The first section of the part collection (BBa_J435263, BBa_J433002, BBa_J433006,
BBa_J433005, BBa_J433045) is designed for the enhancement of Reg3g. The Reg3g
gene has been shown to reduce lymphocytic infiltration in intra-islet and peri-islet
regions, indicating reduced autoimmune activity. Considering the critical role of Beta
cells in insulin production for T1D patients, we have chosen to overexpress the Reg3-ʏ
gene. This overexpression can facilitate leptin secretion, potentially promoting
beta cell regeneration. The parts in the second section of the collection
(BBa_K4748002, BBa_K4748003) are designed for the overexpressing mutated RNLS
(dominant negative). RNLS is a gene expressed in the pancreas that plays a vital
role in protecting beta cells from death due to ER stress and inflammation, both
implicated in beta cell destruction in T1D. Mutant RNLS NIT-1 cells exhibit resistance
to death induced by ER stressors like thapsigargin (TG). By overexpressing mutated RNLS
(dominant negative), we can disrupt the cell line and halt the production of normal RNLS.
We have removed the catalytic domain in the RNLS amino oxidase variant, rendering the
protein non-functional. This modification aims to reduce the activity of autoreactive CD8+
T cells, potentially leading to fewer attacks on insulin-producing beta cells.