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Team:Gaston Day School
From 2012.igem.org
Gaston Day School's iGEM project for 2012 is composed of three parts. For part 1 we are
further developing our Red Fluorescent Nitrate Detector fom last year. We plan to continue
the nitrate detector since nitrates pose a relevant problem in our local commnuity due
to large farms. We decided to use the Red Fluorescent Protein over the traditional Green FLuorescent
Protein. The RFP gives our detector a signifcant advantage over others. The fluorescense
is visible with the naked eye rather than the use of a black light. This is an advantage
because in both the United States and third world countries, farmers and homeowners do
not carry a black light in their pockets. The detector is simple to use. A water sample is
placed in the detector. After a set amount of time, if nitrates are present, the water sample
will turn bright red. If they are not present, the water sample will remain clear.
However, this year we need to make a few adjustments and improvements. Our nitrate detector
is not sensitive enough. As of now, we have a functional prototype. The problem is that
when it is able to detect the level of nitrates, the person would already have suffered
severe side effects if not death. The problem with nitrate is that it limits
hemoglobin's ability to carry oxygen. The largest problem usually occurs in small children.
Without the ocyge, the baby turns blue. This is known as methemoglobenemia, or blue
baby syndrome.
For the second part of our project this year, we would like to construct a Cadmium sensor.
Both detectors use the genetically modified bacteria to provide the fluorescent color.
After use, our directions recommend treating the bacteria with bleach (included the the
kit). As we all know, not everyone reads the directions! We are afraid that instead of
properly treating the bacteria with bleach, the users will decide to dump it down the drain,
in their garden, or other locations. We plan for the last part of our project to be based
solely on safety. What will happen if the user does (fill in the blank)?
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