors following hypoxia gradients, while chromosomally integrated CD47 provides immune evasion by mimicking red blood cell surface markers. In the Terminate module, engineered plasmids encode an arsenal of immunomodulators (IL-12, CCL21, anti PD-1, anti CTLA-4, and surface T-cell engagers) controlled by a dual-input genetic circuit. This circuit employs -AND logic, gated by toehold switches that respond to two microRNAs, one that generally presents as growth factor in the cell and one that expressed specifically in the cancer cell, ensuring expression is restricted to cancer cells. To ensure biocontainment of the engineered microalgae, two failsafe mechanisms are incorporated. First, a temperature-sensitive module that limits survival in inflammatory increasing temperature. Second, a genetic safeguard prevents horizontal plasmid transfer by linking plasmid retention to a toxin–antitoxin system. As proof of concept, we designed the complete plasmid framework, gene circuit logic, CRISPR Cas9 RNA guides for chromosomal editing, and specific miRNA triggers for toehold switches. Together, this platform demonstrates an innovative approach, integrating synthetic biology and living microalgae to achieve precise, safe, and programmable cancer immunotherapy. Keyword: Cancer, Immunotherapy, Microalgae, and Synthetic Biology

Team #5: UBC BIOMOD (University of British Columbia)
Title: PRO-GEL: A PROtein Producing HydroGEL
Abstract: The growing demand in the global market for recombinant protein products demonstrates the need for production methods with higher efficiency. Traditional forms of protein production systems have been cell-based, which means they face inherent inefficiencies in the design-to-production pipeline. Notably, biochemical studies estimate that up to 70% of the energy used in bacterial protein production is consumed by central metabolism rather than protein synthesis. In contrast, recent studies have demonstrated that reusable DNA-hydrogel cell-free protein production (CFPP) systems, especially when used in combination with microfabricated platforms enable continuous and on-demand protein synthesis, highlighting its potential as a scalable and sustainable alternative to conventional methods.

To demonstrate the potential for the hydrogel-based CFPP system, we chose carbonic anhydrase (CA), a universal biocatalyst involved in the fixation of carbon dioxide into bicarbonate, serving as one of the leading techniques for carbon fixation. In this project, based on an existing design by Park et. al, X-shaped DNA monomers were hybridized with linearized pET plasmids containing CA gene template to form a network of self-assembled DNA polymers. Once hydrated, the system forms a hydrogel capable of expressing proteins from the embedded gene templates when incubated in E.coli lysate. To maximize the protein production time frame, we optimized the stability of the X-monomer within the hydrogel network using molecular dynamics analysis, and the gel’s surface area to volume ratio through diffusion simulations. Using our optimized gel dimensions, we created a polydimethylsiloxane mould to help shape hydrogel into this optimal geometry. We purified CA using nickel affinity chromatography. The yield and functionality of the protein product were confirmed using a SDS-PAGE and carbonic anhydrase activity assays.These metrics were compared to traditional cell-based expression to qualitatively study the benefit of cell free systems. Finally, a comprehensive cost analysis was carried out to inform strategies for upscaling and viability for real-world use cases.

The results of our work may show that the CFPP hydrogel system offers a promising alternative to traditional cell-based methods for certain use cases, thus potentially providing an improved way to mass synthesize proteins beyond CA.

Team #6: Team Sendai (Tohoku University)
Title: Hungry Gel ~An Artificial Macrophage Based on a DNA Hydrogel~
Abstract: Inspired by the phagocytic function of macrophages, we have designed an intelligent DNA hydrogel that autonomously recognizes and engulfs target bacteria. This system integrates three functional DNA modules: a DNA aptamer as a sensor, an entropy-driven circuit as a signal amplifier, and the DNA hydrogel itself as the capturing medium. The process is initiated when the aptamer specifically binds to a target bacterium. This recognition event triggers the amplification circuit, causing a massive release of single-stranded DNA that cleaves the hydrogel's cross-links. Consequently, the hydrogel matrix selectively dissolves in the immediate proximity of the bacterium, thereby capturing and enclosing it in a manner analogous to cellular phagocytosis. We will experimentally demonstrate these core functions. Looking ahead, this platform holds promise for future applications as an "artificial macrophage" by incorporating a bactericidal or neutralizing function, offering a novel therapeutic strategy for bacterial infections.

Team #7: xmu-HeliCipher (Xiamen University)
Title: Helicipher
Abstract: Counterfeit products pose severe global economic and safety challenges, with existing authentication technologies such as QR codes and RFID tags often lacking sufficient security, durability, and accessibility. To address these issues, we present XMU-HeliCipher, an innovative anti-counterfeiting platform grounded in biomolecular design. Harnessing the programmability of DNA, we engineer unique molecular identities that are intrinsically unforgeable and environmentally robust.
At the core of our system is a computational design pipeline that algorithmically converts product-specific data into optimized DNA sequences. Our proprietary framework ensures high information density, thermodynamic stability, and biochemical synthesizability, embodying a holistic approach to de novo biomolecular design. These custom sequences are subsequently synthesized and encapsulated within protective silica nanoparticles, yielding DNA tags that withstand extreme conditions including heat, UV exposure, and oxidation. These tags can be readily incorporated into various material formats such as inks, polymers, and packaging substrates.
For authentication, we developed a multi-level biomolecular detection strategy: Level 1 employs recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) for rapid visual field testing; Levels 2 and 3 utilize sequencing for definitive forensic verification. This tiered approach ensures both accessibility and security across different use contexts. By integrating computational biology, DNA nanotechnology, and materials science, XMU-HeliCipher demonstrates a fully programmable, scalable, and secure solution to product counterfeiting. Our project highlights the power of biomolecular design to create functional molecular systems with real-world impact, offering a new paradigm for trust and traceability in global supply chains. Through XMU-HeliCipher, we showcase how life’s molecular language can be written into tomorrow’s security infrastructure.

Team #8: UCalgary BIOMOD (University of Calgary)
Title: AptaMod: Colorimetric Aptamer-based LFA Biosensor for Alzheimer’s Disease Detection
Abstract: Early detection of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) remains a critical unmet need. Current diagnostic methods are often invasive, costly, slow, and implemented too late in disease progression. To meet this need, the development of AptaMod, a novel detection method for Alzheimer’s disease, was created. The proposed biosensor design integrates a DNA aptazyme with a lateral flow assay (LFA) for rapid, minimally invasive detection of AD biomarkers. The biosensor targets a blood-based biomarker, beta-amyloid, which is elevated in early AD. The DNA aptazyme has a specific binding site for the biomarker. Upon biomarker binding, the aptazyme undergoes a conformational change that brings horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and its substrate, 3,3’,5,5’-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) into close proximity. The enzyme HRP oxidizes TMB, producing a visible blue colorimetric signal within minutes. In order to reduce waste, a toehold-mediated strand displacement (TMSD) mechanism enables reusability by replacing the aptazyme component without discarding the entire device. The integration of our developed DNA aptazyme into an LFA platform allows for portability, rapid readout, and potential adaptation to multiple biomarkers. This design offers a potential low-cost, modular, and sensitive diagnostic tool that could be incorporated into routine check-ups, enabling earlier intervention and detection, improving patient outcomes, and significantly reducing diagnostic turnaround time from weeks to minutes.

Team #9: UCD BIOMOD (University of California, Davis)
Title: LifeHack
Abstract: While concepts like Winner-Take-All neural networks and perceptron logic have been successfully demonstrated using DNA toehold-mediated strand displacement (TMSD), the translation of complex DNA computing into therapeutic applications remains limited. Here, we adapt an end-to-end prototype for designing deep differential logic gate neural networks capable of learning the cellular automata rules of Conway’s Game of Life, and translate this computational model into a functional DNA-based device for synthetic biology applications. To accelerate the design process, we use imitation learning from reinforcement learning to enhance the speed of nucleic acid design software (NUAD) for rapidly determining strand domain sequences. Following the conversion of the computational model to a DNA-based device, we conducted in silico simulations to validate the performance and logic fidelity of the DNA-based implementation. By improving the efficiency of the domain search and DNA gate design process, this work aims to facilitate the development of more advanced therapeutic treatments based on DNA computing and nanotechnology. We hope that by providing these accessible design tools, synthetic biologists will be able to adapt logic systems to design more intuitive devices for specific nanotechnology or computing applications, particularly for therapeutic use.

Team #10: BIOMOD TUAT (Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology)
Title: Gate-controlled Internal Facing Transport system(GIFTs)
Abstract: Liposomes are utilized in drug delivery systems (DDS) and in the construction of molecular robots by encapsulating drug molecules and various biomolecules[1][2]. In particular, liposome-based DDS have been shown to improve therapeutic efficacy while reducing side effects[3]. Combination therapy is suggested to be more effective for certain diseases. In such cases, precise control of drug release in both timing and order is required. However, most current DDS rely on simple sustained drug release and lack such control functionalities. Therefore, the development of spatiotemporally controlled liposomes, also known as smart DDS, is highly desired [4].
In this project, we propose a molecular robot, GIFTs (Gate-controlled Internal Facing Transport system), based on multicompartment liposomes. This system enables the selective release of encapsulated molecules in response to DNA signals.
GIFTs are artificial cell-like systems in which multiple vesicles (inner liposomes) are encapsulated within one larger outer liposome. Such encapsulation makes it possible to isolate different types of molecules within a single outer liposome. Furthermore, both outer and inner liposomes are equipped with DNA origami nanopore structures for molecular release. To prevent leakage of their contents, nanopores on inner liposomes are sealed with lid.

In addition to this molecular release system, we designed a reusable docking–undocking mechanism based on strand displacement reactions. Upon the introduction of signal DNA strands, the lids of nanopores on the inner liposomes are removed, allowing the inner and outer liposomes to connect via nanopores. Subsequent addition of signal and lid DNA strands undocks the nanopores and reseals them, thereby returning the system to its initial state. This reversible mechanism enables repeated and precisely timed drug release. Our proposing GIFTs allows spatiotemporal separation and controlled drug release and GIFTs will provide a new direction for future therapeutic strategies.

[1] L. D. Leserman, J. N. Weinstein, R. Blumenthal, and W. D. Terry, “Lipid bilayer properties and permeability of liposomes,” Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A., vol. 77, no. 7, pp. 4089–4093, 1980. [Online]. Available: https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.77.7.4089

[2] F. J. Martin, W. L. Hubbell, and D. Papahadjopoulos, “Interactions of liposomes with cells: Effects of surface charge and size,” Biochemistry, vol. 20, no. 14, pp. 4229–4238, 1981. [Online]. Available: https://doi.org/10.1021/bi00517a043

[3] Y. Barenholz, “Doxil® — The first FDA-approved nano-drug: Lessons learned,” J. Control. Release, vol. 160, no. 2, pp. 117–134, 2012. [Online]. Available: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jconrel.2012.03.020

[4] Y. Liu, Q. Chen, H. Zhang, J. Wang, and Y. Gao, “Innovations in cancer therapy: Endogenous stimuli-responsive liposomal nanocarriers,” Pharmaceutics, vol. 15, no. 5, p. 1465, 2023. [Online]. Available: https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17020245

Team #11: BioKillers (Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey)
Title: Folding Science into Therapy: Dual-Weapon DNA Origami Nanocarriers for Cancer
Abstract: Colorectal cancer is the third most prevalent cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. While it primarily affects individuals over 50, mortality rates among younger populations have been rising by approximately 1% per year since the mid-2000s. Despite extensive efforts to combat this disease, conventional treatments remain limited due to several factors, including systemic drug toxicity that causes severe side effects, tumor resistance and recurrence, and poor selectivity, which results in damage to both healthy and cancerous cells. To address these challenges, we propose a novel drug delivery system based on the controlled release of curcumin and quercetin via mesoporous silica nanoparticles functionalized with DNA origami sheets conjugated to 5TR1 aptamers. This approach enables targeted delivery to the A33 glycoprotein, a cell surface antigen expressed in over 95% of human colorectal cancers. Preliminary trials focused on characterizing the system to evaluate its feasibility as a drug carrier, first analyzing the properties of the free carrier and then with the phytochemicals encapsulated. Future work will investigate the drug delivery efficiency mediated by aptamer–receptor interactions, aiming to confirm selective uptake by cancer cells while minimizing effects on healthy tissues.

Team #12: miRage (Kyushu University)
Title: Kinesin-Based Biosensor for Detecting Disease-Specific miRNA
Abstract: Recent studies have revealed the existence of miRNA markers whose expression is specifically upregulated in certain diseases such as cancer, Parkinson’s disease, and glaucoma, and these markers are attracting attention as potential biomarkers for early disease detection. However, the currently mainstream diagnostic techniques, including real-time PCR and microarray analysis, face challenges in terms of time and economic cost, the need for large-scale equipment, and the requirement for specialized technical expertise. For people living in remote or medically underserved areas, those with limited time to undergo testing due to work, and the elderly, these challenges pose significant barriers to testing, preventing early detection and ultimately allowing disease progression. To address these issues, we attempted to develop a foundational technology for a simple, low-cost, and visually interpretable method for early screening.
In this biosensor, three components are prepared in solution: microtubule asters radiating from magnetic beads, DNA multimers in which up to four biotinylated DNAs are bound to neutravidin, and kinesin-1 proteins conjugated with DNA. When the concentration of a specific miRNA increases, the miRNA crosslinks complementary DNAs on these components, leading to the formation of kinesin multimers. These multimers generate cohesive forces between microtubule asters, resulting in gel formation, thereby enabling the visual detection of miRNA.
This aggregation reaction can be observed under a microscope with approximately 20× magnification, making it suitable for application in simple diagnostic tests. Furthermore, by converting the aggregation of microtubule asters into responses to light or temperature, this system could potentially be applied as a novel material whose gelation can be freely controlled.

Team #13: Team Science Tokyo (Institute of Science Tokyo)
Title: Arbitrary Planar Design Using Avidin-Biotin Binding
Abstract: DNA origami is a technique that constructs nanoscale structures by combining circular DNA with numerous short single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) molecules. Current strategies for bending DNA origami include methods that induce curvature in response to ionic concentration and those that employ ssDNA. However, these approaches present several limitations: curvature is dependent on ionic concentration, ssDNA modifications may distort the original structure, pH and temperature fluctuations can destabilize the assembly, and the need of designated multiple uniquely complementary ssDNA sequence.
To address these issues, we propose an approach that bends dsDNA using the avidin–biotin binding. Compared with hydrogen bonding between bases, which has been traditionally used to bend dsDNA, the avidin–biotin binding is highly resistant to changes in pH and temperature. In addition, the avidin–biotin complex has a diameter of only 5 nm, which is smaller than ssDNA typically used for bending. Furthermore，curvature can therefore be introduced through the relatively simple design of biotin modification, thereby resolving the limitations of existing techniques.
In this method, specific thymine bases in DNA were modified with biotin through carbon chain linkers, yielding dsDNA with two outward-facing biotins. When these two biotins interact with a single neutral avidin, the dsDNA is pulled taut like a string and bends accordingly. Moreover, the curvature of the bent dsDNA can be tuned by adjusting the length of the carbon chain (spacer length) linking dsDNA to biotin, as well as the distance between the two biotins.
We first carried out simulations using linear dsDNA. These studies confirmed that both spacer length and inter-biotin distance significantly influence dsDNA curvature. Also, we're going to conduct experiments to verify the results of the simulation.
Our goal is to elucidate the relationship between dsDNA curvature, spacer length, and biotin spacing, enabling precise curvature design.
We aim to induce bending at multiple sites, thereby generating complex three-dimensional DNA curved surfaces. Such highly robust and flexibly designed DNA 3D architectures may enable the creation of unprecedented DNA origami structures and the development of DNA assemblies that do not depend on environmental conditions such as ionic concentration.

Team #14: YOKABIO (Kyushu Institute of Technology)
Title: DNA-clock
Abstract: Many organisms possess internal clocks that regulate physiological processes such as sleep and wakefulness. Elucidating and reconstructing the mechanisms by which internal clocks generate and maintain temporal information is expected to advance synthetic biology and deepen our understanding at the molecular level. Therefore, in this study we propose a “DNA clock” that reproduces the periodicity of the internal clock in vitro using a programmable DNA oscillator. This DNA clock is expected to serve as a basic module for handling temporal information. The objective of this study is to establish techniques that expand the design freedom of the oscillation period of the DNA oscillator constituting the DNA clock.
As a basic strategy, we covalently modify the template DNA with amino-acid residues to design different oscillation periods. This approach may allow modulation of oscillatory dynamics without major changes to sequence design or external temperature conditions. Amino acids for modification are selected based on simulations to achieve the target periods.
A DNA-based oscillatory system (DNA oscillator) can be implemented as an isothermal dynamic reaction network using the PEN (polymerase–exonuclease–nickase) toolbox, producing periodic fluctuations in the concentrations of specific DNA species. In this study, we constructed a system employing three single-stranded DNA molecules—a template DNA and two strands that function complementarily to it—in which amplification and degradation proceed via enzymatic reactions. We evaluated how amino-acid modification of the template DNA affects the hybridization association/dissociation rates (k_on/k_off) and the effective rates of the nickase, polymerase, and exonuclease reactions, demonstrating the potential to control the oscillation period.
The oscillatory behavior was recorded by real-time fluorescence isothermal measurements using a qPCR instrument, and the resulting time-series data were analyzed and validated through mathematical modeling and simulation. We are currently verifying the reproducibility of DNA oscillations and confirming covalent DNA–amino-acid modification, with plans to evaluate the systematic effects of the modifications on the oscillation period. These technologies are expected to expand the design freedom of periods required in vivo and ultimately lead to the realization of DNA clocks that operate within living systems.

Team #15: NTU_Taiwan (National Taiwan University)
Title: DNA Origami-Guided NK Cell-Exosome Engineering for Targeted Lung Cancer Therapy
Abstract: Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths, with over 1.8 million fatalities annually. Despite advancements in treatment, the prognosis for late-stage patients remains poor. Exosomes derived from NK cells naturally carry potent cytotoxic proteins, such as perforin and granzymes, that can induce apoptosis in cancer cells. However, their therapeutic effectiveness is limited by poor targeting specificity.
To address this, we will functionalize NK92-derived exosomes with DNA origami scaffolds displaying the S2.2 MUC1 aptamer (Kd ~0.135 nM). Our DNA origami design is folded into a planar structure, with one side conjugated to an aptamer that binds to NK-92 exosomes, while the aptamers on the opposite side of the plane can bind to A549 target cells. This modification will enhance binding and uptake by A549 lung cancer cells, which overexpress MUC1, thereby improving the specificity and efficacy of the exosome-mediated cytotoxicity. We hypothesize that this aptamer-driven targeting will increase exosome delivery to A549 cells, boosting cytotoxicity compared to non-targeted exosomes.
The future of our research is to confirm the aptamer-origami-exosome conjugation, evaluate binding and uptake in A549 vs control cells, and assess cell death through viability assays. This approach is hoped to enhance NK-cell therapy by improving targeting and delivery efficiency and provide a modular platform that can be adapted to target other cancers by switching aptamers. This method will ultimately combine the natural cytotoxicity of NK-cell exosomes with precise, customizable DNA nanotechnology to advance cancer immunotherapy.

Team #16: auxetiX (Nagahama Institute of Bio-Science and Technology)
Title: TBD
Abstract: TBD

Team #17: Team Kansai (Kansai University)
Title: Anisotropic phase separation of DNA origami on liposome membranes
Abstract: [Background and Motivation ] Artificial cell-like systems such as liposomes have attracted much attention as platforms for molecular robotics. One of the major challenges in this field is how to impart directionality or anisotropy to otherwise isotropic membranes. Many previous approaches have depended on internal motors or external stimuli. In this project, we aimed to develop a simpler way to induce anisotropy directly on membranes.
[Approach] We attempted to generate anisotropy on liposome membranes using DNA origami nanostructures. Two types of DNA origami, triangle and rectangle, were designed, prepared, and mixed at a final concentration of 2.5 nM. Liposomes were prepared from DOPC by the hydration method, and supported lipid bilayers (SLBs) were formed on mica substrates. The DNA origami mix was added onto the SLBs, incubated, and the resulting assemblies were observed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). We also varied conditions such as incubation time and temperature to investigate how the clustering and distribution of DNA origami on membranes depend on membrane fluidity and external factors.
[Results and Significance ] AFM observations showed that DNA origami structures exhibited shape-dependent clustering, and domain-like structures were observed on the membranes. Such spontaneous arrangements suggest the possibility of imparting anisotropy to membrane surfaces. This study indicates that anisotropy can potentially be induced by the self-organization of DNA origami and the physical properties of lipid membranes, without using molecular motors.
These results open the possibility of a new design strategy for molecular robots, in which directional cues are embedded directly into the membrane. In the future, this approach may also be extended to applications such as drug delivery carriers or artificial cells, where membrane patterning and anisotropy play important roles.

Team #18: HAUT-BIO (Henan University of Technology)
Title: Construction of Bio-based Microporous and Mesoporous Materials and Their Applications in Enzyme Immobilization
Abstract: Herein, we report the rational design of a biofunctional metal-organic framework (MOF) with a hierarchical microporous-mesoporous architecture for robust enzyme stabilization. Enzymatic catalysis offers advantages such as mild reaction conditions and environmental friendliness with high efficiency; however, extreme conditions prevalent in practical applications—such as elevated temperatures and organic solvents—often result in rapid enzyme deactivation. Thus, enzyme immobilization strategies are commonly employed to bolster stability. In this study, we implemented a competitive coordination approach, wherein the biomacromolecular ligand nucleoside monophosphate and the small-molecule ligand 2-methylimidazole competitively coordinate with zinc ions in an ambient aqueous environment, yielding a MOF material featuring a microporous-mesoporous composite structure with diverse ligand compositions. Successful fabrication of the hierarchical microporous-mesoporous MOF was verified through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and related characterizations, revealing that nucleoside monophosphate incorporation markedly enhances the MOF's stability under acidic conditions. By introducing enzyme molecules during the competitive coordination process, interactions between MOF ligands and enzyme amino acid residues further reinforce protein conformation, substantially improving enzymatic tolerance to conventional organic solvents and high temperatures. This work establishes a straightforward, eco-friendly methodology for bio-hybrid material engineering, providing a versatile platform for deploying resilient biocatalysts in challenging industrial scenarios.

Team #19: Team ZZU (Zhengzhou University)
Title: Antibiotic Nanozyme:A Novel Approach to Dealing with Antibiotic Resistance
Abstract: Antibiotic resistance represents a significant and growing threat to global public health. Current strategies for antibiotic modification suffer from limitations such as limited universality and single mechanistic actions. A well-known mechanism for the development of resistance to multiple antibiotics involves a decrease in microbial redox levels, which leads to a dormant state and a reduction in the uptake of antibiotics. Aditionally, the robust polymer matrix of biofilms further shields microorganisms by restricting antibiotic penetration. Previous study has reported that disruption of redox homeostasis can effectively eliminate the “dormant bodies” of microorganisms and disrupt the integrity of biofilms. Moreover, nanozymes exhibit enzyme-mimetic catalytic activity and modulate microbial redox homeostasis through the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Therefore, we can modulate the intracellular redox homeostasis of microorganisms to enhance their uptake of antibiotics by designing antibiotic nanozymes.
Based on this, we propose to design antibiotic nanozyme that integrates antibiotics into the structure of nanozyme, while also combining hemin to induce catalytic activity. This antibiotic nanozyme retains its antibiotic component, enabling it to substitute histidine through axial coordination to gain catalytic properties, effectively degrading biofilms and altering microbial membrane permeability to improve antibiotic uptake. Furthermore, we selected a series of representative antibiotics for this study, including gentamicin (GM), fluconazole (FCZ), along with virtually screened molecules such as rapamycin (RAPA) and ceftriaxone (CRO). Each of these antibiotics is capable of binding to hemin via axial coordination. Notably, when assembled with hemin to form antibiotic nanozymes, all constructs demonstrated a consistent capacity to reverse antimicrobial resistance.
Therefore, our study opens up new directions for overcoming resistant bacterial infections, curbing the development of resistance, and reversing resistance through multiple mechanisms.Additionally,these antibiotic nanozymes may be adaptable to various antibiotics, and selecting different adjuvants could broaden their applicability, offering greater versatility. The molecular self-assembly synthesis of antibiotic nanozymes allows for straightforward and scalable production,and holds great potential for future applications.