AUTO-EVO · Autonomous DNA Evolution in a Molecule Trap

How can we create molecular life in the lab?That is, can we drive evolvable DNA/RNA-machines under a simple nonequilibrium setting? We will trigger basic formsof autonomous Darwinian evolution by implementing replication, mutation and selection on the molecular level in a singlemicro-chamber? We will explore protein-free replication schemes to tackle the Eigen-Paradox of replication and translationunder archaic nonequilibrium settings. The conditions mimic thermal gradients in porous rock near hydrothermal vents on theearly earth. We are in a unique position to pursue these questions due to our previous inventions of convective replication,optothermal molecule traps and light driven microfluidics. Four interconnected strategies are pursued ranging from basicreplication using tRNA-like hairpins, entropic cooling or UV degradation down to protein-based DNA evolution in a trap, allwith biotechnological applications. The approach is risky, however very interesting physics and biology on the way. We will:(i) Replicate DNA with continuous, convective PCR in the selection of a thermal molecule trap(ii) Replicate sequences with metastable, tRNA-like hairpins exponentially(iii) Build DNA complexes by structure-selective trapping to replicate by entropic decay(iv) Drive replication by Laser-based UV degradationBoth replication and trapping are exponential processes, yielding in combination a highly nonlinear dynamics. We proceedalong publishable steps and implement highly efficient modes of continuous molecular evolution. As shown in the past, wewill create biotechnological applications from basic scientific questions (see our NanoTemper Startup). The starting grant willallow us to compete with Jack Szostak who very recently picked up our approach [JACS 131, 9628 (2009)].