Development and Application of a Synthetically-Derived Lead Biosensor Construct for Use in Gram-Negative Bacteria.

ABSTRACT: The use of lead in manufacturing has decreased significantly over the last few decades. However, previous widespread use of lead-containing products and their incorrect disposal has resulted in environmental contamination. Accumulation of harmful quantities of lead pose a threat to all living organisms, through inhalation, ingestion, or direct contact, resulting in lead poisoning. This study utilized synthetic biology principles to develop plasmid-based whole-cell bacterial biosensors for detection of lead. The genetic element of the lead biosensor construct consists of pbrR, which encodes the regulatory protein, together with its divergent promoter region and a promoterless gfp. GFP expression is controlled by PbrR in response to the presence of lead. The lead biosensor genetic element wa

SUBMITTER: Bereza-Malcolm L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5191153 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature