Sensing Bacteria and Bacterial Sensing 

Electrochemistry is an exceptionally powerful tool to monitor and quantify biological interactions. Using the inherent function of bacteria, we can either directly sense them or use them to detect targets. In one example, by harnessing the inherent activity of bacteria, we have developed a sensitive platform to detect pathogenic E. coli from complex matrices. In a second, distinct example, we have used the inherent function of bacteria to degrade environmental contaminants and detect the degradation products. Taken together, this work demonstrates the specificity and selectivity that can be achieved from combining electrochemical readout with inherent biological function.

Ariel L. Furst is the Raymond (1921) & Helen St. Laurent Career Development Professor of Chemical Engineering at MIT. She received a B.S. degree in Chemistry from the University of Chicago. She then completed her Ph.D. in the lab of Prof. Jacqueline K. Barton at the California Institute of Technology developing new cancer diagnostic strategies based on DNA charge transport. She was an A. O. Beckman Postdoctoral Fellow in the lab of Prof. Matthew Francis at UC, Berkeley developing sensors to monitor environmental pollutants. Currently, her lab combines biological, chemical, and materials engineering to solve challenges in human health and environmental sustainability. She is passionate about STEM outreach and increasing participation of underrepresented groups in engineering.

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