Figure 1.

Three‐agent synthetic consortium mimics the antimicrobial response of innate immune cells. a) Neutrophils respond to the presence of pathogens by excreting a mesh formed by their genomic DNA, histones, and granules containing molecules with antimicrobial properties. The neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) immobilizes the pathogens and kills them due to the antimicrobial properties of the molecules associated. b) Three‐agent synthetic consortium designed to exhibit a netosis‐like response. Responsive DNA‐based particles detect model targets (E. coli) by sensing medium acidification induced by the glucose metabolism of the cells. “Activated” particles respond by forming a sticky DNA–cholesterol network that immobilizes the bacteria and, at the same time, permeabilizes antibiotic‐loaded giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs). Antibiotic release suppresses bacterial growth and division, fulfilling the antimicrobial role of the DNA‐binding proteins in the biological system.