Using Synthetic Biology methods to construct a dual functional estrogen biosensor

Abstract

The presence of estrogenic compounds (endocrine‐disruptors, EDCs) in the water supply raises concerns about human and aquatic health. Current methods for detecting estrogen contamination require expensive, time‐consuming techniques such as liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry and high performance liquid chromatography. Previously reported estrogen biosensors required multiple cloning and transformation steps for successful detection in bacteria. As proof of concept we constructed a new dual function estrogen biosensor in bacterial cells. Synthetic Biology demonstrates the integral relationship between biology, chemistry, mathematics and computer science. The field provides innovative approaches to a wide range of applications, such as bioremediation, sustainable energy production and biomedical therapies. Synthetic biology allows for the construction of genetic devises composed of DNA sequences modified to be interchangeable and provide novel functions. New tools and devices are constantly needed to enhance the already extensive list of novel genetic parts. Our estrogen responsive plasmid contains parts that allow for both the constitutive expression of the estrogen receptor followed by an estrogen response element toggled to a reporter gene in a single vector. When the estrogen response element is activated a reporter gene will produce a color change in E. coli. We will construct novel promoter and chromophore reporter genes combinations to optimize estrogen responsiveness. We will present data demonstrating the efficiency of this dual‐functional biosensor and it effectiveness for detection of estrogenic compounds in contaminated water.Support or Funding InformationNSF‐REU‐1852150, REU Site: A multisite REU in Synthetic Biology, 2019