dynacysts

Dynacysts are a conceptual class of dynamic, cyst-like compartments proposed in synthetic biology to modulate molecular exchange within cells. They are envisioned as membrane-bound vesicles that can change size and permeability in response to genetic circuits or external stimuli, enabling controlled sequestration or release of biomolecules.

They are typically imagined as lipid-bounded structures that either form within the cytoplasm or reorganize existing membranes. Their dynamics would be driven by osmotic forces, interactions with the cytoskeleton, and engineered molecular pumps, allowing regulated growth, shrinkage, fusion, and fission in response to programmable signals.

Potential applications include temporal control of metabolic pathways through compartmentalized enzymes and substrates, modeling organelle dynamics in artificial cells, and developing stimulus-responsive delivery systems for tissue models. Dynacysts could also serve as a platform for studying how dynamic compartmentalization affects signaling networks and cellular resilience.

Status and challenges: As of now, dynacysts remain a theoretical concept in mainstream biology. Related work explores engineered membranous compartments, protocells, and synthetic organelles, but achieving robust, programmable dynamics in living cells faces challenges in stability, compatibility with cellular processes, and safety.

See also: synthetic organelles, protocells, dynamic compartmentalization.