Publication Details

Category Text Publication
Reference Category Book chapters
DOI 10.1007/7171_2006_076
Title (Primary) Biosensing of heavy metals
Title (Secondary) Molecular microbiology of heavy metals
Author Harms, H.
Publisher Nies, D.H.; Silver, S.
Source Titel Microbiology Monographs
Year 2007
Department UMB
Volume 6
Page From 143
Page To 157
Language englisch
Abstract Naturally occurring, regulated resistance mechanisms of bacteria against various heavy metals and metalloids have been used to construct whole-cell living biosensors or bioreporters. Molecular fusions of regulatory circuits with reporter genes encoding easily detectable reporter proteins enable bioreporters to sense metal targets, typically at concentrations in the nanomolar to micromolar range, although more sensitive sensors also exist. The biological components of extant bioreporter constructs and the target ranges and sensitivities of bioreporter constructs are presented. An outlook on developments using novel molecular interactions as triggers of the biological responses and strategies for the improvement of bioreporters is given. Application examples are presented that illustrate the capability of bioreporters to measure bioavailable fractions of the target species rather than total loads.
Persistent UFZ Identifier https://www.ufz.de/index.php?en=20939&ufzPublicationIdentifier=1840
Harms, H. (2007):
Biosensing of heavy metals
In: Nies, D.H., Silver, S. (eds.)
Molecular microbiology of heavy metals
Microbiology Monographs 6
Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg, New York, p. 143 - 157 10.1007/7171_2006_076