Basic Research

We hope that our team and others will can use our oxygen-sensitive reporter system to improve S. oneidensis growth and microbial fuel cell design.

For example, researchers could use our fluorescent protein to study the length of time it takes from initial placement of the bacteria in the fuel cell until electrical energy is generated. Researchers could also use the gene to determine the optimal bacterial concentration that needs to be implemented in order to maximize energy output.

With the glowing protein, researchers may be able to formulate the optimal growth media for the bacteria. Certain media may generate more electricity or more nutrients may need to be added in order to maximize performance. Farmers may also be able to look at what crops produce certain nutrients and then plan from there as to how to generate electricity from the fermentation of these plants.

The gene could also be used to study methods for increasing electrical output on a larger scale and thus increasing fuel cell performance.