- Dr Jon Heras
- Synthetic Biology parasite detection
- Anim./Multimedia-D/Exhibits
Illustration showing an example of the use of synthetic biology, to create bacteria engineered to detect the presence of parasites. This bacterium contains both its own DNA (green helix) and an artificial part (blue) that codes for the production of surface proteins (circles) and other internal structures. These proteins are tailored to detect the presence of Schistosoma parasites (pink), the cause of the tropical disease schistosomiasis. When the parasites are detected, the internal structures change the colour of the bacteria to red. Engineering bacteria normally present in the water in high-risk regions could provide a warning to people that the water is contaminated by the parasites, as it would turn red in their presence.
- Collections: Editorial
About the Artist: Dr Jon Heras x
I run Equinox Graphics, a small technical illustration and animation studio in Cambridge, after completing my PhD in engineering, and we have worked for important clients such as Bloodhound SSC, ESA, NASA, Nature, Design Council, Institute of Physics, Institute of Mechanical Engineers, Windfall Films, etc., and have been published in Nature, Science, BMJ, The Lancet, New Scientist, Chemistry World, The Ecologist as well as BBC news and science publications.
Our hands-on science and engineering backgrounds remove the knowledge gap that can frustrate communication on technical projects. We have developed a distinctive style, and our work was recently recognised by Science magazine, being awarded an honourable mention (i.e. runner-up) in their 2011 Science and Engineering Visualization Challenge, which is fiercely fought by artists and scientists alike from around the world.
We have a wide knowledge of both the biological and physical sciences, and can communicate with scientists to ensure accuracy and functionality in our science communication media.