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Huang Z, Gustave W, Bai S, Li Y, Li B, Elçin E, Jiang B, Jia Z, Zhang X, Shaheen SM, He F. Challenges and opportunities in commercializing whole-cell bioreporters in environmental application. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 262:119801. [PMID: 39147190 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.119801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2024] [Revised: 08/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Since the initial introduction of whole-cell bioreporters (WCBs) nearly 30 years ago, their high sensitivity, selectivity, and suitability for on-site detection have rendered them highly promising for environmental monitoring, medical diagnosis, food safety, biomanufacturing, and other fields. Especially in the environmental field, the technology provides a fast and efficient way to assess the bioavailability of pollutants in the environment. Despite these advantages, the technology has not been commercialized. This lack of commercialization is confusing, given the broad application prospects of WCBs. Over the years, numerous research papers have focused primarily on enhancing the sensitivity and selectivity of WCBs, with little attention paid to their wider commercial applications. So far, there is no a critical review has been published yet on this topic. Therefore, in this article we critically reviewed the research progress of WCBs over the past three decades, assessing the performance and limitations of current systems to understand the barriers to commercial deployment. By identifying these obstacles, this article provided researchers and industry stakeholders with deeper insights into the challenges hindering market entry and inspire further research toward overcoming these barriers, thereby facilitating the commercialization of WCBs as a promising technology for environmental monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zefeng Huang
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
| | - Williamson Gustave
- School of Chemistry, Environmental & Life Sciences, University of the Bahamas, Nassau, 4912, Bahamas
| | - Shanshan Bai
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
| | - Yongshuo Li
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
| | - Boling Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, China; Meadows Center for Water and the Environment, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX, 78666, USA
| | - Evrim Elçin
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Division of Enzyme and Microbial Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Aydın, 09970, Turkey
| | - Bo Jiang
- School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Zhemin Jia
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
| | - Xiaokai Zhang
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China.
| | - Sabry M Shaheen
- University of Wuppertal, School of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Institute of Foundation Engineering, Water- and Waste-Management, Laboratory of Soil- and Groundwater-Management, Pauluskirchstraße 7, 42285 Wuppertal, Germany; King Abdulaziz University, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Department of Agriculture, 21589 Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; University of Kafrelsheikh, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Soil and Water Sciences, 33516, Kafr El-Sheikh, Egypt
| | - Feng He
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
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Zhu X, Xiang Q, Chen L, Chen J, Wang L, Jiang N, Hao X, Zhang H, Wang X, Li Y, Omer R, Zhang L, Wang Y, Zhuang Y, Huang J. Engineered Bacillus subtilis Biofilm@Biochar living materials for in-situ sensing and bioremediation of heavy metal ions pollution. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133119. [PMID: 38134689 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
The simultaneous sensing and remediation of multiple heavy metal ions in wastewater or soil with microorganisms is currently a significant challenge. In this study, the microorganism Bacillus subtilis was used as a chassis organism to construct two genetic circuits for sensing and adsorbing heavy-metal ions. The engineered biosensor can sense three heavy metal ions (0.1-75 μM of Pb2+ and Cu2+, 0.01-3.5 μM of Hg2+) in situ real-time with high sensitivity. The engineered B. subtilis TasA-metallothionein (TasA-MT) biofilm can specifically adsorb metal ions from the environment, exhibiting remarkable removal efficiencies of 99.5% for Pb2+, 99.9% for Hg2+and 99.5% for Cu2+ in water. Furthermore, this engineered strain (as a biosensor and absorber of Pb2+, Cu2+, and Hg2+) was incubated with biochar to form a hybrid biofilm@biochar (BBC) material that could be applied in the bioremediation of heavy metal ions. The results showed that BBC material not only significantly reduced exchangeable Pb2+ in the soil but also reduced Pb2+ accumulation in maize plants. In addition, it enhanced maize growth and biomass. In conclusion, this study examined the potential applications of biosensors and hybrid living materials constructed using sensing and adsorption circuits in B. subtilis, providing rapid and cost-effective tools for sensing and remediating multiple heavy metal ions (Pb2+, Hg2+, and Cu2+).
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojuan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China; Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomanufacturing (SCICB), East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China
| | - Qinyuan Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China; Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomanufacturing (SCICB), East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China
| | - Lin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China; Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomanufacturing (SCICB), East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China
| | - Jianshu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China; Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomanufacturing (SCICB), East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China
| | - Lei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China; Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomanufacturing (SCICB), East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China
| | - Ning Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China; Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomanufacturing (SCICB), East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China
| | - Xiangrui Hao
- Shanghai Nong Le Biological Products Company Limited (NLBP), Shanghai 201419, PR China
| | - Hongyan Zhang
- Shanghai Nong Le Biological Products Company Limited (NLBP), Shanghai 201419, PR China
| | - Xinhua Wang
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai 200240, PR China
| | - Yaqian Li
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai 200240, PR China
| | - Rabia Omer
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China; Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomanufacturing (SCICB), East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China
| | - Lingfan Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China
| | - Yonghong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China
| | - Yingping Zhuang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China; Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomanufacturing (SCICB), East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China
| | - Jiaofang Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China; College of Life Science, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang 330022, PR China.
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Wen Z, Zheng D, Wu J, Tian H, Yang Q, Chen L, Ji Z, Chen Y, Li Z. Integral trends in research of lead exposure and child health from 2012 to 2022: a bibliometric analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:9251-9271. [PMID: 38191730 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31744-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Lead poisoning in children is a non-negligible and ongoing threat to children's health and optimal development worldwide. There is no sufficient scientometric analysis available on this subject, though. Aiming to uncover the research development, hotspots, and possible future orientation, we performed a scientometric analysis of related publications from 2012 to 2022. Initial information was accessed using the "Analysis Results" and "Create Citation Report" sections of the Web of Science core collection database, which were utilized to find original publications in this field of research. Biblioshiny and VOSviewer software were applied to further analyze and visualize the data. The research addressed a range of topics, including yearly publications, highly cited articles, co-cited references, journals, authors, nations, organizations, and keywords. A total of 883 articles were retrieved. From 2018 to 2021, the annual publication output was abundant and peaked in 2019. Among 111 countries, the USA obtained the highest number of documents issued, total citations, and total link strength. Meanwhile, most of the top 15 institutions, including the top four, are located in the USA. Further, we spotted greater scopes with development potential, including enhancing records to lessen exposure to harmful risks, improving methods for observing lead sources, and elucidating the gradient link between lead poisoning symptoms and concentrations. We anticipate that our research will assist researchers in summarizing previous research and providing perspectives for workable prospective study topics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuolin Wen
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, No. 69 North Dongxia Road, Shantou, Guangdong, 515041, People's Republic of China
| | - Daitian Zheng
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, No. 69 North Dongxia Road, Shantou, Guangdong, 515041, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinyao Wu
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, No. 69 North Dongxia Road, Shantou, Guangdong, 515041, People's Republic of China
| | - Huiting Tian
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, No. 69 North Dongxia Road, Shantou, Guangdong, 515041, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiuping Yang
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, No. 69 North Dongxia Road, Shantou, Guangdong, 515041, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingzhi Chen
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, No. 69 North Dongxia Road, Shantou, Guangdong, 515041, People's Republic of China
| | - Zeqi Ji
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, No. 69 North Dongxia Road, Shantou, Guangdong, 515041, People's Republic of China
| | - Yexi Chen
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, No. 69 North Dongxia Road, Shantou, Guangdong, 515041, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiyang Li
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, No. 69 North Dongxia Road, Shantou, Guangdong, 515041, People's Republic of China.
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Wang GH, Tang CH, Cheng CY, Chung YC. Improving the practicality of recombinant Escherichia coli biosensor in detecting trace Cr(VI) by modifying the cryogenic storage conditions of biosensors and applying simple pretreatment. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH. PART A, TOXIC/HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING 2024; 58:1028-1038. [PMID: 38189371 DOI: 10.1080/10934529.2024.2301905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) is a global environmental pollutant. To reduce the risk caused by Cr(VI), a simple, accurate, reproducible, and inexpensive method for quantifying Cr(VI) in water and soil should be developed. In this study, three types of recombinant Escherichia coli biosensors (namely T7-lux-E. coli, T3-lux-E. coli, and SP6-lux-E. coli biosensor) containing promoters (T7, T3, and SP6), chromate-sensing regulator chrB, and the reporter gene luxAB were constructed. This study investigated the effects of cryogenic freezing temperature and time on trace Cr(VI) measurement by using recombinant E. coli biosensors. The results indicated that the activity of thawed frozen SP6-lux-E. coli cells stored at -20 °C for 270 days did not differ from that of freshly prepared cells. Turbidity and conductivity in water samples and organic matter in soil interfered with Cr(VI) measurement using the biosensor. The SP6-lux-E. coli biosensor exhibited a wide measurement range and a low deviation of <5% for measuring Cr(VI) in various Cr(VI)-contaminated water and soil samples and required only a simple pretreatment or extraction process even after 270-day storage at -20 °C. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report the use of recombinant biosensors for accurately measuring Cr(VI) in both water and soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guey-Horng Wang
- Research Center of Natural Cosmeceuticals Engineering, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, China
| | - Chi-Hsiang Tang
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, China University of Science and Technology, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chiu-Yu Cheng
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, China University of Science and Technology, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Chien Chung
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, China University of Science and Technology, Taipei, Taiwan
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Huang CW, Lin C, Nguyen MK, Hussain A, Bui XT, Ngo HH. A review of biosensor for environmental monitoring: principle, application, and corresponding achievement of sustainable development goals. Bioengineered 2023; 14:58-80. [PMID: 37377408 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2022.2095089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Human health/socioeconomic development is closely correlated to environmental pollution, highlighting the need to monitor contaminants in the real environment with reliable devices such as biosensors. Recently, variety of biosensors gained high attention and employed as in-situ application, in real-time, and cost-effective analytical tools for healthy environment. For continuous environmental monitoring, it is necessary for portable, cost-effective, quick, and flexible biosensing devices. These benefits of the biosensor strategy are related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the United Nations (UN), especially with reference to clean water and sources of energy. However, the relationship between SDGs and biosensor application for environmental monitoring is not well understood. In addition, some limitations and challenges might hinder the biosensor application on environmental monitoring. Herein, we reviewed the different types of biosensors, principle and applications, and their correlation with SDG 6, 12, 13, 14, and 15 as a reference for related authorities and administrators to consider. In this review, biosensors for different pollutants such as heavy metals and organics were documented. The present study highlights the application of biosensor for achieving SDGs. Current advantages and future research aspects are summarized in this paper.Abbreviations: ATP: Adenosine triphosphate; BOD: Biological oxygen demand; COD: Chemical oxygen demand; Cu-TCPP: Cu-porphyrin; DNA: Deoxyribonucleic acid; EDCs: Endocrine disrupting chemicals; EPA: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; Fc-HPNs: Ferrocene (Fc)-based hollow polymeric nanospheres; Fe3O4@3D-GO: Fe3O4@three-dimensional graphene oxide; GC: Gas chromatography; GCE: Glassy carbon electrode; GFP: Green fluorescent protein; GHGs: Greenhouse gases; HPLC: High performance liquid chromatography; ICP-MS: Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry; ITO: Indium tin oxide; LAS: Linear alkylbenzene sulfonate; LIG: Laser-induced graphene; LOD: Limit of detection; ME: Magnetoelastic; MFC: Microbial fuel cell; MIP: Molecular imprinting polymers; MWCNT: Multi-walled carbon nanotube; MXC: Microbial electrochemical cell-based; NA: Nucleic acid; OBP: Odorant binding protein; OPs: Organophosphorus; PAHs: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons; PBBs: Polybrominated biphenyls; PBDEs: Polybrominated diphenyl ethers; PCBs: Polychlorinated biphenyls; PGE: Polycrystalline gold electrode; photoMFC: photosynthetic MFC; POPs: Persistent organic pollutants; rGO: Reduced graphene oxide; RNA: Ribonucleic acid; SDGs: Sustainable Development Goals; SERS: Surface enhancement Raman spectrum; SPGE: Screen-printed gold electrode; SPR: Surface plasmon resonance; SWCNTs: single-walled carbon nanotubes; TCPP: Tetrakis (4-carboxyphenyl) porphyrin; TIRF: Total internal reflection fluorescence; TIRF: Total internal reflection fluorescence; TOL: Toluene-catabolic; TPHs: Total petroleum hydrocarbons; UN: United Nations; VOCs: Volatile organic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Wei Huang
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chitsan Lin
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Ph.D. Program in Maritime Science and Technology, College of Maritime, National Kaohsiung University of Science and TechnologyPh.D. Program in Maritime Science and Technology, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Minh Ky Nguyen
- Ph.D. Program in Maritime Science and Technology, College of Maritime, National Kaohsiung University of Science and TechnologyPh.D. Program in Maritime Science and Technology, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Adnan Hussain
- Ph. D. Program of Aquatic Science and Technology, College of Hydrosphere Science, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Xuan-Thanh Bui
- Department Water Science & Technology, Key Laboratory of Advanced Waste Treatment Technology, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh (VNU-HCM), Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Department Water Science & Technology, Faculty of Environment & Natural Resources, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Huu Hao Ngo
- Department Water Science & Technology, Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney NSW, Australia
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Zhu K, Chen D, Cai Y, Zhang T, Ma J, Bao L, Zhao F, Wu L, Chen S. Engineering the Ultrasensitive Visual Whole-Cell Biosensors by Evolved MerR and 5' UTR for Detection of Ultratrace Mercury. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:16964-16973. [PMID: 37863904 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c04915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
The existing mercury whole-cell biosensors (WCBs, parts per billion range) are not able to meet the real-world requirements due to their lack of sensitivity for the detection of ultratrace mercury in the environment. Ultratrace mercury is a potential threat to human health via the food chain. Here, we developed an ultrasensitive mercury WCB by directed evolution of the mercury-responsive transcriptional activator (MerR) sensing module to detect ultratrace mercury. Subsequently, the mutant WCB (m4-1) responding to mercury in the parts per trillion range after 1 h of induction was obtained. Its detection limit (LOD) was 0.313 ng/L, comparable to those of some analytical instruments. Surprisingly, the m4-1 WCB also responded to methylmercury (LOD = 98 ng/L), which is far more toxic than inorganic mercury. For more convenient detection, we have increased another green fluorescent protein reporter module with an optimized 5' untranslated region (5' UTR) sequence. This yields two visual WCBs with an enhanced fluorescence output. At a concentration of 2.5 ng/L, the fluorescence signals can be directly observed by the naked eye. With the combination of mobile phone imaging and image processing software, the 2GC WCB provided simple, rapid, and reliable quantitative and qualitative analysis of real samples (LOD = 0.307 ng/L). Taken together, these results indicate that the ultrasensitive visual whole-cell biosensors for ultratrace mercury detection are successfully designed using a combination of directed evolution and synthetic biotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaili Zhu
- Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, P. R. China
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China, P. R. China
| | - Dongdong Chen
- Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, P. R. China
| | - Yeshen Cai
- Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, P. R. China
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China, P. R. China
| | - TianYi Zhang
- School of Public Health, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241002, P. R. China
| | - Jie Ma
- School of Public Health, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241002, P. R. China
| | - Lingzhi Bao
- School of Public Health, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241002, P. R. China
| | - Feng Zhao
- East China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Shanghai 200090, P. R. China
| | - Lijun Wu
- Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, P. R. China
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China, P. R. China
| | - Shaopeng Chen
- School of Public Health, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241002, P. R. China
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Sun H, Chen J, Xiong D, Long M. Detoxification of Selenium Yeast on Mycotoxins and Heavy Metals: a Review. Biol Trace Elem Res 2023; 201:5441-5454. [PMID: 36662349 PMCID: PMC9854417 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-023-03576-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by specific fungi. More than 400 different mycotoxins are known in the world, and the concentration of these toxins in food and feed often exceeds the acceptable limit, thus causing serious harm to animals and human body. At the same time, modern industrial agriculture will also bring a lot of environmental pollution in the development process, including the increase of heavy metal content, and often the clinical symptoms of low/medium level chronic heavy metal poisoning are not obvious, thus delaying the best treatment opportunity. However, the traditional ways of detoxification cannot completely eliminate the adverse effects of these toxins on the body, and sometimes bring some side effects, so it is essential to find a new type of safe antidote. Trace element selenium is among the essential mineral nutrient elements of human and animal bodies, which can effectively remove excessive free radicals and reactive oxygen species in the body, and has the effects of antioxidant, resisting stress, and improving body immunity. Selenium is common in nature in inorganic selenium and organic selenium. In previous studies, it was found that the use of inorganic selenium (sodium selenite) can play a certain protective role against mycotoxins and heavy metal poisoning. However, while it plays the role of antioxidant, it will also have adverse effects on the body. Therefore, it was found in the latest study that selenium yeast could not only replace the protective effect of sodium selenite on mycotoxins and heavy metal poisoning, but also improve the immunity of the body. Selenium yeast is an organic selenium source with high activity and low toxicity, which is produced by selenium relying on the cell protein structure of growing yeast. It not only has high absorption rate, but also can be stored in the body after meeting the physiological needs of the body for selenium, so as to avoid selenium deficiency again in the short term. However, few of these studies can clearly reveal the protective mechanism of yeast selenium. In this paper, the detoxification mechanism of selenium yeast on mycotoxins and heavy metal poisoning was reviewed, which provided some theoretical support for further understanding of the biological function of selenium yeast and its replacement for inorganic selenium. The conclusions suggest that selenium yeast can effectively alleviate the oxidative damage by regulating different signaling pathways, improving the activity of antioxidant enzymes, reversing the content of inflammatory factors, regulating the protein expression of apoptosis-related genes, and reducing the accumulation of mycotoxins and heavy metals in the body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiying Sun
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Liaoning Province, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866 People’s Republic of China
| | - Jia Chen
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Liaoning Province, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866 People’s Republic of China
| | - Dongwei Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Liaoning Province, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866 People’s Republic of China
| | - Miao Long
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Liaoning Province, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866 People’s Republic of China
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Zhu DL, Guo Y, Ma BC, Lin YQ, Wang HJ, Gao CX, Liu MQ, Zhang NX, Luo H, Hui CY. Pb(II)-inducible proviolacein biosynthesis enables a dual-color biosensor toward environmental lead. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1218933. [PMID: 37577420 PMCID: PMC10413148 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1218933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
With the rapid development of synthetic biology, various whole-cell biosensors have been designed as valuable biological devices for the selective and sensitive detection of toxic heavy metals in environmental water. However, most proposed biosensors are based on fluorescent and bioluminescent signals invisible to the naked eye. The development of visible pigment-based biosensors can address this issue. The pbr operon from Klebsiella pneumoniae is selectively induced by bioavailable Pb(II). In the present study, the proviolacein biosynthetic gene cluster was transcriptionally fused to the pbr Pb(II) responsive element and introduced into Escherichia coli. The resultant biosensor responded to Pb(II) in a time- and dose-dependent manner. After a 5-h incubation with Pb(II), the brown pigment was produced, which could be extracted into n-butanol. Extra hydrogen peroxide treatment during n-butanol extract resulted in the generation of a stable green pigment. An increased brown signal was observed upon exposure to lead concentrations above 2.93 nM, and a linear regression was fitted from 2.93 to 3,000 nM. Extra oxidation significantly decreased the difference between parallel groups. The green signal responded to as low as 0.183 nM Pb(II), and a non-linear regression was fitted in a wide concentration range from 0.183 to 3,000 nM. The specific response toward Pb(II) was not interfered with by various metals except for Cd(II) and Hg(II). The PV-based biosensor was validated in monitoring bioaccessible Pb(II) spiked into environmental water. The complex matrices did not influence the regression relationship between spiked Pb(II) and the dual-color signals. Direct reading with the naked eye and colorimetric quantification enable the PV-based biosensor to be a dual-color and low-cost bioindicator for pollutant heavy metal.
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Affiliation(s)
- De-long Zhu
- School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Yan Guo
- Shenzhen Prevention and Treatment Center for Occupational Diseases, Shenzhen, China
| | - Bing-chan Ma
- School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yong-qin Lin
- Shenzhen Prevention and Treatment Center for Occupational Diseases, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hai-jun Wang
- Shenzhen Prevention and Treatment Center for Occupational Diseases, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chao-xian Gao
- Shenzhen Prevention and Treatment Center for Occupational Diseases, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ming-qi Liu
- School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Nai-xing Zhang
- Shenzhen Prevention and Treatment Center for Occupational Diseases, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hao Luo
- School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Chang-ye Hui
- School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
- Shenzhen Prevention and Treatment Center for Occupational Diseases, Shenzhen, China
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Sauge-Merle S, Recuerda M, Beccia MR, Lemaire D, Cherif R, Bremond N, Merola F, Bousmah Y, Berthomieu C. Development of an Efficient FRET-Based Ratiometric Uranium Biosensor. BIOSENSORS 2023; 13:bios13050561. [PMID: 37232922 DOI: 10.3390/bios13050561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The dispersion of uranium in the environment can pose a problem for the health of humans and other living organisms. It is therefore important to monitor the bioavailable and hence toxic fraction of uranium in the environment, but no efficient measurement methods exist for this. Our study aims to fill this gap by developing a genetically encoded FRET-based ratiometric uranium biosensor. This biosensor was constructed by grafting two fluorescent proteins to both ends of calmodulin, a protein that binds four calcium ions. By modifying the metal-binding sites and the fluorescent proteins, several versions of the biosensor were generated and characterized in vitro. The best combination results in a biosensor that is affine and selective for uranium compared to metals such as calcium or other environmental compounds (sodium, magnesium, chlorine). It has a good dynamic range and should be robust to environmental conditions. In addition, its detection limit is below the uranium limit concentration in drinking water defined by the World Health Organization. This genetically encoded biosensor is a promising tool to develop a uranium whole-cell biosensor. This would make it possible to monitor the bioavailable fraction of uranium in the environment, even in calcium-rich waters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandrine Sauge-Merle
- Aix Marseille Université, CEA, CNRS, BIAM, UMR7265, IPM, 13108 Saint Paul-Lez-Durance, France
| | - Morgane Recuerda
- Aix Marseille Université, CEA, CNRS, BIAM, UMR7265, IPM, 13108 Saint Paul-Lez-Durance, France
| | - Maria Rosa Beccia
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Institut de Chimie de Nice, UMR 7272, 06108 Nice, France
| | - David Lemaire
- Aix Marseille Université, CEA, CNRS, BIAM, UMR7265, IPM, 13108 Saint Paul-Lez-Durance, France
| | - Rym Cherif
- Aix Marseille Université, CEA, CNRS, BIAM, UMR7265, IPM, 13108 Saint Paul-Lez-Durance, France
| | - Nicolas Bremond
- Aix Marseille Université, CEA, CNRS, BIAM, UMR7265, IPM, 13108 Saint Paul-Lez-Durance, France
| | - Fabienne Merola
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, Institut de Chimie Physique, 91405 Orsay, France
| | - Yasmina Bousmah
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, Institut de Chimie Physique, 91405 Orsay, France
| | - Catherine Berthomieu
- Aix Marseille Université, CEA, CNRS, BIAM, UMR7265, IPM, 13108 Saint Paul-Lez-Durance, France
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10
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Tang Y, Hardy TJ, Yoon JY. Receptor-based detection of microplastics and nanoplastics: Current and future. Biosens Bioelectron 2023; 234:115361. [PMID: 37148803 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is an emerging environmental concern, gaining significant attention worldwide. They are classified into microplastics (MP; defined from 1 μm to 5 mm) and smaller nanoplastics (NP; <1 μm). NPs may pose higher ecological risks than MPs. Various microscopic and spectroscopic techniques have been used to detect MPs, and the same methods have occasionally been used for NPs. However, they are not based on receptors, which provide high specificity in most biosensing applications. Receptor-based micro/nanoplastics (MNP) detection can provide high specificity, distinguishing MNPs from the environmental samples and, more importantly, identifying the plastic types. It can also offer a low limit of detection (LOD) required for environmental screening. Such receptors are expected to detect NPs specifically at the molecular level. This review categorizes the receptors into cells, proteins, peptides, fluorescent dyes, polymers, and micro/nanostructures. Detection techniques used with these receptors are also summarized and categorized. There is plenty of room for future research to test for broader classes of environmental samples and many plastic types, to lower the LOD, and to apply the current techniques for NPs. Portable and handheld MNP detection should also be demonstrated for field use since the current demonstrations primarily utilized laboratory instruments. Detection on microfluidic platforms will also be crucial in miniaturizing and automating the assay and, eventually, collecting an extensive database to support machine learning-based classification of MNP types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yisha Tang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, United States
| | - Trinity J Hardy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, United States
| | - Jeong-Yeol Yoon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, United States.
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11
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Chen Y, Guo Y, Liu Y, Xiang Y, Liu G, Zhang Q, Yin Y, Cai Y, Jiang G. Advances in bacterial whole-cell biosensors for the detection of bioavailable mercury: A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 868:161709. [PMID: 36682565 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.161709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) and its organic compounds, especially monomethylmercury (MeHg), cause major damage to the ecosystem and human health. In surface water or sediments, microorganisms play a crucial role in the methylation and demethylation of Hg. Given that Hg transformation processes are intracellular reactions, accurate assessment of the bioavailability of Hg(II)/MeHg in the environment, particularly for microorganisms, is of major importance. Compared with traditional analytical methods, bacterial whole-cell biosensors (BWCBs) provide a more accurate, convenient, and cost-effective strategy to assess the environmental risks of Hg(II)/MeHg. This Review summarizes recent progress in the application of BWCBs in the detection of bioavailable Hg(II)/MeHg, providing insight on current challenges and strategies. The principle and components of BWCBs for Hg(II)/MeHg bioavailability analysis are introduced. Furthermore, the impact of water chemical factors on the bioavailability of Hg is discussed as are future perspectives of BWCBs in bioavailable Hg analysis and optimization of BWCBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueqian Chen
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Yingying Guo
- Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology and Health, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Yanwei Liu
- Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology and Health, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Yuping Xiang
- Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology and Health, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China.
| | - Guangliang Liu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, United States of America
| | - Qinghua Zhang
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Yongguang Yin
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China; Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology and Health, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Yong Cai
- Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology and Health, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, United States of America
| | - Guibin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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12
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Singh A, Kumar V, Singh S, Ray M. Electrochemical detection of copper(II) in environmental samples using Penicillium sp. IITISM_ANK1 based biosensor. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 313:137294. [PMID: 36427580 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.137294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Detection of toxic metals at the lowest of their concentration in a variety of matrices has become a necessity due to the widespread and persistent nature of the contaminant. In this context, biosensors provide a viable alternative to the large sophisticated instrumentation. This study focuses on the development of a cost-effective fungal biomass-based biosensor that can be used for the detection of Cu(II). The fungal cells were pretreated with formaldehyde and studied with various spectroscopic studies. It was observed that the carbonyl groups along with amine groups played role in the sorption of copper ions which were stripped in an electrolytic solution to quantify the metal. Herein the dried fungal biomass was chemically activated and used to prepare a novel graphite paste electrode by repurposing a plastic pipette tip. The factors affecting the detection signal were optimized in further study. The electrochemical characterization revealed that the prepared bio-electrode was capable of detecting Cu in the range of 1 × 10-7 M to 2 × 10-5 M.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankur Singh
- Laboratory of Applied Microbiology, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad, Jharkhand, 826 004, India
| | - Vipin Kumar
- Laboratory of Applied Microbiology, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad, Jharkhand, 826 004, India.
| | - Shalini Singh
- Laboratory of Applied Microbiology, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad, Jharkhand, 826 004, India
| | - Madhurya Ray
- Laboratory of Applied Microbiology, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad, Jharkhand, 826 004, India
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13
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Liaquat H, Imran M, Latif S, Hussain N, Bilal M. Multifunctional nanomaterials and nanocomposites for sensing and monitoring of environmentally hazardous heavy metal contaminants. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 214:113795. [PMID: 35803339 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.113795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The applications of conventional sensors are limited by the long response time, high cost, large detection limit, low sensitivity, complicated usage and low selectivity. These sensors are nowadays replaced by Nanocomposite-based modalities and nanomaterials which are known for their high selectivity and physical and chemical properties. These nanosensors effectively detect heavy metal contaminants in the environment as the discharge of heavy metals into natural water as a result of human activity has become a global epidemic. Exposure to these toxic metals might induce many health-related complications, including kidney failure, brain injury, immune disorders, muscle paleness, cardiac damage, nervous system impairment and limb paralysis. Therefore, designing and developing novel sensing systems for the detection and recognition of these harmful metals in various environmental matrices, particularly water, is of extremely important. Emerging nanotechnological approaches in the past two decades have played a key role in overcoming environmentally-related problems. Nanomaterial-based fabrication of chemical nanosensors has widely been applied as a powerful analytical tool for sensing heavy metals. Portability, high sensitivity, on-site detection capability, better device performance and selectivity are all advantages of these nanosensors. The detection and selectivity have been improved using molecular recognition probes for selective binding on different nanostructures. This study aims to evaluate the sensing properties of various nanomaterials such as metal-organic frameworks, fluorescent materials, metal-based nanoparticles, carbon-based nanomaterials and quantum dots and graphene-based nanomaterials and quantum dots for heavy metal ions recognition. All these nano-architectures are frequently served as effective fluorescence probes to directly (or by modification with some large or small biomolecules) sense heavy metal ions for improved selectivity. However, efforts are still needed for the simultaneous designing of multiple metal ion-based detection systems, exclusively in colorimetric or optical fluorescence nanosensors for heavy metal cations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hina Liaquat
- Centre for Inorganic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, University of the Punjab, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Imran
- Centre for Inorganic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, University of the Punjab, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | - Shoomaila Latif
- School of Physical Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | - Nazim Hussain
- Center for Applied Molecular Biology (CAMB), University of the Punjab, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Bilal
- School of Life Science and Food Engineering, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Huaian, 223003, China.
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14
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Lv S, Xu X, Song S, Xu L, Liu L, Xu C, Kuang H. An Immunochromatographic Assay for the Rapid and Qualitative Detection of Mercury in Rice. BIOSENSORS 2022; 12:bios12090694. [PMID: 36140079 PMCID: PMC9496535 DOI: 10.3390/bios12090694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Mercury is a major pollutant in food crops. In this study, we synthesized an anti-mercury monoclonal antibody (mAb; IC50 was 0.606 ng mL−1) with high sensitivity and specificity and different immunogens and coating antigens and developed an immuno-chromatographic assay (ICA) for the detection of mercury in rice. The ICA strip had a visible detection limit of 20 ng g−1 and a cut-off value of 500 ng g−1 in rice. The performance of the ICA strip was consistent with that of ICP-MS and ic-ELISA. The recoveries of mercury in rice ranged from 94.5% to 113.7% with ic-ELISA and from 93.6% to 116.45% with ICP-MS. Qualitative analysis by ICA can be obtained with the naked eye. The ICA strip is an effective and practical method for the rapid and high-throughput determination of mercury in rice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Lv
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Biointerface and Biodetection, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xinxin Xu
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Biointerface and Biodetection, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Shanshan Song
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Biointerface and Biodetection, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Liguang Xu
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Biointerface and Biodetection, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Liqiang Liu
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Biointerface and Biodetection, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Chuanlai Xu
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Biointerface and Biodetection, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Hua Kuang
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Biointerface and Biodetection, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +86-510-85329077
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15
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Jeon Y, Lee Y, Jang G, Kim BG, Yoon Y. Design of Pb(II)-Specific E. coli-Based Biosensors by Engineering Regulatory Proteins and Host Cells. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:881050. [PMID: 35668759 PMCID: PMC9164158 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.881050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial cell-based biosensors have been widely developed for detecting environmental toxic materials. The znt-operon in Escherichia coli is a Zn(II)-responsive genetic system and is employed in Zn(II), Cd(II), and Hg(II)-sensing biosensors. In this study, point mutations were introduced in the regulatory protein ZntR to modulate its target selectivity, and metal ion-exporting genes, such as copA and zntA, in host cells were deleted to increase cellular metal ion levels and enhance specificity. Thus, the overall responses of the E. coli cell-based biosensors toward metal(loid) ions were increased, and their selectivity, which was originally for Cd(II) and Hg(II), was shifted to Pb(II). The gene encoding ZntA, known as the Zn(II)-translocating P-type ATPase, showed an impact on the ability of E. coli to export Pb(II), whereas copA deletion showed no significant impact. Noteworthily, the newly generated biosensors employing ZntR Cys115Ile showed the capacity to detect under 5 nM Pb(II) in solution, without response to other tested metal ions within 0–100 nM. To understand the marked effect of single point mutations on ZntR, computational modeling was employed. Although it did not provide clear answers, changes in the sequences of the metal-binding loops of ZntR modulated its transcriptional strength and target selectivity. In summary, the approaches proposed in this study can be valuable to generate new target-sensing biosensors with superior selectivity and specificity, which can in turn broaden the applicability of cell-based biosensors to monitor Pb(II) in environmental systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangwon Jeon
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yejin Lee
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Geupil Jang
- School of Biological Sciences and Technology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Bong-Gyu Kim
- Division of Environmental and Forest Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, South Korea
| | - Youngdae Yoon
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Youngdae Yoon
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