https://video.igem.org/videos/watch/1d206919-b22d-4b6d-b678-4b37450b5042 Title: A Synthetic Biology Approach to Finding Hidden Mercury Description: Hong Kong JSS is tackling the critical issue of mercury pollution in local water and soil. As a potent neurotoxin, mercury poses a significant public health threat, with contamination in Hong Kong exceeding safety limits. To address this, the team is developing a portable, hardware-based biosensor for accessible and practical mercury detection. This device uses synthetic biology to produce a visible red color change in the presence of mercury. Two approaches are being explored: one using a mercury-responsive protein (MerR) and another employing a mercury-specific aptamer to activate a red fluorescent reporter protein. By collaborating with the public, industry, academics, and government, the project ensures the final biosensor is tailored to real-world needs. The ultimate goal is to provide an impactful tool for monitoring mercury, safeguarding both human health and the environment from its harmful effects. Official Page Tue, 01 Sep 2026 16:55:10 GMT https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html PeerTube - https://video.igem.org https://video.igem.org/client/assets/images/icons/icon-1500x1500.png https://video.igem.org/videos/watch/1d206919-b22d-4b6d-b678-4b37450b5042 All rights reserved, unless otherwise specified in the terms specified at https://video.igem.org/about and potential licenses granted by each content's rightholder.