Abstract
The rapidly deteriorating health of the Chesapeake Bay is a consistent problem in Maryland. An overabundance of nutrients directly leads to harmful algal blooms (HABs) and contaminates the water that both wildlife and we depend on. Increased nutrient pollution and the toxins associated with HABs are harmful to the environment, human health, and the economy. Having previously targeted phosphorus in 2021, our team seeks to target the most soluble nutrient pollutant; however, current strategies do not prioritize reuse, which is problematic since nitrogen synthesis contributes to agricultural unsustainability. UMaryland iGEM’s solution is to engineer E. coli to increase its capacity for storing nitrogen as cyanophycin granule polypeptides (CGP). Our design also includes the ability to hydrolyze CPG into nitrogen-rich amino acids for reuse. To ensure our design efficacy and its utility, our team engaged with experts and stakeholders who want to decrease nutrient pollution and promote agricultural sustainability.
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