The aim of the project is to test an R&D idea in the framework of the Horizon Europe strategic plan 2025-2027. This R&D idea involves the introduction of a fluorescent protein into sphingomonads and its application for the detection of aromatic compounds with the development of whole-cell biosensors. Sphingomonads are described as bacteria with bioremediation potential and are often found in polluted environments, where they are adapted to metabolise a wide range of pollutants such as pesticides, polycyclic aromatic compounds, bisphenol A, organophosphates, heavy metals, or other volatile organic compounds. These pollutants are harmful to human and animal health, and some of them have been identified as carcinogens. To date, considerable progress has been made in understanding the catabolism of aromatic compounds in sphingomonads, but the application of genetic engineering and biotechnology to these bacteria has not yet been developed. In addition, synthetic biology tools based on inducible gene expression systems for sphingomonads have not been developed. The project is funded by the Economic Recovery and Resilience Plan “Next Generation Lithuania” and the State Budget of the Republic of Lithuania.
Project funding:
Funding for identified start-up R&D projects and feasibility studies with institutional roadmaps to encourage successful participation in the EU research and innovation funding programme Horizon Europe
Period of project implementation: 2024-07-25 - 2025-07-31
Project coordinator: Kaunas University of Technology
