Perkin-Elmer Consortium To Research WLIS Applications

Perkin-Elmer's analytical instruments division (Norwalk, CT), Lockheed Martin Energy Research Corp. (Oak Ridge, TN), and the University of Tennessee (Knoxville), have signed a cooperative research and development agreement (Crada) to investigate commercial applications for the technology used in the biosensor project. The technology behind the biosensors, wireless luminescence integrated sensors (WLIS), was developed by researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory and at the University of Tennessee to create a wireless chip with bioluminescent bacteria genetically engineered to be sensitive to pollutants in the environment.

Perkin-Elmer expects the technology to be a cheaper and more sensitive alternative to today's technology for remote sensing of a wide range of pollutants and other target substances. The WLIS technology is expected to detect substances ranging from heavy metals to complex organic compounds at lower levels than current technology.

Some of the potential areas of use include pollution control systems, construction site monitoring, and waste site remediation and monitoring. The biosensor project will also develop bioluminescent cells sensitive to possible endocrine disrupters in the environment. This research will aid in the goals of a cleaner environment, contribute to health care and may help in the location of new domestic oil and natural gas.

In addition to Perkin-Elmer's lead research efforts to develop detailed market analyses for commercial applications, Perkin-Elmer, in collaboration with the University of Tennessee and Oak Ridge National Laboratory, will define specific WLIS product configurations, develop software, and perform systems integration to place the WLIS into commercial markets.

The Perkin-Elmer Corp. develops, manufactures, and markets life science systems and analytical instruments used in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, environmental testing, food, agriculture, semiconductor, and chemical manufacturing.

For more information, call Perkin-Elmer at 203-762-1000.