"Tailoring Synthetic Enhancers for Specific Cell Types"

Researchers have used deep learning models to design synthetic enhancers that are specific to certain cell types. By starting with random sequences and optimizing them, the researchers were able to create enhancers that target specific cells in the fruit fly brain. They also developed "dual-code" enhancers that can target two cell types simultaneously, as well as minimal enhancers that are fully functional. The study provides insights into the regulatory logic of enhancers and demonstrates the potential for manipulating cell states through enhancer design.