<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><ns2:project xmlns:ns1="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api" xmlns:ns2="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api/project" xmlns:ns3="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api/fund" xmlns:ns4="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api/person" xmlns:ns5="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api/project/outcome" xmlns:ns6="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api/organisation" ns1:created="2026-06-22T07:57:45Z" ns1:href="http://gtr.ukri.org/gtr/api/projects/FA6E7739-5932-4082-AE22-9E85FEC388CA" ns1:id="FA6E7739-5932-4082-AE22-9E85FEC388CA"><ns1:links><ns1:link ns1:href="http://gtr.ukri.org/gtr/api/persons/0A7C133E-3966-46AE-B399-418CE736D884" ns1:rel="PM_PER"/><ns1:link ns1:href="http://gtr.ukri.org/gtr/api/organisations/7126E39C-C664-4787-8E02-BE9596EEFFDB" ns1:rel="LEAD_ORG"/><ns1:link ns1:href="http://gtr.ukri.org/gtr/api/organisations/7126E39C-C664-4787-8E02-BE9596EEFFDB" ns1:rel="PARTICIPANT_ORG"/><ns1:link ns1:end="2025-02-28T00:00:00Z" ns1:href="http://gtr.ukri.org/gtr/api/funds/66B4F8DC-845C-4A54-B680-BE5FFA0A0161" ns1:rel="FUND" ns1:start="2024-02-01T00:00:00Z"/></ns1:links><ns2:identifiers><ns2:identifier ns2:type="RCUK">10087368</ns2:identifier></ns2:identifiers><ns2:title>Optimisation of CAS-based rapid microbial biosensor</ns2:title><ns2:status>Closed</ns2:status><ns2:grantCategory>Collaborative R&amp;D</ns2:grantCategory><ns2:leadFunder>Innovate UK</ns2:leadFunder><ns2:abstractText>CEXAL LTD is delighted to present our innovative project focused on developing a cutting-edge cell-free biosensing system called the Dual-Cas9-Oligo (CasDuO) for the rapid detection of microorganisms in water samples. This pioneering project leverages engineering biology principles to overcome the limitations of traditional microbiological testing methods. By harnessing genetic circuitry, our biosensors will generate measurable signals upon detecting target microorganisms, enabling quick and accurate on-site monitoring.

**Improved Water Testing:** CEXAL's cell-free CasDuO biosensing system will offer a reliable and rapid alternative to traditional microbiological testing methods. This breakthrough technology will greatly expedite water quality assessment and ensure timely response to potential contaminants.

**Cost-effectiveness**: CEXAL's cell-free CasDuO biosensing system will offer a reliable and rapid alternative to traditional microbiological testing methods. This breakthrough technology will greatly expedite water quality assessment and ensure timely response to potential contaminants. Through vertical integration and reduced reliance on suppliers, we expect to control manufacturing costs effectively. This cost efficiency will translate into more affordable biosensing products, making them accessible to a broader range of users.

**Environmental Benefits**: With the ability to detect contaminants at lower concentrations, our CasDuO biosensors will enable earlier identification of potential environmental risks. Timely interventions can help protect ecosystems and public health.</ns2:abstractText></ns2:project>