Development of a phenylalanine and tyrosine detection system by prokaryotic genetic circuits

Our proposal seeks to address the need to routinely control toxic metabolites in patients with innate metabolism errors. In particular, we focus on phenylcetonuria, where the accumulation of phenylalanine and decrease in tyrosine require continuous measurement to prevent serious complications. Currently, there are no portable devices that allow these metabolites to measure, and samples must be sent to high costs. Our approach is to develop a cell biosensor based on principles of synthetic biology. This biosensor uses a modified bacterium with a biological circuit that, in the presence of phenylalanine (PHE) and tyrosine (TYR), activates the production of reporters to reliably measure the levels of these amino acids. In addition, the modular design of biosensor allows us to easily adapt for the detection of other molecules associated with innate metabolism errors. This technological advance will have a significant impact by allowing more accessible control, at low cost and easy to use for patients both inside and outside the country, improving their quality of life and preventing serious complications associated with these diseases.

OUT OF CALL – EXTERNAL FUNDS