Action Potential Shape Analysis for Detecting Toxins in Warfare, Using a Realistic Mathematical Model of Differentiated NG108-15 Cells

摘要

Currently used warfare agent toxicity detection methods are ideal if the toxic agent is known. For the detection and classification of unknown toxins whole cell biosensors are better suited because they respond to a wider selection of toxic agents at physiological concentrations. The whole cell response to a known or unknown toxin reflects a system-level response that involves multiple components within the cell that function in a coordinated fashion. The utilization of this effect might enable the fabrication of biosensors that detect complex biological phenomena. Now algorithms can be constructed to relate toxin effects to these cellular processes. We are creating whole cell biosensors, which use cultured cells in a defined environment to monitor perturbations in the normal physiological activity of cells caused by an environmental threat or warfare agent.