As natural conditions change and human activities increase, the importance and urgency of controlling the microbial proliferation on the mural surface to prevent deterioration have become more prominent. Among various solutions, bioremediation has a promising outlook. Our product Synbio-MuralShield utilizes Escherichia coli as the platform to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi on the mural surface and remove their secretions. It shows strong potential in solving this problem.
However, as a product that needs to be set up outside the laboratory, we recognize the need to take preventive measures to avoid the leakage of microorganisms on the substrate into the environment or cause additional damage to the mural. We have addressed these issues through a series of design attempts. We designed a suicide element, allowing our substrate engineering bacteria to only survive in an environment containing arabinose. In this way, we limit our microorganisms to the microbial carrier containing arabinose, and once they enter the external environment, they will not be able to survive.
During the project design stage, we consulted Professor Wu Fashi from the Dunhuang Academy. He pointed out that some organic materials on the mural surface could also be substrates for the enzymes we use, which might cause additional damage to the mural. We combined our enzymes with the dockerin domain of Bacillus subtilis glucanase to enable these enzymes to form enzyme complexes with the scaffoldin fused with specific binding peptides. We hope to improve the degradation ability of microbial secretions in this way and avoid causing damage to the mural.
Before starting the experiment, our team completed online safety training, which included watching instructional videos and taking tests, supervised by our team leader. The training covered basic topics such as the use of pipettes and cell culture techniques. In accordance with the safety regulations outlined in the iGEM overview, we implemented strict measures to prevent bacteria from being released into the environment, limiting our research activities to the use of Escherichia coli BL21 and Escherichia coli DH5α, which were considered safe for laboratory testing. Additionally, we conducted face-to-face training and held meetings with the biosafety committee to strengthen safety protocols. As described below, maintaining these safety protocols helped ensure a safe working environment during our wet laboratory period. There were no reports of safety incidents in the experiments.
A teacher led our biosafety committee, which consisted of two research assistants. They were primarily responsible for supervising the safety and hygiene conditions of the working area. They provided specialized safety training for all team members to ensure a safe working environment. They ensured the safety of our personnel and the correct use of equipment during the experiments.
These guidelines aim to ensure the safety of laboratory personnel, prevent accidents, and facilitate the smooth conduct of experiments.
General Microbiology Laboratory
Microorganisms
Escherichia coli DH5α, Escherichia coli BL21
Risk Management Tools
The accident reporting procedure should clearly outline emergency contact numbers and designated instructors responsible. Personal protective equipment must always be worn, including laboratory coats, gloves, and protecting eyes during all laboratory activities.
We are pleased to announce that our laboratory procedures have not experienced any accidents or safety issues. In our experiments, we strongly emphasize safety by following established protocols. We continue to strive to maintain higher biosafety standards in all upcoming experiments and projects.