An Optimization of a Bioassay for Toluene Analogs using Bioluminescence Reporter Strain KG1206

A genetically engineered strain of P. putida mt-2 KG1206 used in this study contains the intact TOL plasmid and a plasmid with the P _m-lux gene, and bioluminescence was produced by direct (m-toluate and benzoate) and indirect inducers (toluene analogs). Much less bioluminescence was produced by benzoate and o-xylene among the tested inducers. This bioluminescence producing strain was used for the quantification of m-toluate in soil, and a quantification protocol for pollutant was developed for standardization. Values determined by bioluminescence were in the range of 75 (min.) ～158 (max.) % of their true concentration as determined by HPLC analysis. Statistical analysis indicates that this bioluminescence strain is useful for quantifying specific pollutant in environmental system. However, more investigation is required for mixture pollutants in the environment.