DEVELOPMENT OF BIOSENSORS FOR THE DETECTION OF MERCURY AND COPPER IONS

The development of genetically engineered biosensors for copper and me rcury ions is described. The biosensors have been constructed by fusin g the lux or light emitting genes from Vibrio fischeri with genetic re gulating elements that respond to copper ions or mercury ions, derived respectively from Escherichia coli and Serratia marcescens. The fusio ns were placed into E. coli cells which then emitted light in response to copper or mercury ions. Data is presented describing the sensitivi ty, specificity, and dynamic range of the biosensors to their respecti ve target metal ions. A preliminary description of experiments is prov ided indicating how these biosensors might be used to investigate the bioavailability of mercury and copper ions in environmental samples.