https://video.igem.org/videos/watch/aaf9e2d2-4083-45b8-9bb4-69d84a6617e2 Title: NEWT, Next-generation Enzymatic Waterborne-pathogen Treatment Description: Driven by the ongoing climate crisis, traditional soil-based farming is increasingly challenged by a growing population to feed and the decline of available land and water resources. Hydroponics is emerging as a critical alternative, offering higher yields and greater resource efficiency. However, these closed-loop systems remain highly vulnerable to waterborne pathogens. Pythium causes root rot, which weakens and kills seedlings and mature crops across a wide range of vegetables, leafy greens, and herbs. Current countermeasures, including UV radiation and chemical fungicides, are either highly energy-intensive or environmentally damaging, leading to toxic runoff, disruption of beneficial root microbiota, and the rapid development of resistance. We developed NEWT, the Next-generation Enzymatic Waterborne-pathogen Treatment, as a biocontrol agent that addresses these challenges by detecting and treating infections in real time. We engineered Pseudomonas putida, a bacterium known for its beneficial interactions with hydroponic crops, to act as a synthetic biology chassis that releases lytic enzymes upon recognition of Pythium cell wall components. By replacing unsustainable countermeasures with an autonomous, bio-based solution, NEWT protects hydroponic systems' rhizobiomes while maintaining a mutualistic relationship with crops, which is essential for their growth. Our goal is to engineer a future where food is secure, sustainable, and accessible to all, because the future of food isn't just about growing more. It's about growing smarter! Wiki | Official Page Tue, 01 Sep 2026 17:01:56 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/aaf9e2d2-4083-45b8-9bb4-69d84a6617e2 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.