Abstract: A genetically engineered strain of Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) with a modified genome designed to enhance the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) is provided. The engineered genome includes the atoB gene from E. coli K-12, responsible for encoding acetyl-CoA acetyltransferase, a crt-bcd-etfA-etfB-BHBD gene cluster from E. C. butyricum that encodes enzymes involved in the synthesis of SCFAs, specifically enoyl-CoA hydratase, butyryl-CoA dehydrogenase, and electron transfer flavoproteins, and the ptb-buk gene from C. acetobutyricum, which encodes phosphotransbutyrylase and butyrate kinase. Additionally, key genes associated with competing metabolic pathways—ldhA, frdABCD, adhE, ackA, and pta—are deleted to optimize SCFA production, particularly butyrate. This strain is intended for use in therapeutic applications where enhanced SCFA production is beneficial, such as in the treatment of coronary heart disease.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to compositions and methods of cardiac repair. In certain embodiments, the disclosure relates to a composition comprised of peptide amphiphiles and cardiac and/or cardiac precursor cells, and administering such a composition to a subject for the treatment of a cardiac condition. In certain embodiments, the peptide amphiphiles comprise a cell adhesive sequence and a metalloprotease degradable sequence.

Abstract: This disclosure is in the area of research and therapeutics. In certain embodiments, it provides methods to assist in the purification of cell mixtures, e.g., cardiomyocytes, using molecular beacons targeting cell-type specific RNA, e.g. mRNA.

Abstract: This disclosure is in the area of research and therapeutics. In certain embodiments, it provides methods to assist in the purification of cell mixtures, e.g., cardiomyocytes, using molecular beacons targeting cell-type specific RNA, e.g. mRNA.

Abstract: This disclosure is in the area of research and therapeutics. In certain embodiments, it provides methods to assist in the purification of cell mixtures, e.g., cardiomyocytes, using molecular beacons targeting cell-type specific RNA, e.g. mRNA.

Abstract: This disclosure is in the area of research and therapeutics. In certain embodiments, it provides methods to assist in the purification of cell mixtures, e.g., cardiomyocytes, using molecular beacons targeting cell-type specific RNA, e.g. mRNA.