Select your language
Directorate for Development and Projects
HM-Sense - Flagellin-based biosensors for multiple heavy metals sensing
Project ID: 2024-1.2.6-EUREKA-2024-00001
Project description:
Polluting heavy metals in natural waters, soil and food cause serious problems. Their toxic effects can cause serious damage to human and animal organs, in particular because of their tendency to bioaccumulate. Standard methods for the detection of heavy metals require specialized and relatively slow sampling procedures and therefore there is a strong need for advanced rapid tests based on biosensors. Biosensors have outstanding advantages (e.g. simplicity, increased sensitivity, short detection time). Through genetic engineering and low-cost production processes, project partners are developing more economically viable biosensor assays for on-site quantification of heavy metals. The aim of the project is to develop a unique biosensor platform for the detection of four heavy metals (Hg, Cd, Ni, As). Our main objective is to develop a portable test capable of detecting several heavy metals simultaneously in different samples (water, soil, food) at ppt concentrations. The platform is based on the use of a biopolymer, flagellar filament, genetically modified to specifically bind different heavy metals. This specific biopolymer is attached to a low-cost electrochemical sensor, which is fabricated by laminating gold leaf and a low-cost PVC sheet, and its electrodes are patterned by laser ablation. This technology allows the realization of stable biosensors with low detection limits. The objectives of the project will be achieved by pooling research capabilities in protein engineering, manufacturing technology, sensor development and biosensor diagnostics, which will enhance the technological knowledge of all participants and result in a marketable product. In addition, further genetic modifications of biopolymers to detect other contaminants (e.g. pathogens, pesticides, toxins or tumour biomarkers) will increase the product portfolio of biosensor tests.
Type of the contract: Grant Agreement
Project duration: 1/1/2025 – 31/12/2027
Total project cost: 83.799.988 HUF
Support rate: 83,5 %
Support rate of the University of Pannonia: 100 %
Grant amount of the University of Pannonia: 55.000.000 Ft
Consortium Leader: University of Pannonia
Consortium partners: PLASTICOR Műanyagfeldolgozó Kft.
Professional leader: Hajnalka DR JANKOVICS
Professional leader ’s email address:
Project manager: Dorottya PILINSZKI PÉK
Project manager's email address: