Hunt, J. Porter; Barnett, R. Jordan; Robinson, Hannah; Wilding, Kristen; Bundy, Bradly C. (Brigham Young University)
Faculty Advisor: Bundy, Bradly (BYU Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering, Chemical Engineering)
Amino acid concentration assays assist both healthcare providers and patients in determining treatment plan options and diagnosis for diseases ranging from genetic conditions to eating disorders. Cell free protein synthesis provides a rapid, inexpensive platform where a single amino acid assay gives the concentration in that sample. As a biosensor, this assay has proven to provide sensitive and accurate results and has an extensive range of applications. Progress towards a simple product that anyone could use to test amino acid concentrations represents a major contribution to the healthcare industry.