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  • Introduction
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  • F2620 Comparison
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Infector Detector: Modelling

Abstract

Infector Detector (ID) is a simple biological detector, which serves to expose bacterial biofilm. It functions by exploiting the inherent AHL (Acetyl Homoserine Lactone) production employed by certain types of quorum-sensing bacteria, in the formation of such structures.
This section presents a preliminary model for an AHL detector, which employs the backbone of the Lux quorum-sensing feedback mechanism. Figure 1 illustrates the full system we are investigating.

In the design phase, two possible system constructs were proposed, as a solution to the problem of detecting AHL-producing biofilm. According to our specifications, the most crucial feature of this system is the sensitivity to a minimum [AHL] of 5nm. In other words, this represents the minimal AHL concentration for appreciable expression of a chosen reporter protein. Furthermore, we attempt to establish a functional range for possible AHL detection. How does increased AHL concentration impact on the maximal output of reporter protein? Finally, how can the system performance be tailored, by exploiting possible inputs to the system (e.g. varying initial LuxR concentration and/or concentration of pLux promoters). In performing such customization, what is the impact upon the maximal output of fluorescent reporter protein and/or response time?

We attempt to answer these questions by conducting a simulation of the system in-silico.

Implementation & Reaction Network

Construct 1

Representative Model

At reasonably high molecular concentrations of the state variables, a continuous model can be adopted, which is represented by a system of ordinary differential equations.

It is for this reason that our approach to modelling the system follows a deterministic, continuous approximation. In developing this model, we were interested in the behaviour at steady-state, that is when the system has equilibrated and the concentrations of the state variables remain constant.

We can condition the system in various manners, but for the purposes of our project, we will seek a formulation which is valid for both constructs considered, i.e. the governing equations are a represenation of both constructs.

The only difference is with regards to the parameter k₁, the maximum transcription rate of the constitutive promoter (pTET) in Construct 1.
Thus k₁ = 0 for construct 2 (which lacks pTET).

Our analysis took us through a number of models, but presented here is the most pertinent, most representative version. This model is based on energy-dependence (limited nutrient supply), which follows Hill-like dynamics.

The system kinetics are determined by the following coupled-ODEs. For a derivation of the governing equations, please access

Model 2, an energy-dependent network, where the dependence on energy assumes Hill-like dynamics

Model Parameters

Simulations

Presented below are the most essential features of the simulation performed.

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Figure 3: Comparison of the sensitivity, response time and maximal output of both constructs, for varying initial [AHL]

Discussion

From figure 3, it is evident that the response time of construct 1 (C1) is far greater than that of construct 2 (C2). C1 crosses some arbitrary threshold, say 6000 a.u. at approximately t = 150min, whereas C2 below 10min. This is in line with our hypothesis, as we know steady-state has been forced upon the system in case of construct 2 - by flooding the system with purified LuxR.

Also the peak expression (max output) of GFP obtained for C1 is lower by approximately 50 percent. So, C2 produces a stronger output for corresponding [AHL]. However, although C2 is faster and generates a greater output, its energy consumption is far more pronounced. C1 thus has a greater lifespan.

In terms of sensitivity, construct 2 is also more sensitive to lower [AHL];

Conclusions