Comparative study of cell-based biosensors using Pseudomonas cepacia for monitoring aromatic compounds

Abstract Cells of Pseudomonas cepacia were immobilized in calcium alginate gel and their metabolic responses when exposed to a range of derivatized aromatic compounds were studied. This was achieved by placing the immobilized cells in close proximity to an oxygen electrode or within a simple flow calorimeter. Metabolic responses vs. many derivatized aromatics were obtained. The two detector systems gave slightly different signals as different parts of the metabolism are tapped by each sensor. In addition to the direct dose-response studies, it was also possible to use the cell-based sensor to obtain information concerning the cellular physiology.