# Tools4Cells: Development of self-amplifying RNA systems for bacterial protein synthesis

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · William Marsh Rice University (TX) · $986,944

## Abstract

An award is made to William Marsh Rice University to enable the development of a safe, programmable RNA-based system for transient protein production in bacteria. Harnessing the replicative machinery of single-stranded RNA bacteriophages and incorporating regulatory control elements, this project will produce self-replicating RNA (srRNA) scaffolds that function across a broad range of bacterial species. This platform enables precise, short-term protein production without the risks of horizontal gene transfer or permanent genomic integration. The technology has wide-ranging applications in environmental remediation, sustainable agriculture, and therapeutic delivery by enabling temporary, task-specific microbial functions with improved biosafety. Through partnerships with academic institutions, industry, and non-profit organizations, the project will contribute to global efforts in environmental sustainability, food security, and public health. The resulting srRNA toolkit will be openly shared with the scientific community to promote innovation, cross-sector collaboration, and responsible biotechnology development.

The intellectual merit of the research lies in its transformative approach to overcoming key limitations of existing RNA-based expression systems in bacteria. Current srRNA platforms are largely restricted to E. coli, limiting their broader utility. This project will engineer a diverse set of srRNA scaffolds derived from newly characterized RNA bacteriophages to e

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2446451
- **Awardee organization:** William Marsh Rice University (TX)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** K51LECU1G8N3
- **PI:** Pedro J Alvarez
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** —
- **Estimated total:** $986,944
- **Funds obligated:** $986,944
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2446451

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2446451, Tools4Cells: Development of self-amplifying RNA systems for bacterial protein synthesis. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-07 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2446451. Licensed CC0.

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