IGEM:MIT/2005/Future direction

What we have done:

Make a modular tool

Input any external signal in a controlled manner

How to improve:

Modularity

ToxR needs to be "extended to outer membrane

Test with primary and secondary antibody setup

Use antigen that is not already a dimer

Test modularity by using different antigens, signal processing systems and actuators

Usability

Activity must be characterized

Could be tested in other chassis

Feedback mechanisms and other downstream stuff to demonstrate usability

System Applications:

Biosensor

environmental application -- test for contaminates

Research tools

Replace other antibody sensors (western blots), cell-cell signaling

Long term impact

extending and easing research in synthetic biology