We create turnkey microbial sensors that detect chemicals within minutes by rewiring cellular electron flows directly into measurable electrical signals.

🔹 Modular electron-transport chain in E. coli
We assembled an eight-component pathway in Escherichia coli that couples detection of thiosulfate—a nutrient linked to harmful algal blooms—to an electrical current. Upon sensing thiosulfate, engineered modules shuttle electrons to an electrode, producing a clear signal in just 2 minutes. By swapping in a protein “switch” and embedding conductive nanomaterials, we extended this rapid detection to endocrine-disrupting pollutants in real water samples—with 3 minute responses.

🔹 Designing electron pathways in multiheme cytochromes
We systematically inserted short peptide segments throughout multiheme cytochromes—nature’s electron wires—to map regions tolerant of modification. This precision lets us tailor electron-shuttling proteins for maximal speed and modularity, a key advance for bioelectronic sensor performance.

Why it matters:

⚡ Ultrafast response: Detects environmental or health threats in real time, within 2–3 minutes.

⚡ Precision tuning: Enables rational protein engineering for custom signal performance.

⚡ Plug-and-play design: Supports rapid reprogramming for different targets and sample types.