Synthetic Biology Approaches to Modifying Bacteriophages for Use in Food and Agriculture
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Food safety is a critical concern for both public health and the global food industry. Foodborne pathogens can lead to severe illnesses, including gastroenteritis, meningitis, and even death. Recalls can cost the industry billions annually and undermine public trust in the food supply. As the need for faster and more efficient detection methods grows, bacteriophages (phages) are emerging as promising biosensors due to their host specificity, adaptability, and cost-effectiveness. An understanding of phage genomes is crucial for identifying key genes. Genetically modifying phages to improve their sensitivity and reliability as biosensors offers a transformative approach to pathogen detection. This dissertation explores i) the expanding role of biotechnology and synthetic biology in advancing food safety technology, ii) the importance of discovering and analyzing novel phages to elucidate gene function and the genome structure, and iii) the development of innovative genetic modification techniques to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of phage-based biosensors. Together, these efforts aim to enhance the integration of phage technology into food safety systems, mitigating public health risks while reducing overall costs.