Irish-led research team develops bacteria-based sensors to detect 'forever chemicals'
A groundbreaking innovation led by Irish scientists has resulted in the creation of bacteria capable of identifying the presence of 'forever chemicals' in soil and water, and transmitting this information in real-time. This development is expected to significantly advance efforts to locate and eliminate these rapidly accumulating chemicals from the environment.
The Tyndall Institute at University College Cork is spearheading the Biosensei project, a collaborative effort involving expertise from seven other European universities and research centers. Prof. Alan O'Riordan, from the Tyndall Institute, secured funding from the European Commission and assembled a consortium of experts to work on this project.
"It is a privilege to collaborate with such talented individuals on this crucial development, which will safeguard future generations," Prof. O'Riordan stated.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as 'forever chemicals,' are notorious for their inability to degrade naturally in the environment, leading to a concerning accumulation that scientists believe poses a significant public health risk. There are thousands of these chemicals, commonly used to coat everyday items like cookware, clothing, and furnishings, making them non-stick, waterproof, fire-resistant, and stain-resistant.
Over time, these chemicals find their way into wastewater, and subsequently, into waterways used for drinking water and soils used for food production. Until now, detecting PFAS required taking samples to laboratories, a time-consuming process that is only effective in known contamination areas or small, static water or soil samples.
The Biosensei consortium has developed a compact, matchbox-sized device containing genetically modified bacteria that react to the presence of these chemicals. These bacteria trigger sensors that continuously relay real-time data to researchers monitoring remotely.
Wageningen University in the Netherlands led the bacterial research, while the Tyndall Institute engineered the microscopic sensors, which are as thin as a strand of hair. The device is set to undergo field testing in the Netherlands and at Harper's Island Wetlands reserve in Cork Harbour.
"We have successfully demonstrated the concept, and we are only halfway through a three-year project," Prof. O'Riordan explained. The technology has a promising market in wastewater treatment plants.
"A company we know is working on chemical degradation of PFAS, but they need to know their target areas and confirm their success. They require accurate, real-time detection, which our technology can provide. As more remediation technologies emerge in the coming years, targeting various contaminants like pharmaceuticals in water, we can adjust the bacteria to react to a wide range of substances," Prof. O'Riordan added.
