In the realm of iGEM, our research endeavors were driven by a commitment to contribute to the progress of future iGEM teams. We shifted our focus towards how our work can benefit upcoming generations of iGEMers, rather than the broader societal impact.

Exploration of Bacterial Cellulose for Dyeing and Printing Wastewater Treatment:
Our research was rooted in addressing the challenges posed by dyeing and printing wastewater, which is notorious for its complex composition and environmental impact. We delved into the potential of microbial cellulose as a solution. This bacterial cellulose has the unique ability to filter colloidal and particulate matter in wastewater, thereby aiding in the removal of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and coloration. By assessing the effectiveness of bacterial cellulose in treating dyeing and printing wastewater, we have paved the way for future iGEM teams to explore this innovative approach for sustainable wastewater treatment in the textile industry.

Our work involved utilizing AcsAB and E. coli to synthesize bacterial cellulose, building upon the foundation laid by iGEM14_Imperial and the existing part BBa_K1321334. For future iGEM teams interested in utilizing BBa_K1321334 or similar methods for bacterial cellulose production, our comprehensive experiment records and research experiences will serve as invaluable resources, enabling them to swiftly grasp the techniques required for bacterial cellulose production.

During our research journey, we fostered collaboration with team RDFZ-CHINA and shared our experimental insights. Notably, we introduced one of our bio-synthetic products, bacterial cellulose, to them. Through rigorous discussions and analysis, we proposed that our bacterial cellulose could replace one of the materials they were using, offering a more eco-friendly alternative. This spirit of partnership and knowledge exchange exemplifies the collaborative ethos of iGEM, setting a precedent for future teams to leverage each other's expertise.

Our hardware design elements hold promise for future iGEM teams seeking innovative solutions. The modular design of our filtration system allows it to be divided into distinct sections. The initial filter design is compact and portable, fitting seamlessly into everyday life. It can be conveniently carried in backpacks or handbags, making it a versatile tool. By adapting the filtration material, this first-generation filter can be repurposed to filter various water sources, such as lake water during hiking expeditions. Future iGEM teams can draw inspiration from our filter shell design to create novel filters tailored to diverse applications.

Furthermore, the bacterial cellulose we produced possesses substantial potential for future iGEM teams. Its high purity, biocompatibility, and numerous advantages open doors to further exploration. iGEMers of the future can delve deeper, uncovering additional applications and uncovering the full extent of bacterial cellulose's potential.

This is a summarized section of iGEM projects related to bacterial cellulose.  For future teams interested in pursuing endeavors in this domain, it can serve as a quick reference guide.

In summation, our commitment to the iGEM community extends beyond our research outcomes; it encompasses a dedication to contributing to the growth and innovation of future iGEM teams. Through our work, we have laid the groundwork for novel approaches to wastewater treatment and offered a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration for those who will follow in our footsteps. The future of iGEM holds great promise, and we are excited to see how our contributions will shape the endeavors of generations to come.

Lee, K. Y., Buldum, G., Mantalaris, A., & Bismarck, A. (2014). More than meets the eye in bacterial cellulose: biosynthesis, bioprocessing, and applications in advanced fiber composites. Macromolecular bioscience, 14(1), 10–32. https://doi.org/10.1002/mabi.201300298