This project of Professor Sylvia Daunert at the University of Kentucky, supported by the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program, begins with development of genetically engineered bacteria that are then used in optical sensing systems applied to problems in environmental analysis. The bacteria contain reporter genes that provide light emission of specific wavelength when exposed to the targeted analyte. An internal background correction system is developed that allows extension of the spectroscopic method to achieve low levels of detection. Arrangements of bacteria-based sensors are explored for multianalyte sensing in flow streams and in static solutions.
Bacterial genes are modified such that they give off light (luminesce) when exposed to trace levels of targeted compounds. For example, a water sample is analyzed by insertion of a sensor that contains the designed bacterial system. The easily measured light output provides a rapid indication of the concentration of analyte. Professor Sylvia Daunert at the University of Kentucky will study how to modify the bacteria so that they contain the luminescent genes, and how to incorporate them into sensors.
