Team:Auburn Alabama/Description
Project Inspiration and Description
Our Project
We will genetically engineer E. coli to detect nickel. In doing so, we will also characterize the promoter BBa_K540001. It has been used in a previous project as a cobalt-sensitive promoter, and its nickel detecting ability was noted. However, this aspect of the part has not been characterized. Therefore, we hope to contribute meaningful characterization data as we use this promoter to engineer nickel sensitive E. coli.
Our Inspiration
When we turned to previous iGEM projects for inspiration, the biosensor projects captured our fascination. Knowing the type of project we hoped to attempt, we narrowed down the possible problems we could tackle. After discussing various applications of our biosensor and researching parts in the iGEM registry, we decided to engineer E. coli to detect nickel. Nickel detection benefits those with nickel allergies and consumers of nickel-prone commercial products by alerting people to its presence. Additionally, our project allows us the opportunity to characterize the BBa_K540001 cobalt-sensitive promoter for nickel detection.
Nickel Allergy
Nickel allergy commonly causes allergic contact dermatitis, which results in an itchy rash on your skin. Jewelry is often the culprit, but nickel can be found in plenty of everyday items. Being so common, having a way to detect nickel is important for those with nickel allergy. In addition to the itching and rash, contact dermatitis can also cause redness, dry patches of skin, and, in severe cases, blisters.
References
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nickel-allergy/symptoms-causes/syc-20351529