A research team comprising of biologists and bioengineers at UC San Diego has been able to create a living neon sign using bacterial cells that periodically fluoresce together, just like blinking light bulbs.
The living neon displays are created using millions of living fluorescent Escherichia coli, a rod-shaped bacterium that lives in our intestines. Watch the video after the jump for a demonstration.
The Science Behind Living Neon Signs
The team’s largest bio-chips contain 50 to 60 million fluorescent E. coli cells, providing around 13,000 biopixels, while the smallest ones have about 2.5 million, around 500 pixels. Jeff Hasty, professor of biology and bioengineering at UC San Diego, and who headed the research team, explains:
“These kinds of living sensors are intriguing as they can serve to continuously monitor a given sample over long periods of time, whereas most detection kits are used for a one-time measurement,” – “Because the bacteria respond in different ways to different concentrations by varying the frequency of their blinking pattern, they can provide a continual update on how dangerous a toxin or pathogen is at any one time.”
This innovative approach leverages the natural properties of E. coli bacteria, which can be genetically modified to produce fluorescent proteins. By engineering these bacteria to blink in unison, the researchers have created a dynamic display that can be used for various applications, including environmental monitoring and medical diagnostics.
Potential Applications and Future Research
The potential applications of this technology are vast. For instance, these living neon signs could be used in environmental monitoring to detect pollutants or toxins in water sources. The continuous blinking pattern of the bacteria can provide real-time updates on the concentration of harmful substances, making it easier to take timely action to mitigate environmental damage.
In the medical field, these living sensors could revolutionize diagnostics. Traditional diagnostic kits often provide a one-time measurement, which may not be sufficient for monitoring chronic conditions or infections that require continuous observation. The living neon signs, on the other hand, can offer ongoing monitoring, providing healthcare professionals with valuable data to make informed decisions.
Moreover, the technology could be adapted for use in industrial settings. For example, bio-chips with fluorescent bacteria could be integrated into manufacturing processes to monitor the presence of contaminants or to ensure that conditions remain optimal for production.
The research team at UC San Diego is also exploring ways to enhance the sensitivity and specificity of these living sensors. By fine-tuning the genetic modifications, they aim to create bacteria that can respond to a wider range of stimuli, including different types of pathogens and chemical compounds.
For more information on the new living neon displays, jump over to the UCSanDiego website.
Source: UCSanDiego : Gizmodo
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