Recombinant Expression of Metal-Binding Proteins (Bacterioferritin, MBP, Metallothionein, and OprF) and Pesticide-Binding Proteins (LC-Cutinase and OpdA) in Escherichia coli for Detection of Agricultural Contaminants

Abstract

We consume fruits and vegetables every day without knowing whether or not agricultural residues (i.e. pesticides & heavy metals) are present on them. Current methods of agricultural residue detection are not easily accessible to the public and are inconvenient for everyday use. Thus, we want to develop a convenient visualization of agricultural residues by designing metal-binding and pesticide-binding proteins along with colored proteins that can directly interact with these residues. We worked with metal-binding proteins including Bacterioferritin, MBP, Metallothionein, and OprF. We also utilized pesticide-binding proteins LC Cutinase and OpdA. In this paper, we envision a system in which our residue-binding proteins are fused with chromoproteins to allow for the visible detection of agricultural residues on produce. Our final product can be used by consumers, distributors and farmers alike.Competing Interest StatementThe authors have declared no competing interest.View Full Text