In News:

Researchers have recently developed a method to transform genetically engineered Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria into self-powered chemical sensors capable of detecting mercury and directly interfacing with electronic devices. This breakthrough represents a significant advancement in environmental monitoring and bioengineering.

About Escherichia coli:

• E. coli is a rod-shaped bacterium belonging to the Enterobacteriaceae family, commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals.
• Most strains are harmless or beneficial, aiding digestion, but certain strains can cause illnesses such as diarrhea, urinary tract infections, respiratory issues, and pneumonia.
• Pathogenic strains, particularly Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), produce toxins that damage the intestinal lining, leading to symptoms such as fever, persistent diarrhea, bloody stools, and vomiting.
• Transmission occurs through contaminated food, water, or contact with fecal matter from infected individuals or animals.
• Most infections are self-limiting, and treatment primarily focuses on hydration and symptomatic care.

E. coli as a Mercury Sensor:

By leveraging synthetic biology, scientists have reprogrammed E. coli to detect trace amounts of mercury, a highly toxic heavy metal. These bacteria generate an electrical signal when they encounter mercury, allowing direct interfacing with electronic devices to provide real-time monitoring of environmental contamination.

Significance and Applications:

• Provides a low-cost, eco-friendly alternative to conventional mercury detection methods, which often rely on expensive and sophisticated instruments.
• Potential use in monitoring water bodies, industrial effluents, and soil for mercury pollution.
• Demonstrates the broader potential of bioengineered microorganisms in environmental sensing, medical diagnostics, and bio-electronic devices.

This development highlights the convergence of microbiology, synthetic biology, and electronics, paving the way for innovative solutions in pollution monitoring and environmental safety.