On-Chip Integration of Cell-Free Gene Expression

We present a synthetic approach for the study of gene networks \textit{in vitro} which is complementary to traditional \textit{in vivo} methodologies. We have developed a technology for submicron integration of functional genes and on-chip protein synthesis using a cell-free transcription/translation system. The interaction between genes is facilitated by diffusion of on-chip gene expression products from `source' genes towards `acceptor' genes. Our technology is simple and inexpensive and can serve as an improved platform for a wide variety of protein and DNA biochip applications.