This proposal seeks to develop the experimental and theoretical methods to introduce multiple, heterologous, biodegradation pathways into a single organism and optimize the flux through those pathways for the remediation of toxic or recalcitrant organic contaminants. The project will focus the biodegradation of parathion as a model compound since: (1) it has been widely used as a pesticide; (2) it could potentially serve as a source for carbon, phosphorus, and sulfur for cell growth; (3) no single organism has been isolated that can use parathion as a sole carbon and phosphorus source; and (4) it is similar in structure to a number of other important environmental contaminants, such as nerve agents and other pesticides. An engineered form of Pseudomonas putida will be used as a model organism.
