Engineering small molecule-inducible synthetic signaling receptors

Cells rely on complex signaling receptors to interpret environmental cues and make critical decisions about growth, survival, and differentiation. In my lab, we are engineering synthetic, small molecule-inducible signaling receptors that allow precise, programmable control over these cellular decisions. Using iterative protein design and genome editing, we integrate optimized synthetic receptors into their natural genomic locations, enabling cells to activate essential developmental pathways in response to inexpensive, externally supplied molecules rather than costly biologic growth factors. This strategy demonstrates how engineered signaling systems can replace natural cytokine dependence while preserving normal cellular function. As one example, we applied this approach to control red blood cell development, establishing a path toward more scalable and affordable manufacturing of transfusion-ready blood products.