From Pulse 2.0 · Amit Chowdhry · · 50s
Columbia Researchers Create PFAS Water Detector
Columbia scientists build yeast and AI system to quickly test water for toxic PFAS chemicals.
In brief
Columbia scientists build yeast and AI system to quickly test water for toxic PFAS chemicals. Columbia researchers developed a low-cost yeast and AI-based system that detects PFAS in water, potentially saving municipal water systems hundreds of thousands of dollars per test. Originally reported by Pulse 2.0.
Columbia Researchers Develop Yeast And AI-Based System
Researchers from Columbia University and City College created a biohybrid detection system using engineered yeast, ai-designed proteins, and semiconductor sensors to measure pfas in water.
“These devices are example of biohybrid systems, systems in which engineered biological systems are combined with semiconductor sensors and actuators to create a system with a function beyond what is possible with solid-state or biological system alone.”
PFAS Are Toxic Forever Chemicals
PFAS, known as "forever chemicals," are synthetic compounds that resist water, grease, stains, and heat but break down extremely slowly in the environment and human body.
System Costs Hundreds of Thousands Less Per Test
The system could reduce testing expenses by hundreds of thousands of dollars for individual municipal water systems using disposable test strips and wireless readers.
What it means
Columbia researchers developed a low-cost yeast and AI-based system that detects PFAS in water, potentially saving municipal water systems hundreds of thousands of dollars per test.
