Journal of Microbial & Biochemical Technology

Abstract

Exploring the Potential of Genetically Engineered Whole-Cell Biosensors: A Step towards Device Development for Environmental Monitoring

Nasreen S Munshi*, Hinal Mehta, Aarushi Sachdeva and Jinal Bhavsar

Monitoring and detection of hazardous contaminants present in wastewater are mandatory for wastewater management at precise stages. Hence, the biosensor is one such detection device for real-time monitoring of contaminant levels in wastewater with user-friendly technology. A key innovation in the field of bio sensing occurred through genetically engineered whole- cell biosensors. Here, the cells are genetically engineered by introducing reporter genes and expressions of those genes are controlled by promoter sequences/regulatory proteins. They are modified in a way to achieve analyte specificity based on their sensing capabilities and coupling them to a transducer. Advancements in accessible biosensors are not only reliant on genetic engineering but also on the methods for their biocompatible immobilization and fabrication. To minimize the number of handling steps in the future for field application, it is feasible to immobilize cells by trapping them inside a polymer matrix, keeping them in the exceptional chambers of microfluidic devices, or simply allowing them to adhere to the paper. In this review, the emphasis is on the biosensing strains, immobilization techniques, multiple matrices on which cells can be immobilized, as well as the strategies for device development. Several biosensing strains have been described concerning their reporter genes targeting different contaminants present in wastewater. This review is intended to provide interesting information, especially on the strategy planned to immobilize biosensing strains while retaining their long-term viability and reproducibility for function. It is anticipated that it provides insights into a systematic and fundamental understanding of fabricating the efficient transduction system, as well as inspire for development of smart devices in nearby future for environmental monitoring.

Published Date: 2023-07-31; Received Date: 2023-06-30