Consequences of Mercury Poisoning

Current Solutions to this crisis

Bolivian authorities have implemented various regulations and initiatives to address mercury contamination. These measures include oversight of mining operations, environmental monitoring, and promoting gold extraction technologies that are less harmful to the environment (El País, 2023; Pan American Health Organization, 2024). However, the existing detection methods, while effective, require specialized personnel and expensive equipment, which limits their accessibility and effectiveness.

Conventional Mercury Detection Methods and Their Challenges

Mercury is a highly toxic contaminant that poses serious risks to human health and the environment. precise and timely detection of mercury in water is essential to mitigate its harmful effects. several methods are available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of sensitivity, cost, and applicability.

Our Solution: Bacterial Biosensor

The proposed solution is a bacterial biosensor designed to effectively detect mercury in water. This design is innovative in that it allows for rapid and continuous measurements without the need to transport samples to distant laboratories. This enables Amazonian communities, companies, and organizations to monitor contamination "in situ."

The iGEM Bolivia biosensor is capable of identifying both inorganic mercury (Hg2+) and organic mercury (CH3-Hg+), a distinction that is of paramount importance given that organic mercury species are more toxic and are primarily ingested through food. This necessitates the selective detection of methylmercury, which is inherently challenging even with conventional methods. It is for this reason that our biosensor has the potential to make a significant impact by detecting concentrations of organic mercury. This is achieved through the use of synthetic biology, optimized genes, and molecular logic gates, thus obviating the need for complex instruments, sophisticated facilities, and highly qualified personnel. This technology offers specific and differentiated detection of mercury through transformed bacteria used with an electronic device to provide quantitative results.
The objective is to develop a portable, sensitive, and selective microbial biosensor for organic mercury (methylmercury) and to propose two strategies to address its detection.

Expected Impact

The bacterial biosensor developed by iGEM Bolivia is poised to make a transformative impact in several key areas:

Public Health

The biosensor will play a crucial role in enabling authorities to implement more effective environmental and public health policies. By providing rapid and precise mercury detection, it will help mitigate health risks associated with mercury exposure, such as neurological and cardiovascular diseases. This proactive approach to monitoring will contribute to reducing illnesses and fatalities caused by hazardous chemicals in water, directly supporting SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), particularly Target 3.9, which aims to reduce the health impacts of pollution.

Community Empowerment

The biosensor will empower Amazonian communities by equipping them with the tools needed to monitor their water quality independently. This capability will enable them to take control of their health and manage their natural resources more effectively. By democratizing access to advanced technology, the biosensor will enhance community resilience and promote sustainable development at the local level

Biodiversity Preservation

The ability to detect mercury contamination will facilitate timely interventions to protect both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems in the Amazon. By informing policies aimed at reducing mercury pollution, the biosensor will help preserve the region's rich biodiversity. This aligns with SDG 15 (Life on Land), particularly Target 15.1, which emphasizes the conservation and sustainable use of terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems.

Contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being - The biosensor will help reduce the incidence of diseases linked to mercury exposure, addressing Target 3.9.
SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation - By providing a tool to monitor and improve water quality, the biosensor will contribute to Target 6.3, which aims to reduce pollution and minimize the release of hazardous chemicals.
SDG 15: Life on Land - The biosensor will support Target 15.1 by aiding in the conservation and sustainable management of ecosystems affected by mercury pollution.