Biosensei

Project Info

BIOSENSEI develops a real-time, multiplexed, end-to-end, tailored and reliable biosensor platform, using cellular responses, for detection of abiotic pollutants: nutrients, estrogenic endocrine-disrupting chemicals, and PFAS (Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances); and biotic pollutants: microcystins. Cellular biosensors from bacterial variants will be genetically engineered using RNA-RNA interactive and type III CRISPR-Casmediated transduction cascades. These biosensors are encapsulated and immobilised at bi-modal transducers (nanoelectrochemical and optical) to provide highly reliable, tuneable and sensitive detection of the target pollutants. Bespoke ultra-low-power analogue frontends and autonomous IoT endnodes will enable operation and data acquisition from biosensors and facilitate easy integration in existing LoRa networks enabling real-time data feeds. Neural computing algorithms are embedded on the edge to correct for sensor aging and interferents in the (bio)chemical transduction and to improve sensor data accuracy. An online dashboard will be developed to allow end-users to visualise data.

BIOSENSEI will embed the whole R&D process within a safe-and-sustainable-by-design framework to guarantee environmental safety related to risks of potential release into the open environment. Biosensors will be scalable, and adaptable to different applications in water and soil, and will be deployed in four different use cases. The consortium is vertically integrated, bringing expertise in cellular biology, surface chemistry, nanoelectronics fabrication, hardware integration, regulatory and industrial sampling and artificial intelligence. BIOSENSEI directly addresses HORIZON-CL6-2023-ZEROPOLLUTION-01-6 Biosensors and user-friendly diagnostic tools for environmental services and will allow cellular biosensors to be deployed outside laboratory settings for the first time. The project has the potential to considerably contribute to fulfilling the EU vision on zero pollution.