Naturally occurring photosynthetic microorganisms are the focus of an invention to rapidly detect contamination of water supplies. The patent, awarded recently to a team led by Eli Greenbaum of Oak Ridge National Laboratory, advances previous work in this area but involves a method rather than apparatus to detect chemical or biological warfare agents. Unlike traditional systems, there is no filter paper or other material that can become fouled and rendered useless. Instead, Greenbaum's method involves tissue-based biosensors such as green algae and cyanobacteria for direct detection of chemical warfare agents. These living sensors are always present and continuously renewed by flowing water. As water samples pass through the cell, any changes that negatively affect photosynthetic capability will be detected. With a compact optoelectronic recording system, a cell modem and encrypted communications, coded messages can be transmitted to a remote location where appropriate action can be taken. This work was funded by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency and United Defense.
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