DEVELOPMENT OF BIOSENSORS FOR THE DETECTION OF MERCURY AND COPPER IONS

The development of genetically engineered biosensors for copper and mercury ions is described. The biosensors have been constructed by fusing the lux or light emitting genes from Vibrio fischeri with genetic regulating elements that respond to copper ions or mercury ions, derived respectively from Escherichia coli and Serratia marcescens. The fusions were placed into E. coli cells which then emitted light in response to copper or mercury ions. Data is presented describing the sensitivity, specificity, and dynamic range of the biosensors to their respective target metal ions. A preliminary description of experiments is provided indicating how these biosensors might be used to investigate the bioavailability of mercury and copper ions in environmental samples.