Difference between revisions of "Team:Bielefeld-CeBiTec/Overview"

Abstract

We developed versatile cell-free biosensors that can be used as paper-based test strips. These offer significant advantages over conventional biosensors regarding biosafety, sensitivity and output signal. We created two technical approaches built upon self-made E. coli cell extract for cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS) and our newly established, fluorescence based, Plasmid Repressor Interaction Assay (PRIA). Both can be immobilized on paper and lyophilized for long term storage. We developed an app that enables the detection of a fluorescence signal with your smartphone in combination with our specially designed black case. With these novel biosensor designs we show the universal applicability of our concept. To show this we tackle the problem of date rape drug intoxication, which is of increasing relevance in our area, by detecting a common ingredient. The second major problem we wanted to address is the contamination of water with heavy metals. Heavy metal sensors designed by previous iGEM teams as well as novel biosensors are combined to a modular, cell-free test strip for simultaneous detection. All in all, we are providing an extensible biosensor system on paper as a valuable tool for water quality analysis for everyone.