NC_old1194: Nanotechnology and Biosensors

(Multistate Research Project)

Status: Inactive/Terminating

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SAES-422 Reports

Annual/Termination Reports:

[10/14/2022] [10/05/2023] [10/21/2024] [11/08/2025]

Date of Annual Report: 10/14/2022

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 08/11/2022 - 08/12/2022
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2025 - 09/30/2026

Participants

In-Person Participants
• Mohammed Kamruzzaman, Agricultural and Biological Engineering, University of Illinois
• Boris Camiletti, Crop Sciences, University of Illinois
• Sundararaman Gunasekaran, Biological Systems Engineering, University of Wisconsin
• Yi-Cheng Wang, Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois
• Evangelyn Alocilja, Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, Michigan State University
• Chenxu Yu, Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Iowa State University
• Hazal Turasan, Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois
• Diana Vanegas, Biological and Agricultural Engineering, University of Arkansas
• Changmou Xu, Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois
• Matt Stasiewicz, Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois
• Braulio Macias, Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois

Remote Participants
• Jose Reyes, Agricultural and Biological Engineering, University of Florida
• Anhong Zhou, Biological and Chemical Engineering, Utah State University
• Omer Sadak, Food, Nutrition, and Packaging Sciences, Clemson University
• Mengshi Lin, Food, Nutrition and Exercise Sciences, University of Missouri
• Olga Tsyusko-Unrine, Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Kentucky
• Jian Shi, Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, University of Kentucky
• Kailong Zhang, Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, University of Kentucky
• Jeong-Yeol Yoon, Biomedical Engineering and Biosystems Engineering, University of Arizona
• Kurt Ristroph, Agricultural and Biological Engineering, Purdue University

Brief Summary of Minutes

The 2026 NC-1194 Annual Meeting was held August 11-12, 2026, in a hybrid format hosted by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. The meeting was chaired by Yi-Cheng Wang, and members from participating stations provided updates on ongoing research activities involving nanotechnology, biosensors, environmental monitoring, food safety, agricultural applications, artificial intelligence, and nanomaterial risk assessment.

Administrative updates were provided by Tala Awada, Administrative Advisor, and Steven Thomson, USDA-NIFA National Program Leader. Discussions focused on reporting requirements, renewal of the NC-1194 project for the 2026-2030 cycle, evolving USDA funding priorities, stakeholder engagement, technology translation, and increasing emphasis on implementation-focused research. Members were also informed of anticipated changes to USDA-NIFA programs, increasing proposal pressure, and opportunities for strengthening Extension and industry partnerships.

The committee received a presentation from Matt Stasiewicz regarding the S1077 multistate project, Enhancing Microbial Food Safety by Risk Analysis, and discussed opportunities for collaboration involving biosensors, food safety, stakeholder engagement, and joint proposal development.

A substantial portion of the meeting was devoted to strategic planning activities focused on increasing collaboration among NC-1194 members. Discussions centered on multi-author review papers, collaborative proposal development, integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning with biosensor technologies, stakeholder engagement, and opportunities to increase multidisciplinary participation in future projects. Potential review paper topics included AI-enabled biosensors, biosensors and nanotechnology in agriculture, and the role of machine learning in agricultural sensing and environmental monitoring.

The committee elected new officers for the 2026-2027 reporting year: Diana Vanegas (University of Arkansas) as Chair, Olga Tsyusko-Unrine (University of Kentucky) as Vice Chair/Chair-Elect, and Hazal Turasan (University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign) as Secretary. Members also discussed possible locations and formats for the 2027 annual meeting, emphasizing opportunities to strengthen interactions with stakeholders, industry partners, and extension personnel.

Full meeting minutes are available through NIMSS project records.

Accomplishments

The accomplishments of the NC-1194 group during the reporting period in relation to each of the project objectives are summarized below. Objective 1: Develop new technologies for characterizing fundamental nanoscale processes and fabricate self-assembled nanostructures Outputs: Research activities across participating stations advanced the understanding and application of nanoscale materials and nanostructures in environmental, agricultural, food, and biomedical systems. Efforts included development of nanozyme and single-atom nanozyme platforms (WI), graphene quantum dots and carbon nanotube systems (SC), nanogel fungicide delivery systems (IL), carbon-based nanocarriers for agrochemical delivery and tracing within plants (IN), spectroscopic imaging methods and AI-assisted models to characterize protein-nanoplastic interactions, approaches to understand and manipulate soil microbial communities associated with greenhouse gas emissions, and methods for environmental monitoring and risk assessment of nano- and microplastics (IA), pressure-stabilized enzyme systems (FL), laser-induced graphene (LIG) nanostructures (AR), PFAS-remediation nanomaterials (KY), and paper microfluidic sensing platforms (AZ). Research also expanded the use of sustainable agricultural biomass-derived nanomaterials and biochar-enabled materials for environmental and agricultural applications. Objective 2:Develop devices and systems incorporating nanotechnology and data-driven analytics for detection of biological/chemical targets, with an emphasis on detection of infectious diseases in plants, animals, humans, and the environment Outputs: Members reported the development and advancement of numerous biosensing technologies for detecting biological and chemical targets. These included: <ul> <li>Aptamer-based biosensors for detecting E. coli in hydroponic systems and wastewater-amended agricultural environments (AR).</li> <li>Copper nanoparticle-mediated sensors for glyphosate monitoring in environmentally impacted communities (AR).</li> <li>Smartphone-enabled biosensors and decentralized pathogen diagnostics for Salmonella and Campylobacter detection (MI).</li> <li>Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS)-based technologies for pesticide and contaminant detection (MO, IL).</li> <li>Paper microfluidic systems, PFAS sensing technologies, and smartphone-based diagnostics (AZ).</li> <li>Nanozyme-based sensors for food contaminants, pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals, and mycotoxins (IL).</li> <li>Nanomaterial-enabled time-temperature indicators and intelligent packaging systems for food quality monitoring (IL).</li> <li>Portable immunosensors for rapid, label-free detection of pathogens and antibiotic-resistant bacteria (IA).</li> <li>Graphene-based potentiometric ion-selective electrodes and laser-induced graphene platforms for environmental sensing, nutrient monitoring, biosensing, energy storage, and catalysis applications (IA).</li> <li>Aptasensor technologies for early detection of plant stress associated with fungal and pathogen attacks (IA).</li> <li>Chitosan nanoparticle-based selenium delivery systems for agricultural applications (IA).</li> <li>Safety assessments of Iron-dopped hydroxyapatites developed for foliar delivery of nitrogen (KY)</li> <li>Detection and characterization of nano- and microplastic contamination in aquatic systems and assessment of nanoplastic impacts on biological development and ecosystem health (IA).</li> <li>Safety and efficacy assessment of 2D nanomaterial-enabled application for PFAS removal and destruction (KY)</li> <li>Development of functional food technologies designed to enhance nutritional value and food quality (IA).</li> </ul> Collectively, these studies advanced low-cost, portable, and field-deployable biosensing technologies for agricultural, environmental, food safety, and biomedical applications. Objective 3: Advance the integration of novel sensor networks, information systems, and artificial intelligence for effective risk assessment and decision support for food security and safety Outputs: Several stations reported integration of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced analytics into sensing applications. Research activities included machine learning-enhanced Raman spectroscopy platforms (UT, MO), AI-assisted characterization of protein-nanoplastic interactions and predictive models for assessing nanoplastic binding behavior (IA), smartphone-enabled multispectral sensing and machine learning approaches for environmental monitoring (AZ), and predictive modeling efforts involving biosensor-generated datasets. Significant discussion among members focused on future opportunities to integrate biosensors, AI, machine learning, and large language models into agricultural decision-support systems, precision agriculture applications, environmental monitoring, and risk prediction frameworks. Objective 4: Develop and update education and outreach materials on nanofabrication, sensing, systems integration and application risk assessment. Outputs: Educational and workforce development activities continued to be a major component of NC-1194 efforts. Participating stations reported graduate and undergraduate student training in biosensors, nanotechnology, AI applications, environmental monitoring, food safety, and agricultural engineering. New educational initiatives included training in agricultural AI and instrumentation (UT), participatory environmental monitoring approaches in rural communities (AR), and research experiences for undergraduate, community college, and high school students focused on wearable graphene-based biosensor development (IA). Members also identified opportunities to expand engagement with extension specialists and stakeholder groups in future project activities. Strengthening global collaboration was also a major effort (MI). Objective 5: Increase the number academic-industry partnerships to help move the developed technologies to commercialization phase. Outputs: The committee emphasized the importance of increasing stakeholder engagement and expanding industry partnerships to improve technology translation and adoption. Multiple stations reported collaborations with industry partners, agricultural producers, and food system stakeholders. Notable activities included participation in an Industry-University Cooperative Research Center (IUCRC) focused on soil dynamics technologies and collaborations among multiple universities and industry partners to advance sensing and monitoring technologies (IA). During strategic planning activities, members discussed incorporating industry representatives, end users, extension specialists, and entrepreneurs into proposal development efforts and future meetings. Particular attention was given to identifying stakeholder needs early in the technology development process and designing biosensor technologies that address real-world agricultural, environmental, and food system challenges.

Publications

<ol> <li> Wu, Q., da Silva Ferreira, M. V., & Kamruzzaman, M. (2026). Fully portable smartphone-integrated device coupled with nanozyme-based assay for sensitive detection of TBHQ in edible oils. Food Chemistry, 518, Article 149610. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2026.149610">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2026.149610</a></li> <li>Hu, Y., Kamruzzaman, M. (2026). Nanozyme-Based Biosensing Strategies for Aflatoxin Detection: Recent Advances and Perspectives. Food Chemistry (Just accepted).</li> <li>McLamore, E., Vanegas, D. (2026). Zoospore microfluidic chemotaxis assay. protocols.io <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.17504/protocols.io.5jyl84297g2w/v1">https://dx.doi.org/10.17504/protocols.io.5jyl84297g2w/v1</a></li> <li>Clark, G., Vanegas, D., Cannon, A., Jankovik, M., Huang, R., Brown, K. A., … J. Roux, S. (2025). Levels of extracellular ATP in growth zones of Arabidopsis primary roots are changed by altered expression of apyrase enzymes. Plant Signaling & Behavior, 20(1). <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/15592324.2025.2555965">https://doi.org/10.1080/15592324.2025.2555965</a></li> <li>Moreira,G., Shaw, A.B., Amin, N., Gao, W., Sahoo, D., McLamore, E.S. (2026). A dip-and-read capacitive electrochemical sensor for orthophosphate monitoring. Sustain. Sci. Technol. 3 014004. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1088/2977-3504/ae3d3b">https://doi.org/10.1088/2977-3504/ae3d3b</a></li> <li>Gustafson, B.; Kosari, N.; Brothersen, E.; Mosher, M.; Zhou, A. Probe Cytotoxic and Oxidative Stress Effects of Nanoplastics on Caco-2 Cells: Insights from Raman Spectroscopy and Machine Learning. Sensors, 2026, 26, 5375. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/s26175375">https://doi.org/10.3390/s26175375</a></li> <li>Kousheh, S., Mustapha, A., Lin, M. 2026. In situ synthesis of gold-core silver-shell nanoparticles on bacterial cellulose for SERS detection of micro- and nanoplastic particles in vegetables. Analyst, 151, 1357-1370. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1039/d5an01043h">https://doi.org/10.1039/d5an01043h</a></li> <li>Hegde, A., Hajikhani, M., Snyder, J., Cheng, J., Lin, M. 2025. Leveraging SERS and transformer models for simultaneous detection of multiple pesticides in fresh produce. ACS Appl. Mater. Interfaces. 17, 2018-2031. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1021/acsami.4c17777">https://doi.org/10.1021/acsami.4c17777</a></li> <li>Kousheh, S., Lin, M. 2025. Recent advancements in SERS-based detection of micro- and nanoplastics in food and beverages: techniques, instruments, and machine learning integration. Trends Food Sci. Technol. 159, 104940. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tifs.2025.104940">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tifs.2025.104940</a></li> <li>Morales-Muralles, M., Serrano, S. J., Makhatadze, G., & Reyes-De-Corcuera, J. I (2026). Effect of high hydrostatic pressure on D-amino acid oxidase activity and stability. J. Biol. Eng. 20, 40. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1186/s13036-025-00604-x">https://doi.org/10.1186/s13036-025-00604-x</a></li> <li>Liang W, Ma X, Wang Y, Zhang W and Yu C. 2026. Biochar modulates microbial carbon metabolism to mitigate global warming potential during composting, Environmental Pollution, 407, 128768. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envpol.2026.128768">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envpol.2026.128768</a></li> <li>Ouyang Y, Ma X, Yang J, Tong T, Liang W, Wang Y, Zhang W and Yu C. 2026. Changes in antibiotic resistance gens and metal resistance genes of sheep manure through biochar assisted composting, Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering, 14(5), 123729. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jece.2026.123729">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jece.2026.123729</a></li> <li>Fan X, Wang Y, Liang W, Ma X, Zhang W and Yu C. 2026. Organic fertilizers reduce N2O and NH3 emissions by regulation soil nitrogen pool and microbiome, Journal of Environmental Management, 404, 129432, <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.129432">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.129432</a></li> <li>Wang, Y, Fan, X, Liang W, Ma X, Zhang W, Yu C. 2026. Biochar mitigates N2O and NH3 emissions in sheep manure composting by regulating microbial genes associated with nitrogen cycle, Environmental Technology & Innovation, 41, 104828. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eti.2026.104828">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eti.2026.104828</a></li> <li>Tong, T, Yang, J, Zhu B, Frese AJ, Greenlee MHW, Greenlee JJ, Yu C. 2026. Machine learning-assisted characterization of cervid skin tissues with chronic wasting disease by nano-enabled Raman spectroscopic biosensing, Nanoscale Advances, 8(2), 512-523.<a href="https://doi.org/10.1039/D5NA00252D">https://doi.org/10.1039/D5NA00252D</a></li> <li>Gustavo L Miliao, Francesco G Winandar, Ethan H Leung, Cicero C Pola, Jonathan C Claussen, Carmen L Gomes. 2026. Ion sensing in agricultural and food applications: a critical review of solid-contact ion-selective sensors, Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry 418 (7), 1891-1911</li> <li>Sommer Osman, Sanduni U. Devasinghe, E. Strait, Madison, C. Pola, Cicero, Delphine Dean, C. L. Gomes, Robbyn K. Anand. 2026. Label-free, non-optical detection of intact SARS-CoV-2 virions in native human saliva via microscale surface ion conduction, Biosensors and Bioelectronics, 304, 118643</li> <li>Gustavo L. Milião; Janan Hui; Raquel R A Soares; Haoyang You; Kayla Vittore; Cicero C. Pola; Ethan H. Leung; DoKyoung Lee; Stuart J. Rowan; Carmen L. Gomes; Mark C. Hersam ; Jonathan C. Claussen. 2026. Screen-Printed Biochar-Derived Graphene Solid-Contact Ion-Selective Electrodes for Nutrient Monitoring in Hydroponic Solutions, ACS Appl. Mater. Interfaces, 18 (29): 39865–39878</li> <li>Nathan M Jared, Griffin Ellis, Mahmoud Gshash, Ethan H Leung, Gustavo L Milião, Michelle Soupir, Nathan M Neihart, Jonathan C Claussen. 2026. Lab-on-a-Drone: Real-Time Electrochemical Sensing of Nitrate in Agricultural Watersheds, ACS sensors 11 (1), 136-147</li> <li>Eric A Riddell, Rachel M Sorensen, Elizabeth McNeill, Boris Jovanović. 2025. Metabolic effects of dietary exposure to polystyrene microplastic and nanoplastic in fruit flies, Journal of Experimental Biology, 228,19, jeb250522. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1242/jeb.250522">https://doi.org/10.1242/jeb.250522</a></li> <li>H Dey, N Alimoradi, A Farshad, P Shrotriya, M Nilsen-Hamilton. 2026. Abstract 2042 DNA aptamers recognizing cysteine protease 1 from maize roots for early plant stress biomarker detection, Journal of Biological Chemistry 302 (5)</li> <li>Aishat Abubakar, Samuel Shobade, Nima Alimoradi, Ali Farshad, Holly Loper, Pranav Shrotriya, Larry Halverson, Marit Nilsen-Hamilton. 2026. Abstract 3625 DNA aptamers for early detection of plant and bacterial-derived rhizosphere-associated chitinases using an aptasensor, Journal of Biological Chemistry 302 (5)</li> <li>Michelle Thayer, Marit Nilsen-Hamilton. 2026. Reduced PAI-1 Activity Promotes Longevity and Stress Resilience: Insights from a Drosophila Spn42Dd Model, AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 196 (5)</li> <li>S Anisuzzaman, M Nilsen-Hamilton. 2026. Metastable multimeric G-quadruplex 2′ FY-RNA aptamers that selectively bind pyoverdines, Sci Rep. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-60460-7">https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-60460-7</a></li> <li>Tang,, Choi, S.-J., Thomas, C., Miller, A. M., Dresbach-Hill, G. R., Khanthaphixay, B., Reynolds, K. A., Yoon, J.-Y. (2026). Dip and Taste PFAS to Detect and Classify from Environmental Water Samples. Journal of Hazardous Materials, 503: 141051.<a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.141051">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.141051</a></li> <li>Reynolds,, Sosnowski, K., Carlson, C., McGuire, T. D., Roman, W., Yoon, J.-Y. (2026). Smartphone-Based Multispectral Autofluorescence Analysis of Bacteria Mixtures of Staphylococci Using Convolutional Neural Network. Journal of Biological Engineering, 20: 15.<a href="https://doi.org/10.1186/s13036-025-00616-7">https://doi.org/10.1186/s13036-025-00616-7</a></li> <li>Mathews, K., Eby, A. J., Reynolds, J., Wong, R. K., Yoon, J.-Y. (2026). Rapid Antithrombin Assay from Human Blood Plasma Utilizing Smartphone-Based Flow Observation on Paper Chips. PLOS Digital Health, 5(2): e0001209. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pdig.0001209">https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pdig.0001209</a></li> <li>Williams M, Faraj R, Nyarku R, Simon S, Bentum KE, Ghazy A, Woube Y, Samuel T, Alocilja E, Abebe W3. 2025. Potential use of Biosensors for the rapid and specific isolation of Listeria monocytogenes from Ready-to-eat (RTE) foods, Pathogens 2025, 14(12), 1280; <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14121280">https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14121280</a></li> <li>Boodoo C1 and Alocilja EC3. 2025. Proof-of-Concept Nanoparticle-Based Biosensor for Detecting the African Swine Fever Virus Across Multiple Genotypes Using In Silico and In Vitro Approaches, ACS Omega 2025, 10, 51028−51038, <a href="https://doi/10.1021/acsomega.5c05375">https://doi/10.1021/acsomega.5c05375</a></li> <li>Boodoo C1 and Alocilja EC3. 2025. Biosensor Strategies for Rapid African Swine Fever Virus Detection, ACS Omega 2025, 10 (36), 40716-40725, <a href="https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.5c03168">https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.5c03168</a></li> <li>Al Hafi L1 and Alocilja EC3. 2025. Morphometric Characterization of Bacteria Associated with Bacteremia, Encyclopedia, 2025, 5(3), 130; <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia5030130">https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia5030130</a></li> <li>Kao K1 and Alocilja EC3. 2025. Integrated Sample to Detection of Carbapenem-Resistant Bacteria Extracted from Water Samples using a Portable Gold Nanoparticle-based Biosensor, Sensors, 2025, 25, 5293, <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/s25175293">https://doi.org/10.3390/s25175293</a></li> <li>Kao K1 and Alocilja EC3. 2025. A Review of the Diagnostic Approaches for the Detection of Antimicrobial Resistance, including the Role of Biosensors in Detecting Carbapenem Resistance Genes, Genes 2025, 16(7), 794; <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/genes16070794">https://doi.org/10.3390/genes16070794</a></li> <li>Zapater JE, Elegado FB, Suministrado MKC, Merca FE, Aguila MJB, Fernando-Corpuz LM, and Alocilja EC. 2025. Hyperinvasive locus A gene-based electrochemical nanobiosensor for rapid detection of Salmonella enterica in chicken eggshell matrices, Food Research, 9(3):303-311 (June 2025), DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.26656/fr.2017.9(3).368">https://doi.org/10.26656/fr.2017.9(3).368</a></li> <li>Al Hafi L1, Franco AJ1, Kao K1, Alocilja EC3. 2025. Field Guide: Morphometric Visualization and Characterization of Selected Foodborne Pathogens Using Advanced Imaging Techniques, Encyclopedia 2025, 5(2), 47; <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia5020047">https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia5020047</a></li> <li>Mayaka R1 and Alocilja EC3. 2025. Genomic nano-biosensor for rapid detection of carbapenem-resistant gene blaNDM-1 in carbapenemase-producing bacteria, Nanoscale Advances, DOI: 10.1039/D4NA00798K, <a href="https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlepdf/2025/NA/D4NA00798K?page=search">https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlepdf/2025/NA/D4NA00798K?page=search</a></li> <li>Kao K1 and Alocilja EC3. 2025. Parallel Detection of the Unamplified Carbapenem Resistance Genes blaNDM-1 and blaOXA-1 Using a Plasmonic Nano-Biosensor with a Field-Portable DNA Extraction Method, Biosensors 2025, 15, 112. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/bios15020112">https://doi.org/10.3390/bios15020112</a> Paper was selected as the edition cover.</li> <li>Franco JA1 and Alocilja EC3. 2025. Adsorption studies of Salmonella Enteritidis and Escherichia coli on chitosan-coated magnetic nanoparticles, Cells 2025, 14, 225. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/cells14030225">https://doi.org/10.3390/cells14030225</a></li> <li>Sharief S1, Caliskan-Aydogan O1, Alocilja EC3. 2025. Magnetic extraction for rapid assessment of low-level E. coli and Salmonella contamination in complex food matrices, Food Quality and Safety, Vol. 9, 2025, fyaf007, <a href="https://doi.org/10.1093/fqsafe/fyaf007">https://doi.org/10.1093/fqsafe/fyaf007</a></li> <li>Flores MS, Alocilja EC, Amalin DM, Aguila MJB, Purificacion MV, Merca FE, Manuel MCC, Dimamay MPS, Bautista MAB, Fernando LM. 2025. DNA-based Nanobiosensor for the Colorimetric Detection of Dengue Virus Serotype 2 Synthetic Target Oligonucleotide, Biosensors, 2025, 15(2), 71; <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/bios15020071">https://doi.org/10.3390/bios15020071</a></li> <li>Sharma B., H. Kohay, S. Sharma, M. Youngblood, J. Cochran, J. Unrine, O. Tsyusko, G. Lowry, J. P. Giraldo. 2025. Controlled Nitrogen Release by Hydroxyapatite Nanomaterials in Leaves Enhances Plant Growth and Nitrogen Uptake, ACS Nano. 19, 3, 3906–3919. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1021/acsnano.4c16362">https://doi.org/10.1021/acsnano.4c16362</a></li> <li>Azme A., I. Escobar, O. Tsyusko and N. Aich. 2025.Effects of two wet exfoliation strategies on the yield and colloidal behavior of 2D hexagonal boron nitride nanosheets, Nano Express 6. 015011. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1088/2632-959X/adad05">https://doi.org/10.1088/2632-959X/adad05</a></li> <li>Yousaf, M.U.; Madeo Cortarelli, L.; Jebet, N.I.; Unrine, J.M.; Aich, N.; Tsyusko, O.V.; Escobar, I.C. Characterization, Performance, and Toxicological Assessment of Polysulfone-Sulfonated Polyether Ether Ketone Membranes for Water Separation Applications, Membranes 15, 87. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes15030087">https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes15030087</a></li> </ol>

Impact Statements

Research conducted through NC-1194 continued to advance nanotechnology and biosensor applications in food, agriculture, environmental monitoring, and human health. Impacts during this reporting period include: • Development of novel nano-enabled sensing platforms for microbial contaminants, pesticides, PFAS, heavy metals, and environmental pollutants. • Expansion of field-deployable, low-cost biosensor technologies suitable for agricultural and environmental monitoring applications. • Improved understanding of environmental behavior, sustainability, and risk assessment of emerging nanomaterials and nanoplastics. • Advancement of AI, machine learning, and digital agriculture approaches that leverage biosensor-generated datasets and emerging sensing technologies. • Enhanced environmental risk assessment capabilities for nano- and microplastics through the integration of spectroscopy, artificial intelligence, biological monitoring, and ecosystem-level evaluations of nanomaterial interactions. • Advanced sustainable agricultural waste management practices through research on biochar-assisted composting, greenhouse gas mitigation, nutrient retention, and microbial community dynamics. • Increased interdisciplinary collaborations involving engineering, agriculture, food science, environmental sciences, and public health. • Advanced the safe development of the application exploiting novel properties of nanomaterials for PFAS degradation. • Enhanced workforce development through graduate student training, interdisciplinary research experiences, and educational activities spanning biosensors, nanotechnology, and agricultural AI. • Strengthened stakeholder engagement and growing emphasis on technology adoption, implementation, and societal impact.

Date of Annual Report: 10/05/2023

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 08/07/2023 - 08/08/2023
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2022 - 09/30/2023

Participants

Yanbin Li (Arkansas), Jose I Reyes-De-Corcuera (Florida), Daniel Jenkins (Hawaii), Chenxu Yu (Iowa), Olga Tsyusko and Jarad Cochran (Kentucky), Evangelyn Alocilja (Michigan), Mengshi Lin (Missouri), Paul Takhistov (New Jersey), Eric S McLamore (South Carolina), Zhengrong Gu (South Dakota), Anhong Zhou (Utah), Chenming Zhang (Virginia)

Brief Summary of Minutes

Station reports were delivered from each participant describing completed and on-going research.

Administrative updates by Hongda Chen and Steve Lommel where Hongda Chen shared information on the upcoming AFRI funding in 2022/2023 with the cap up to $ 650 K and with additional $150 K available for MSIs, small institutions and EPSCoR, he emphasized that the success rate was at 30% for the new investigator seed grants with a $300 K budget and that there is also a postdoc grant for an independent research available to the students within 6-8 months of their graduation. He encouraged continuation of collaborative committee activities to generate impacts both domestically and internationally, and document the impacts to support the mission of NIFA and multistate hatch programs.

Steve Lommel reminded that the annual report is due within 60 days and that the report should follow abbreviated format (3-page limit) with a stronger emphasis on impacts and products and alignment to societal challenges. He pointed out that continued collaboration and productivity are the key for the future success in the multistate project and conveyed that with better documentation and evidence presentation we could again pursue an opportunity to be nominated for the APLU award.

Zhengrong Gu was elected as Secretary for the 2023-2024 term. Chenxu Yu will become the chair and Anhong Zhou will become the vice-chair for the 2023-2024 term starting immediately after the meeting. The remainder of the meeting was devoted to discussing options for 2024 meeting, collaborations, joined publications, grant applications, and exploring collaboration with another multistate project S1077 “enhancing microbial food safety by risk analysis”. and rewrite a conference proposal co-sponsored by NC1194 and S1077 for NIFA. Full minutes are available at NIMSS website under Reports.

Accomplishments

Contributions to the objectives of this project on its first year are summarized. At least 46 publications associated to the research and listed and the end of this report were published by the NC-1194 group. <ol> <li>Develop new technologies for characterizing fundamental nanoscale processes and fabricate self-assembled nanostructures</li> </ol> Outputs: A novel SERS substrate by electrospinning for the detection of thiabendazole in soy-based foods was developed. The approach combines electrospun substrates and SERS for enhanced sensitivity and selectivity. Spectroscopic imaging methods for analyzing protein-nanoplastics interactions were developed, The results demonstrated a linear relationship between intensity and concentration within the range of 100 to 1000 ppb for the soy sauce sample and 10 to 600 ppb for the soymilk sample, with high coefficient of determination values (99.75% and 99.42%, respectively). The limits of quantification (LOQ) were determined to be 69.9 and 240.59 ppb for soymilk and soy sauce samples, respectively, indicating the sensitivity of the method, while the limits of detection (LOD) were 23.1 ppb for soymilk and 79.4 ppb for soy sauce (MO). Methods to make nanocarriers for drug/vaccine delivery and functional food with enhanced nutritional values and quality were developed (IA). Novel adjuvants that can be incorporated into nanoparticles in vaccine was developed (VT); Differential scanning fluorimetry at high hydrostatic pressure was developed to determine the melting temperature of proteins and better characterize their thermal unfolding mechanism (FL). Electrochemical analyses, including impedance and differential pulse voltammetry, were developed for biomolecule interactions such as DNA chain hybridization in nano-scale, small molecule-hydrogel of biopolymers, and small molecule-2D metal organic films (SD). <ol start="2"> <li>Develop devices and systems incorporating nanotechnology and data-driven analytics for detection of biological/chemical targets, with an emphasis on detection of infectious diseases in plants, animals, humans, and the environment</li> </ol> Outputs: Research on the characterization and understanding of environmental health toxicity and toxicity mechanisms of the various nanomaterials used in agriculture before and after environmental transformations in simple and complex exposure scenarios, such as plant-activated nitrogen nanocarriers to non-targeted soil and microbial communities was conducted, the toxicity and potential applications of the composite membranes with 2D nanomaterials (phosphorene and hexagonal boron nitride) for degradation of the PFAS in drinking water was analyzed. (KY). Methods to better understand and improve the mechanisms of spreading of antibiotic-resistant genes during manure composting were developed (IA). Portable gene-based and immunosensors for rapid and label-free detection of SARS-CoV-2 in saliva were developed (IA, HI). First generation phosphate sensors based on stimulus-response nanobrush electrodes or on carbon nanoparticles, nitrogen sensors based on laser inscribed graphene electrodes, and Listeria spp. as well as Salmonella sensors were developed (SC IA). A novel InvG protein as a potential biosensor for Salmonella spp is being researched (SC FL). The team in MSU developed and validated the SMART biosensor to rapidly extract and detect foodborne pathogens, such as Salmonella enterica, E. coli O157:H7, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus cereus from large-volume complex food and farm samples, such as fresh produce (spinach, broccoli, lettuce), meat (beef, chicken), environmental samples (water), and clinical samples (human isolates). They also developed the African Swine Fever Biosensor to detect ASF in farm settings rapidly. The ASF biosensor is being validated in ASF-infected farm samples by our international collaborators (MI). The Utah State team investigated cellular oxidative stress in response to polystyrene (PS) nanoparticles (PS50 for 50 nm, PS500 for 500 nm, and PS100-NH2 for 100 nm with amino group (UT). Design improvements were made to an open-source potentiostat project (intended to accelerate commercialization of electrochemical based biosensors) to improve performance, and importantly to facilitate multiplexed detection of multiple samples and / or biological targets simultaneously through adaptable switched networks. We also successfully demonstrated a new low-cost microfluidic actuation to enable multiplexed detection of optical based biosensors (i.e. for gene-based diagnostics), for implementation with high quality field tests with built in internal controls. (HI) <ol start="3"> <li>Advance the integration of novel sensor networks, information systems, and artificial intelligence for effective risk assessment and decision support for food security and safety</li> </ol> Outputs: AI-driven spectroscopic imaging techniques for CWD diagnosis was developed (IA). Machine learning (ML) tools were created to analyze Raman spectra to analyze the stresses in cells induced by exposure of nanoplastics (UT). Networks of custom surveillance systems were implemented to monitor traps for invasive beetles, with potential to guide operations to eliminate breeding sites, and identify new invasions at ports of entry (HI). <ol start="4"> <li>Develop and update education and outreach materials on nanofabrication, sensing, systems integration and application risk assessment.</li> </ol> Outputs: The Michigan state team held the 2023 GARD Forum virtually on March 20-26, 2023, which was attended by more than 700 participants from more than 30 countries in six continents. Technical sessions, short courses, and an Innovation Challenge were held during the forum. The team also demonstrated the technology developed by them at the MSU Science Festival in April 2023, and trained two minority students under the Summer Research Opportunity Program (SROP). Short courses on Nanotechnology were taught (NJ, KY), course on biosensors was developed and taught (FL). A REU-site on wearable graphene-based stress biosensor development with community college and high school students starting summer 2021 continued through 2022-2034, and educational tools for inspiring self-stewardship as well as racial inclusiveness were created (IA). <ol start="5"> <li>Increase the number academic-industry partnerships to help move the developed technologies to commercialization phase.</li> </ol> IA station continued working with a IUCRC team to improve academic-industry partnership and develop technologies for soil dynamics to promote commercialization of the technology.

Publications

<ol> <li>Caliskan-Aydogan O1, Sharief S1, and Alocilja EC3. 2023. Rapid Isolation of Low-level Carbapenem-Resistant E. coli from Water and Foods Using Glycan-Coated Magnetic Nanoparticles, Biosensors 2023, 13(10), 902; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios13100902</li> <li>Caliskan-Aydogan O1 and Alocilja EC3. 2023. A Review of Carbapenem Resistance in Enterobacterales and Its Detection Techniques. Microorganisms, 2023, 11(6), 1491; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms11061491</li> <li>Sharief, S. A., Caliskan-Aydogan, O., & Alocilja, E. C. 2023. Carbohydrate-coated nanoparticles for PCR-less genomic detection of Salmonella from fresh produce. Food Control, 150 (2023) 109770</li> <li>Boodoo C1, Dester E1, David J1, Patel V1, Rabin KC, and Alocilja EC3. 2023. Multi-Probe Nano-Genomic Biosensor to Detect S. aureus from Magnetically-Extracted Food Samples, Biosensors, accepted, in press. Biosensors 2023, 13(6), 608</li> <li>Sharief S1, Caliskan-Aydogan O1, Alocilja EC3. 2023. Carbohydrate-coated nanoparticles for PCR-less genomic detection of Salmonella from fresh produce, Food Control, Vol. 150, 109770.</li> <li>Boodoo C1, Dester E1, Sharief S1, and Alocilja EC3. 2023. Influence of Biological and Environmental Factors in the Extraction and Concentration of Foodborne Pathogens using Glycan-Coated Magnetic Nanoparticles,  Journal of Food Protection, 86(4):100066.</li> <li>Sharief SA1, Caliskan-Aydogan O1, and Alocilja EC3. 2023. Carbohydrate-coated nanoparticles for point-of-use food contamination testing, Biosensors and Bioelectronics: X, 13 (2023), 100322, 9 pp.</li> <li>Bhattarai RK1,3, Basnet HB, Dhakal IP, Alocilja E. 2023. Virulence genes of avian pathogenic Escherichia coli isolated from commercial chicken in Nepal, Comparative Immunology, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 95 (2023) 101961,</li> <li>Caliskan-Aydogan O1, Sharief S1, and Alocilja EC3. 2023. Nanoparticle-Based Plasmonic Biosensor for the Unamplified Genomic Detection of Carbapenem-Resistant Bacteria, Diagnostics, Diagnostics 2023, 13(4), 656</li> <li>Yuanzhi Bian, Debra L. Walter, Chenming Zhang. Efficiency of interferon-γ in activating dendritic cells and its potential synergy with toll-like receptor agonists. Viruses (MDPI). 2023, 15, 1198.doi.org/10.3390/v15051198.</li> <li>Hajikhani, M., Zhang, Y., Gao, X., Lin, M. 2023. Advances in CRISPR-based SERS detection of food contaminants: A review. Trends Food Sci. Technol. 138, 615-627.</li> <li>Wang, W., Yu, Z., Lin, M., Mustapha, A. 2023. Toxicity of silver nanoparticle incorporated-bacterial nanocellulose to human cells and intestinal bacteria. Int. J. Biol. Macromol. 241, 124705.</li> <li>Weng, Z., You, Z., Li, H., Wu, G., Song, Y., Sun, H., Fradlin, A., Neal-Harris, C., Lin, M., Gao, X., Zhang, Y. 2023. CRISPR-Cas12a biosensor array for ultrasensitive detection of unamplified DNA with single-nucleotide polymorphic discrimination. ACS Sensors. 8(4), 1489-1499.</li> <li>Asgari, S., Dhital, R., Mustapha, A., Lin, M. 2022. Duplex detection of foodborne pathogens using a SERS optofluidic sensor coupled with immunoassay. Int. J. Food Microbiol. 383, 109947.</li> <li>Hajikhani, M., Lin, M. 2022. A review on designing nanofibers with high porous and rough surface via electrospinning technology for rapid detection of food quality and safety attributes. Trends Food Sci. Technol. 128, 118-128.</li> <li>Asgari, S., Dhital, R., Ali Aghvami, S., Mustapha, A., Zhang, Y., Lin, M. 2022. Separation and detection of E. coli O157:H7 using a SERS-based microfluidic immunosensor. Microchimica Acta. 189, 111.</li> <li>Diehl, M., Kang, M.J., Reyes-De-Corcuera, J.I.* (2023) Effect of high-pressure technologies on enzymes used in nonfood processing applications in Effect of High-Pressure Technologies on Enzymes, Leite Júnior, B. and Tribst, A., Editors. Academic Press, 405-424.</li> <li>Tong T,* Qi Y, Bussiere L, Dhar D, Miller C, Yu C, Wang Q, Rational Design of Oral Vaccines by Gut Organoid Mucosal Models, Bioactive Materials, 2023, 30, 116-128, <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.07.014">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.07.014</a></li> <li>Zhao M, Cao X, Wu Y, Zou S, Li Z, Lin X, Ji C, Dong L, Zhang S, Yu C, Liang H, Effects of prebiotics on the fermentation of traditional suancai of Northeast China, Food Science and Human Wellness, 2023, <a href="https://doi.org/10.26599/FSHW.2022.9250114">https://doi.org/10.26599/FSHW.2022.9250114</a></li> <li>Zhou Y, Zheng J, Zhao J, Li S, Xing J, Ai C, Yu C, Yang S, Yang J, Oxygenated storage alleviates autolysis of the sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus during transport. Aquaculture International, 2023. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s10499-023-01108-5">https://doi.org/10.1007/s10499-023-01108-5</a></li> <li>Zhang W, Yu C, Yin S, Chang K, Chen K, Xing Y, Yang Y, Transmission and retention of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in chicken and sheep manure composting, Bioresource Technology, 382, 129190, 2023. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biortech.2023.129190">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biortech.2023.129190</a></li> <li>Wang Z, Yu X*, Zhao W, Wang Y, Li S, Yu C, Dong X, 3D printability of sturgeon paste as affected by colloid milling. Journal of Food Engineering, 346, 111429, 2023, <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfoodeng.2023.111429">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfoodeng.2023.111429</a></li> <li>Chen KS, Yu C, Cai L, Zhang W, Xing Y, Yang Y, Bacterial community succession in aerobic-anaerobic-coupled and aerobic composting with mown hay affected C and N losses, Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 2023, <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-023-27572-3">https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-023-27572-3</a></li> <li>He Q*, Tong TJ*, Yu C and Wang Q, Advances in Algin and Alginate-Hybrid Materials for Drug Delivery and Tissue Engineering, Marine Drugs, 21(1), 14, 2023, <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/md21010014">https://doi.org/10.3390/md21010014</a></li> <li>Leng L, Zou H, Wang Y, Yu C, Qi H, Seaweed Slurry Improved Gel Properties and Enhanced Protein Structure of Silver Carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) Surimi, Foods, 11(19), 3115, 2022, <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/foods11193115">https://doi.org/10.3390/foods11193115</a></li> <li>Liu Y*, Wang Z, Huang Y, Konno K, Tong T*, Yu C, Zhu B, Dong X, Characteristic stable structure of the myosin rod in dark muscle of yellowtail kingfish (Seriola aureovittata), International Journal of Food Science and Technology, 2022, <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/ijfs.16146">https://doi.org/10.1111/ijfs.16146</a></li> </ol>

Impact Statements

Our research has increased our understanding of the effects of HHP on enzyme stability from the structural perspective. This new knowledge will serve as the foundation for the stabilization of glucose and alcohol bio-sensors.

Date of Annual Report: 10/21/2024

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 07/17/2024 - 07/18/2024
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2023 - 09/30/2024

Participants

Jose I Reyes-De-Corcuera (Florida), Jeong-Yeol Yoon (Arizona), Chenxu Yu (Iowa), Olga Tsyusko and Jarad Cochran (Kentucky), Ranee Anderson and Sam Nugen (Cornell), Evangelyn Alocilja (Michigan), Mengshi Lin (Missouri), Yi-Cheng Wang (Illinois), Sundaram Gunasekaran (Wisconsin), Anhong Zhou (Utah)

Brief Summary of Minutes

Station reports were delivered from each participant describing completed and on-going research.

Administrative updates by Hongda Chen and Amy Gruden (on behalf of Steve Lommel). Hongda Chen gave an overview of NIFA investments in nanotechnology R&D and education from 2003 through 2024, and fiscal 2025 plans and priorities including Nanotechnology for Agricultural and Food (Priority A1511) and Social Implications of Food and Agricultural Technologies (Priority A1642). He also highlighted key NIFA accomplishments for National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) goals, particularly Goal#4, 2, 3. He covered the Gordon Research Conference (GRC) – Nanoscale Science and Engineering for Agriculture and Food Systems on June 22-28, 2024, which was chaired by NC1194 member Dr. Carmen Gomes from Iowa State University. Finally, he gave some thoughts for NC-1194 discussion during the meeting, including recruiting initiative to bring more potential new members, exploring attending other multistate projects (e.g., S1077 Enhancing Microbial Food Safety by Risk Analysis) to discuss potential collaborations, approaches for commercialization of nano sensors, and enhancing research on micro- and nanoplastics. He suggested future meeting in conjunction with other professional meetings, such GRC IBE, and so on.

Amy Gruden reminded that this NC-1194 project expires September 2026, and it typically takes one year to start the preparation of renewal submission. Amy passed Steve Lommel’s message to remind the election of new officers. Steve encouraged NC-1194 group to resubmit the application of the North Central Regional Association’s (NCRA) Multistate Research award in the coming year. Steve also encouraged the NC-1194 to work with other multi-state group, especially food safety group.

The meeting was organized by current Chair Chenxu Yu and completed the election of officers for the 2024-2025 starting immediately after the meeting: Anhong Zhou as the Chair, Zhengrong Gu as the Vice-Chair, Yi-Cheng Wang as the Secretary. The remainder of the meeting was devoted to discussing options for 2025 meeting (tentatively August 11-12 in Salt Lake City, UT), collaborations, joint publications, grant applications, and exploring collaboration with another multistate project S1077 “enhancing microbial food safety by risk analysis”. and rewrite a conference proposal co-sponsored by NC1194 and S1077 for NIFA. Full minutes are available at NIMSS website under Reports.

Lommel, Steve (slommel@ncsu.edu) – North Carolina State University / project administrator; Chen, Hongda (hongda.chen@usda.gov) – USDA-NIFA.

Accomplishments

Contributions to the objectives of this project on its first year are summarized. At least 49 publications last year associated to the research and listed and the end of this report were published by the NC-1194 group. <ol> <li>Develop new technologies for characterizing fundamental nanoscale processes and fabricate self-assembled nanostructures</li> </ol> Outputs: Spectroscopic imaging methods for analyzing protein-nanoplastics interactions were developed, and methods to better understand the soil amendment mechanisms to reduce continuous cropping obstacle for potato were applied (IA). SERS-based nanosensor was developed by molecular self-assembly approaches to detect four pesticides, thiabendazole, thiram, endosulfan, malathion, at the limits of detection (LOD) of 44-88 µg/kg strawberry extract (MO). Nanocarriers for drug/vaccine delivery and functional food with enhanced nutritional values and quality were developed (IA). Novel nanoparticles-based adjuvants for vaccine to treat porcine epidemic diarrhea virus was developed (VT). Electrospun nanofiber-based electrochemical biosensor was developed to detect multiple agriculture related targets (WI). A novel electrochemical biosensor platforms using graphene coated magnetic nanoparticles or microfluidic chips were designed and fabricated for detection of infectious pathogens such as wine influenza A and penicillin-resistant Salmonella with rapid response (< 30 min), high sensitivity (10-19 mol/L, equal to 100 pathogen/ml) and fast detection (< 30 min) of the target DNA or RNA of pathogens (SD). <ol start="2"> <li>Develop devices and systems incorporating nanotechnology and data-driven analytics for detection of biological/chemical targets, with an emphasis on detection of infectious diseases in plants, animals, humans, and the environment</li> </ol> Outputs: Research on the characterization and understanding of environmental health toxicity and toxicity mechanisms of the various nanomaterials used in agriculture before and after environmental transformations. Transformation, interaction, and toxicity of emerging 2D nanomaterials free-standing and embedded onto nanocomposite membranes for PFAS degradation were explored. Zn- and Fe-dopped hydroxyapatite nanoparticles for nitrogen delivery was developed in a safety-by-design approached (KY). Methods to better understand and improve the mechanisms of spreading of antibiotic-resistant genes during manure composting were developed (IA). Portable gene-based and immunosensors for rapid and label-free detection of SARS-CoV-2 in saliva were developed (IA). First generation phosphate sensors based on stimulus-response nanobrush electrodes or on carbon nanoparticles, nitrogen sensors based on laser inscribed graphene electrodes, and Listeria spp. as well as Salmonella sensors were developed (IA). Sensor-based technologies were developed to monitor antibiotic-resistant bacteria during fresh produce production using Municipal Wastewater Effluents (IA). The concentration of nano/microplastics was quantified in 132 Iowa lakes, identified the impact of the presence of bioturbators (e.g. midge fly larvae) on the behavior and distribution of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems, and assessed the impact of nanoplastics on the development of Drosophila (IA). The team in MSU developed and validated the SMART biosensor to rapidly extract and detect foodborne pathogens, such as Salmonella enterica, E. coli O157:H7, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus cereus from large-volume complex food and farm samples, such as turkey and chicken meats, rinsates from turkey and chicken processing plants, poultry manure, and cattle manure. They also developed the African Swine Fever Biosensor to detect ASF in farm settings rapidly. The ASF biosensor is being validated in ASF-infected farm samples by our international collaborators (MI). The Utah State team investigated cellular oxidative stress in response to polystyrene (PS) nanoparticles (PS50 for 50 nm, PS500 for 500 nm, and PS100-NH2 for 100 nm with amino group (UT). A novel concept of using a set of biomolecules and subsequent ML classification has been proposed and successfully demonstrated for detecting environmental toxicants, including microplastics, nanoplastics, and PFAS, from various environmental samples (aerosols, particulate matter, soil, and wastewater). This method was also demonstrated for identifying the lung disease biomarker (eNAMPT) from human blood plasma samples. A smartphone-based multi-spectral fluorescence imaging system was designed, fabricated, and demonstrated for detecting microalgae from seawater and microbiota from field soil samples (AZ). A CRISPR-based biosensor was developed to detection of antimicrobial-resistant genes in Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (IL). The engineering of bacteriophages was developed for isolation, concentration and detection of Salmonella in agriculture water (NY). <ol start="3"> <li>Advance the integration of novel sensor networks, information systems, and artificial intelligence for effective risk assessment and decision support for food security and safety</li> </ol> Outputs: A new textbook on machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) in chemical and biological sensing published by Elsevier in 2024 was jointly edited by NC1194 members Chenxu Yu (IA) and Jeong-Yeol Yoon (AZ). A smartphone-based multi-spectral fluorescence imaging technology was developed for detection of microalgae and soil microbiota (AZ). ML-based SERSFormer technology was recently developed to highly sensitively and specifically detect pesticides in various agricultural samples (MO). Machine learning (ML) tools were created to analyze Raman spectra to determine the cellular oxidative stresses induced by exposure of nanoplastics (UT). An intelligent packaging technology for food quality monitoring was developed (IL). <ol start="4"> <li>Develop and update education and outreach materials on nanofabrication, sensing, systems integration and application risk assessment.</li> </ol> Outputs: The Michigan state team continued hosting the 2024 GARD Forum virtually on March 14-16, 2024, with >700 registered participants from 39 countries in six continents. Technical sessions, short courses, and an Innovation Challenge were held during the forum with involvement of 35 teams that led to 6 finalists. The team also demonstrated the technology developed by them at the MSU Science Festival in April 2024. Short courses on Nanotechnology were taught (KY), course on biosensors was developed and taught (FL). A REU-site on wearable graphene-based stress biosensor development with community college and high school students starting summer 2021 continued through 2023-2024 (IA). A USDA conference grant “One Health” was awarded to the team (IA) to support the 2024 Annual Institute of Biological Engineering (IBE) conference in Atlanta, GA on September 14-15, 2024. <ol start="5"> <li>Increase the number academic-industry partnerships to help move the developed technologies to commercialization phase.</li> </ol> IA station continued working with an NSF-funded IUCRC team to improve academic-industry partnership and develop technologies for soil dynamics to promote commercialization of the technology (IA). The biosensors developed by MSU team (MI) has initiated the connections with the local turkey and chicken industry.

Publications

<ol> <li>Yan Liang, Bradley Khanthaphixay, Jocelyn Reynolds, Preston J. Leigh, Melissa L. Lim, and Jeong-Yeol Yoon, "A Smartphone-Based Approach for Comprehensive Soil Microbiome Profiling," Applied Physics Reviews, 2024, 11(3): 031412.</li> <li>Jeong-Yeol Yoon and Chenxu Yu, Editors, "Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence in Chemical and Biological Sensing," Elsevier: Amsterdam/London/Cambridge, 2024, ISBN: 978-0-443-22001-2 (paperback), 978-0-443-22000-5 (eBook).</li> <li>Jeong-Yeol Yoon, "Chapter 10 - ML-Assisted Biosensors Utilizing a Set of Biological Polymers," in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence in Chemical and Biological Sensing, Editors: Jeong-Yeol Yoon and Chenxu Yu, Elsevier: Amsterdam/London/Cambridge, 2024, pp.259-274.</li> <li>Chenxu Yu and Jeong-Yeol Yoon, "Chapter 4 - ML-Assisted E-Nose and Gas Sensors," in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence in Chemical and Biological Sensing, Editors: Jeong-Yeol Yoon and Chenxu Yu, Elsevier: Amsterdam/London/Cambridge, 2024, pp.83-112.</li> <li>Jeong-Yeol Yoon, "Chapter 3 - Use of ML/AI in Chemical Sensors and Biosensors," in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence in Chemical and Biological Sensing, Editors: Jeong-Yeol Yoon and Chenxu Yu, Elsevier: Amsterdam/London/Cambridge, 2024, pp.71-81.</li> <li>Yan Liang and Jeong-Yeol Yoon, "Chapter 2 - Fundamentals of Machine Learning," in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence in Chemical and Biological Sensing, Editors: Jeong-Yeol Yoon and Chenxu Yu, Elsevier: Amsterdam/London/Cambridge, 2024, pp.23-70.</li> <li>Yan Liang and Jeong-Yeol Yoon, "Sensors for Blood Brain Barrier on a Chip," Vitamins and Hormones, 2024, 126, 219-240.</li> <li>Bailey C. Buchanan, Yisha Tang, Hannah A. Lopez, Nancy G. Casanova, Joe G.N. Garcia, and Jeong-Yeol Yoon, "Development of a Cloud-Based Flow Rate Tool for eNAMPT Biomarker Detection," PNAS Nexus, 2024, 3(5): pgae173.</li> <li>Chloe Thomas, Togzhan Spatayeva, Dawon Yu, Andrew Loh, Un Hyuk Yim, and Jeong-Yeol Yoon, "A Comparison of Current Analytical Methods for Detecting Particulate Matter and Micro/Nanoplastics," Applied Physics Reviews, 2024, 11(1): 011313.</li> <li>Sinyang Kim, Katelyn Sosnowski, Dong Soo Hwang, and Jeong-Yeol Yoon, "Smartphone-Based Microalgae Monitoring Platform Using Machine Learning," ACS ES&T Engineering, 2024, 4(1): 186-195.</li> <li>Tyler Hertenstein, Yisha Tang, Alexander S. Day, Jocelyn Reynolds, Patrick V. Viboolmate, and Jeong-Yeol Yoon, "Rapid and Sensitive Detection of miRNA Via Light Scatter-Aided Emulsion-Based Isothermal Amplification Using a Custom Low-Cost Device," Biosensors and Bioelectronics, 2023, 237: 115444.</li> <li>Yang J, Yu, XL, Dong XP, Yu C, Improvement of surimi gel from frozen stored silver carp, Gels, 10(6), 374, 2024, <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10060374">https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10060374</a></li> <li>Xing Y, Zhang P, Zhang W, Yu C, Luo Z, Continuous cropping of potato changed the metabolic pathway of root exudates to drive rhizosphere microflora, Frontiers in Microbiology, 14, 1318586, 2024, <a href="https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2023.1318586">https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2023.1318586</a></li> <li>Tong T, Qi Y, Bussiere L, Dhar D, Miller C, Yu C, Wang Q, Rational Design of Oral Vaccines by Gut Organoid Mucosal Models, Bioactive Materials, 2023, 30, 116-128, <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.07.014">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.07.014</a></li> <li>Zhao M, Cao X, Wu Y, Zou S, Li Z, Lin X, Ji C, Dong L, Zhang S, Yu C, Liang H, Effects of prebiotics on the fermentation of traditional suancai of Northeast China, Food Science and Human Wellness, 2023, <a href="https://doi.org/10.26599/FSHW.2022.9250114">https://doi.org/10.26599/FSHW.2022.9250114</a></li> <li>Zhang W, Yu C, Yin S, Chang K, Chen K, Xing Y, Yang Y, Transmission and retention of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in chicken and sheep manure composting, Bioresource Technology, 382, 129190, 2023,. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biortech.2023.129190">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biortech.2023.129190</a></li> <li>He Q, Habib F, Tong T, Yu C, Raman Spectroscopy for Detection of Foodborne Pathogens, Chemical Contaminants and Nanoparticles, in Encyclopedia of Food Safety, edited by Byron Brehm-Stecher, Elsevier, 2024.</li> <li>Roque JV, Pola CC, Terra LR, Oliveira TV, Teofilo RF, Gomes CL, Soares NFF, Mapping the Distribution of Additives Within Polymer Films Through Near-Infrared Spectroscopy and Hyperspectral Imaging, in Food Packaging Materials: Current Protocols, pp 183-203. 2024</li> <li>Qian H, Moreira G, Vanegas D, Tang Y, Pola C, Gomes C, McLamore E, Bliznyuk N, Improving high throughput manufacture of laser-inscribed graphene electrodes via hierarchical clustering, Scientific Reports, 1, 7980, 2024</li> <li>Beata M Szydlowska, Cícero C Pola, Zizhen Cai, Lindsay E Chaney, Janan Hui, Robert Sheets, Jeremiah Carpenter, Delphine Dean, Jonathan C Claussen, Carmen L Gomes, Mark C Hersam, Biolayer-Interferometry-Guided Functionalization of Screen-Printed Graphene for Label-Free Electrochemical Virus Detection, ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, 16(19), 25169-25180, 2024</li> <li>Sara L Silvestre, Maria Morais, Raquel RA Soares, Zachary T Johnson, Eric Benson, Elisabeth Ainsley, Veronica Pham, Jonathan C Claussen, Carmen L Gomes, Rodrigo Martins, Elvira Fortunato, Luis Pereira, João Coelho, Green Fabrication of Stackable Laser‐Induced Graphene Micro‐Supercapacitors under Ambient Conditions: Toward the Design of Truly Sustainable Technological Platforms, Advanced Materials Technologies, 2400261, 2024</li> <li>J Claussen, J Hondred, Enhanced 3D porous architectured electroactive devices via impregnated porogens, US Patent 11,971,383</li> <li>Nathan M Jared, Zachary T Johnson, Cicero C Pola, Kristi K Bez, Krishangee Bez, Shelby L Hooe, Joyce C Breger, Emily A Smith, Igor L Medintz, Nathan M Neihart, Jonathan C Claussen, Biomimetic laser-induced graphene fern leaf and enzymatic biosensor for pesticide spray collection and monitoring, Nanoscale Horizons, 9(9), 1543-1556, 2024</li> <li>Jelena Stanković, Djuradj Milo&scaron;ević, Momir Paunović, Boris Jovanović, Nata&scaron;a Popović, Jelena Tomović, Ana Atanacković, Katarina Radulović, Davor Lončarević, Maja Raković, Microplastics in the Danube River and Its Main Tributaries—Ingestion by Freshwater Macroinvertebrates, Water, 16(7), 962, 2024</li> <li>Khouloud Sebteoui, Djuradj Milo&scaron;ević, Jelena Stanković, Viktor Baranov, Boris Jovanović, Stefan Krause, Zoltán Csabai, Beneath the surface: Decoding the impact of Chironomus riparius bioturbation on microplastic dispersion in sedimentary matrix, Science of the Total Environment, 919, 170844, 2024</li> <li>Alyssa M Hohman, Rachel Sorenson, Boris Jovanovic, Elizabeth McNeill, The heart of plastic: utilizing the Drosophila model to investigate the effects of micro/nanoplastics on heart function, Frontiers in Toxicology, 6, 1438061, 2024</li> <li>Rachel M Sorensen, Dimitrija Savić-Zdravković, Boris Jovanović, Changes in the wing shape and size in fruit flies exposed to micro and nanoplastics, Chemosphere, 363, 142821, 2024.</li> <li>Ghazy A, Nyarku R, Faraj R, Bentum K, Woube Y, Williams M, Alocilja E, and Abebe W. 2024. Gold Nanoparticle-based Plasmonic Detection of Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica, Campylobacter jejuni, and Listeria monocytogenes from bovine fecal Samples, Microorganisms, 12, 1069. </li> <li>Caliskan-Aydogan1 O, Zaborney Kline C1, and Alocilja EC3. 2024. Cell Morphology as Biomarker of Carbapenem Exposure, Journal of Antibiotics, 77, pages 600–611 (2024).</li> <li>Caliskan-Aydogan1 O and Alocilja EC3. 2024. A Parallel biosensor platform for the detection of carbapenemase-producing coli in spiked food and water samples, Food Control, Vol. 163, 110485.</li> <li>Caliskan-Aydogan O1, Sharief S1, and Alocilja EC3. 2023. Rapid Isolation of Low-level Carbapenem-Resistant E. coli from Water and Foods Using Glycan-Coated Magnetic Nanoparticles, Biosensors 2023, 13(10), 902.</li> <li>Caliskan-Aydogan O1 and Alocilja EC3. 2023. A Review of Carbapenem Resistance in Enterobacterales and Its Detection Techniques. Microorganisms, 2023, 11(6), 1491.</li> <li>Boodoo C1, Dester E1, David J1, Patel V1, Rabin KC, and Alocilja EC3. 2023. Multi-Probe Nano-Genomic Biosensor to Detect aureus from Magnetically-Extracted Food Samples, Biosensors, 2023, 13(6), 608, https://doi.org/10.3390/bios13060608.</li> <li>Sharief S1, Caliskan-Aydogan O1, Alocilja EC3. 2023. Carbohydrate-coated nanoparticles for PCR-less genomic detection of Salmonella from fresh produce, Food Control, Vol. 150, 109770.</li> <li>Boodoo C1, Dester E1, Sharief S1, and Alocilja EC3. 2023. Influence of Biological and Environmental Factors in the Extraction and Concentration of Foodborne Pathogens using Glycan-Coated Magnetic Nanoparticles, Journal of Food Protection, 86(4):100066.</li> <li>Sharief SA1, Caliskan-Aydogan O1, and Alocilja EC3. 2023. Carbohydrate-coated nanoparticles for point-of-use food contamination testing, Biosensors and Bioelectronics: X, 13 (2023), 100322, 9 pp.</li> <li>Bhattarai RK1,3, Basnet HB, Dhakal IP, Alocilja E. 2023. Virulence genes of avian pathogenic Escherichia coli isolated from commercial chicken in Nepal, Comparative Immunology, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 95 (2023) 101961.</li> <li>Caliskan-Aydogan O1, Sharief S1, and Alocilja EC3. 2023. Nanoparticle-Based Plasmonic Biosensor for the Unamplified Genomic Detection of Carbapenem-Resistant Bacteria, Diagnostics, 2023, 13(4), 656.</li> <li>Hajikhani, M., Hegde, A., Snyder, J., Cheng, J., Lin, M. 2024. Integrating transformer-based machine learning with SERS technology for the analysis of hazardous pesticides in spinach. Hazard. Mater. 470, 134208.</li> <li>Hajikhani, M., Kousheh, S., Lin, M. 2024. Design of a novel SERS substrate by electrospinning for the detection of thiabendazole in soy-based foods. Food Chem. 436, 137703.</li> <li>Zhai, K., Sun, L., Nguyen, T., Lin, M. 2024. Facile synthesis of gold nanostars for duplex detection of pesticide residues in grapes using SERS. Food Sci. 89, 2512-2521.</li> <li>Alsammarraie, F. K., Lin, M., Mustapha, A. 2023. Green synthesis of silver nanomaterials and evaluation of their antibacterial and antioxidant effectiveness in chicken meat. Food Biosci. 56, 103332.</li> <li>Hajikhani, M., Zhang, Y., Gao, X., Lin, M. 2023. Advances in CRISPR-based SERS detection of food contaminants: A review. Trends Food Sci. Technol. 138, 615-627.</li> <li>Wang, W., Yu, Z., Lin, M., Mustapha, A. 2023. Toxicity of silver nanoparticle incorporated-bacterial nanocellulose to human cells and intestinal bacteria.  J. Biol. Macromol. 241, 124705.</li> <li>Weng, Z., You, Z., Li, H., Wu, G., Song, Y., Sun, H., Fradlin, A., Neal-Harris, C., Lin, M., Gao, X., Zhang, Y. 2023. CRISPR-Cas12a biosensor array for ultrasensitive detection of unamplified DNA with single-nucleotide polymorphic discrimination. ACS Sensors. 8(4), 1489-1499.</li> <li>M Liang, L Yuan, C Shao, X Zheng, Q Song, Z Gu, S Lu; 2023, Sequential Visual Sensing of H2O2 and GSH Based on Fluorescent Copper Nanoclusters Incorporated Eggshell Membrane, IEEE Sensors Journal (accepted)</li> <li>Liang, T. Schaffer, A. Sobhan, M. Biesecker, Z. Yang, C. Han, J. Hu, A. Smirnova, Z. Gu, 2023, 3D Cu Pyramid Array Grown on Planar Cu Foil for Stable and Dendrite–Free Lithium Deposition, Materials Science Vol.29 No.4, 2023 (accepted)</li> <li>Y Liang, W Ding, B Yao, F Zheng, A Smirnova, Z Gu, 2023, Mediating Lithium Plating/Stripping by Constructing 3D Au@ Cu Pentagonal Pyramid Array, Batteries 9 (5), 279</li> <li>Yuanzhi Bian,* Debra L. Walter,* Chenming Zhang. Efficiency of interferon-γ in activating dendritic cells and its potential synergy with toll-like receptor agonists. Viruses (MDPI). 2023, 15, 1198. doi.org/10.3390/v15051198.</li> </ol>

Impact Statements

The research carried out by the group increased the understanding of nanotechnology and biosensors by the general public by bringing greater awareness of their current and potential roles in food and agriculture. At least 6 postdocs, 28 PhD students, 9 MS students, 25 undergraduate students, and 1 visiting scholar participated in this project. 1. Fabrication of high-performance substrates for SERS via electrospinning with self-assembly was achieved to successful detection of pesticides in foods with improved sensitivity and specificity (MO). 2. Several cross-country and cross-continent collaborations were formed through the GARD. The GARD-Asia-Africa Initiative (GARD-AAI) conducted workshops on nanotechnology and biosensors attended by scientists from both continents (MI). 3. We trained four female undergraduates and two minority students under the Summer Research Opportunity Program (SROP), a gateway to graduate education at Big Ten Academic Alliance universities, whose goal is to increase the number of underrepresented students to pursue graduate study and research careers. We also trained one minority student under the Engineering Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (EnSURE), an "internship in graduate school" program that provides participants an early opportunity to participate in research by working with faculty mentors. These students presented their work at the 2024 Mid-SURE event, where they learned the skills of public engagement and articulated the potential impact of their work on society’s real needs (MI). We demonstrated our Raman measurement of living cells exposed to nanoplastics to four native American college students (UT). 4. We also demonstrated our Salmonella biosensor to staff from the Michigan Turkey Producers and the Miller Poultry. These stakeholders received attention to nanotechnology-enabled biosensors that are capable of rapidly inform and control Salmonella contamination in turkey and chicken production systems (MI). 5. Study of adjuvants that can enhance the efficacy of nanovaccines would greatly reduce porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) (VT). 6. Our research has increased our understanding of the effects of HHP on enzyme stability from the structural perspective (FL). This new knowledge will serve as the foundation for the stabilization of enzyme-based biosensors. 7. We designed, developed, and tested a smartphone-based multi-spectral fluorescence imaging system for detection of microalgae from seawater and microbiota from field soil samples (AZ) 8. We developed different biosensor technologies and methods for micro- and nanoplastics (including PFAS) detection and cells-MNPs interaction induced toxicity (IA, AZ, UT, KY) 9. We developed and validated novel electrochemical biosensor platforms that use graphene coated magnetic nanoparticles or microfluidic chips to detect DNA of specific microbes (SD) Outcomes Participants at MSU Received funding from the Michigan Alliance for Animal Agriculture on “Optimizing a nano-biosensor for rapid detection of the African swine fever and from the MSU AgBioResearch for a project on “Development of a Biosensing System for Rapid and Integrated Genome-to-Phenome Antimicrobial Resistance Testing (BRIGHT)”. AZ group received university’s One Health Initiative for a project entitled “Machine learning- and paper microfluidic-based classification of nanoplastics and identification of biologically interacting molecules from soil, plant, animal, and human samples”. Through an NSF funded IUCRC grant, the team from IA is collaborating with the researchers from Univ. of Florida, Univ. of Connecticut, Univ. of Washington, and Univ. of South California to develop soil dynamics technologies. UT team received funding from USDA-ARS Forage and Range Research Laboratory (FRRL) to conduct chemical composition analysis of wheat lines with salt tolerance. The SD team received funding from NASA-EPSCoR, NSF-EPSCOR, Sun Grant (North Central Center), South Dakota Oilseeds Initiative, South Dakota Oilseeds Council, South Dakota Beef Industrial Council, and USDA-NIFA.

Date of Annual Report: 11/08/2025

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 09/10/2025 - 09/11/2025
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2024 - 09/30/2025

Participants

In-person participants: Jeong-Yeol Yoon (Arizona); Jose I Reyes-De-Corcuera (Florida), Yi-Cheng Wang (Illinois); Chenxu Yu (Iowa); Olga Tsyusko (Kentucky), Evangelyn Alocilja (Michigan); Anhong Zhou (Utah); Sundaram Gunasekaran (Wisconsin)

Remote participants: James Dobrowolski (USDA); Steve Lommel (North Carolina State University/project administrator); Amie Norton (Kansas); Mengshi Lin (Missouri); Chenming (Mike) Zhang (Virginia)

Brief Summary of Minutes

The meeting was organized by the current committee chair, Anhong Zhou. Each participant delivered a station report describing completed and ongoing research.

Administrative updates were provided by James Dobrowolski of USDA-NIFA and project administrator Steve Lommel (NC Station). Dr. Dobrowolski gave an overview of NIFA’s mission, vision, leadership, and 2024 budget. He also summarized NIFA’s investments in nanotechnology R&D and education from 2003 through 2024, highlighted NIFA’s fiscal year 2025-26 plans, and explained the priorities of the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) Program Component Areas. Among others, the mentioned funding opportunities relevant to nanotechnology within the NIFA AFRI Foundational and Applied Science Program notably included Nanotechnology for Agricultural and Food Systems (A1511) and Social Implications of Food and Agricultural Technologies (A1642). Finally, Dr. Dobrowolski provided an update on the current funding situation and answered questions from members of NC-1194. Dr. Lommel provided an update on Hatch funding and reminded the group that the renewal proposal for the 2026-31 multistate project is due on December 1, 2025. He described the proposal-review process, shared his thoughts on proposal development, and encouraged the team to coordinate proposal writing during the annual meeting.

The above-mentioned presentations were followed by the election of officers for 2025-26, i.e., Yi-Cheng Wang (IL) as the chair, Amie Norton (KS) as the vice-chair, and Diana Vanegas Gamboa (SC) as the secretary, all of whom took up their posts immediately. The remainder of the meeting focused on planning for the renewal proposal; potential collaborations, joint publications, and grant applications; options for the 2026 meeting; and the potential resubmission of a conference proposal to NIFA. Full meeting minutes are available on the NIMSS website under Reports.

Accomplishments

The accomplishments of the NC-1194 group during the reporting period in relation to each of this project’s objectives are summarized below. Publications associated with this project and authored by members of the NC-1194 group are listed at the end of this report. Objective 1: Develop new technologies for characterizing fundamental nanoscale processes and fabricate self-assembled nanostructures Outputs: A scalable emulsion-based nanogel system was developed and optimized for fluopyram delivery to improve red crown rot control in soybeans (IL). Spectroscopic imaging methods were developed to analyze interactions between protein and nano-plastics, along with approaches to better understand soil-amendment mechanisms that can be expected to reduce continuous-cropping obstacles in potatoes (IA). In addition, new methods for environmental monitoring and risk assessment of nano- and microplastics were established (IA). Nano-formulated antibiotics and essential oils were developed, and demonstrated significantly greater efficacy than their non-nano counterparts against citrus greening and fungal dis-eases of tomato, leading to enhanced fruit production and reduced leaf-infection severity (IN). Various nanocarriers—including electro-responsive PEDOT nanoparticles, and solid lipid nanoparticles—were developed for topical and/or transdermal delivery of bioactive molecules for therapeutic applications (MS). The relationship between high hydrostatic pressure processing and enzyme structure, as well as the correlation between enzyme cavity size and pressure- or temperature-induced inactivation, has also been investigated (FL). Advances were also made in the fabrication and performance of laser-induced graphene and microfluidic nanostructures (SC). Hierarchical clustering approaches were developed for high-throughput laser-induced graphene electrode fabrication, and fundamental studies conducted on electrokinetic and dielectrophoretic transport in microchannels (SC). A fabrication process for lipid/polymer hybrid nanoparticles was developed, and the in vivo toxicity of their nanostructure studied (VA). A biofilter to agglomerate and capture extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli was developed by electrospinning a mixture of cranberry proanthocyanidin and polycaprolactone (WI). Objective 2:  Develop devices and systems incorporating nanotechnology and data-driven analytics for detection of biological/chemical targets, with an emphasis on detection of infectious diseases in plants, animals, humans, and the environment Outputs: Nanomaterials-based intelligent packaging for food-quality monitoring (IL) and functional foods incorporating controlled nutrient-delivery systems were developed (IA). AI-driven diagnostics, portable COVID-19 immunosensors, laser-induced graphene-based environmental biosensors, and chitosan-platinum systems for pathogen detection represented important advancements in sensing (IA, SC). New biosensors based on various mechanisms and platforms (e.g., surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, smartphones, and triboelectric-, colorimetric-, fluorometric-, and electrochemical-based approaches) were also created for the detection of Salmonella, Listeria, pesticides, heavy metals, porcine epidemic diarrhea virus, and E. coli, among other targets (AZ, IA, IL, KS, MS, MI, MO, SC, VA, WI). Additional technologies included aptasensors for plant-stress monitoring (IA); magnetic enrichment of pathogens (MI); and wireless intravaginal sensors for drug delivery and health monitoring (MS). Nanocomposite membranes for PFAS remediation and nanoscale fertilizers were engineered using safe-by-design toxicity assessments (KY). Objective 3: Advance the integration of novel sensor networks, information systems, and artificial intelligence for effective risk assessment and decision support for food security and safety Outputs: A smartphone-based multispectral autofluorescence analysis system was employed to characterize micro- and nanoplastics that had been passively collected from aerosols on glass substrates (AZ). An existing platform for smartphone-based measurement of capillary flow ve-locity was further expanded to detect bacterial mixtures in environmental water samples (AZ). AI-assisted methods for characterizing protein/nanoplastic binding were also developed (IA). A comprehensive review and data synthesis were conducted on phosphate-binding mech-anisms and biotechnology relevant to sustainable phosphorus management (SC). Guidance for evaluating novel materials in environmental matrices was developed through a risk-assessment framework (SC). The same work also established a foundation for AI-assisted modeling of nutrient recovery and environmental risk (SC). Objective 4: Develop and update education and outreach materials on nanofabrication, sensing, systems integration and application risk assessment. Outputs: Through an NSF-funded Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) site, the IA Station trained community college and high school students in wearable graphene-based stress biosensor development during the summers of 2025. The IN Station is preparing an extension publication, in collaboration with extension specialists in CA and FL, to disseminate its findings. The MI Station hosted the GARD Forum virtually on March 20-22, 2025. A total of 530 participants from 37 countries across five continents registered for the event. At the SC Station, an educational and outreach-oriented review of biofertilizer regulation and adoption was developed to support knowledge dissemination to students, stakeholders, and the wider public. In addition, its conceptual synthesis titled Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi as Inspiration for Sustainable Technology is being incorporated into sustainable nano-technology teaching materials. Beyond scientific investigation, the project has provided structured mentorship and supported a range of educational outreach activities at the MS Station including summer camps, and high school STEM research mentorship programs, helping inspire the next generation of researchers and healthcare professionals. Objective 5: Increase the number academic-industry partnerships to help move the developed technologies to commercialization phase. Outputs: The IA Station is collaborating with the four universities in an Industry-University Coop-erative Research Centers initiative focused on soil dynamics technologies. The IN Station has renewed its academic-industry partnership with BASF for an addi-tional two years through a sponsored project focused on developing organic nanocarriers and evaluating their ability to enhance the efficacy of fungicides and nematicides. Results from the same station’s research have led to preliminary discussions with six other companies—AgXelerators, Silvec, FourStar Services, Bayer, Corteva, and CRODA—regarding potential future sponsored projects. The SC Station conducted demonstrations of scalable electrochemical platforms, includ-ing LIG and NiO-LIG technologies, which are compatible with industrial sensor manufacturing. The same team continued building cross-institutional collaborations with USDA laboratories, universities, and industry partners in the fields of food safety and environmental monitoring, and directed efforts toward translating lab-scale prototypes into commercial or pilot-ready sensor architectures.

Publications

<ol> <li>Abdessalam, S., Hardy, T., Pershina, D., & Yoon, J.-Y. (2025). A comparative review of organ-on-a-chip technologies for micro- and nanoplastics versus other environmental toxicants. Biosensors and Bioelectronics, 282, 117472.</li> <li>Aich, N., Azme, A., Tsyusko, O., & Escobar, I. (2025). Effects of two wet exfoliation strategies on the yield and colloidal behavior of 2D hexagonal boron nitride nanosheets. Nano Express, 6, 015011.</li> <li>Alfaro-Viquez, E., Urena-Saborio, H., Esquivel-Alvarado, E., Madrigal-Carballo, S., Krueger, C. G., Reed, J., & Gunasekaran, S. (2022). Cranberry proanthocyanidins composite electrospun nanofibers as a potential alternative for bacterial entrapment applications. Journal of Biomedical Materials Research Part B: Applied Biomaterials, 110(8), 1876-1886.</li> <li>Alocilja, E. (2024). Re-engineering agricultural innovation in Southeast Asia (RAISE-Asia). Asian Journal of Agriculture and Development, 21, 113-128.</li> <li>Ayivi, R., Adesanmi, B., Torres, M., Obare, S., Gomes, C., & McLamore, E. (2025). Polymer brushes for sensing in food systems: From phosphorus to pathogen detection. Sensors and Actuators Reports, 10, 100368.</li> <li>Boyer, T., Briese, E., Westerhoff, P., Rittmann, B., Bhadha, J., Call, D., Duckworth, O., McLamore, E., & Moreira, G. (2024). Guidance on aqueous environmental matrices for evaluating novel materials for phosphorus recovery. Chemosphere, 367, 143648.</li> <li>Buchanan, B., Loeffler, R., Liang, R., & Yoon, J.-Y. (2025). Capillary flow velocity-based length identification of PCR and RPA products on paper microfluidic chips. Biosensors and Bioelectronics, 267, 116861.</li> <li>Caliskan-Aydogan, O., & Alocilja, E. (2024). A parallel biosensor platform for detection of carbapenemase-producing coli in spiked food and water samples. Food Control, 163, 110485.</li> <li>Caliskan-Aydogan, O., Zaborney Kline, C., & Alocilja, E. (2024a). Adhesion capacity of carbapenem-resistant coli with magnetic nanoparticles. Nanomaterials, 14(24), 2010.</li> <li>Caliskan-Aydogan, O., Zaborney Kline, C., & Alocilja, E. (2024b). Cell morphology as a biomarker of carbapenem exposure. Journal of Antibiotics, 77, 600-611.</li> <li>Cavallaro, N., Moreira, G., Vanegas, D., Xiang, D., Datta, S., Gomes, C., & McLamore, E. (2024). A Listeria monocytogenes aptasensor for food safety monitoring in hydroponic cultivation. Discover Food, 4, 169.</li> <li>Choi, S.-J., Lee, M., Liang, Y., Lin, E., Khanthaphixay, B., Leigh, P., Hwang, D., & Yoon, J.-Y. (2025). Machine learning classification of quorum sensing-induced bacterial aggregation using flow rate assays on paper chips. Biosensors and Bioelectronics, 284, 117563.</li> <li>Cochran, J., Ngy, P., Unrine, J., Matocha, C., & Tsyusko, O. (2024). Effects of multiple stressors, pristine or sulfidized silver nanomaterials, and a pathogen on Caenorhabditis elegans. Nanomaterials, 14(11), 913.</li> <li>Cui, Z., Li, Y., Tsyusko, O., Wang, J., Unrine, J., Wei, G., & Chen, C. (2024). Metal-organic framework-enabled sustainable agrotechnologies: An overview of fundamentals and agricultural applications. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 72(16), 8890-8905.</li> <li>DeFord, L., & Yoon, J.-Y. (2024). Soil microbiome characterization and its future directions with biosensing. Journal of Biological Engineering, 18, 50.</li> <li>Erdenebat, U., Bendickson, L., David, A., Shrotriya, P., & Nilsen-Hamilton, M. (2025). Developing a proxy virus for an aptasensor and quantifying aptamer interactions with surface proteins. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 301(5), 109780.</li> <li>Ghazy, A., Nyarku, R., Faraj, R., Bentum, K., Woube, Y., Williams, M., Alocilja, E., & Abebe, W. (2024). Gold nanoparticle-based plasmonic detection of Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica, Campylobacter jejuni, and Listeria monocytogenes from bovine fecal samples. Microorganisms, 12(6), 1069.</li> <li>Hajikhani, M., Hegde, A., Snyder, J., Cheng, J., & Lin, M. (2024). Integrating transformer-based machine learning with SERS technology for the analysis of hazardous pesticides in spinach. Journal of Hazardous Materials, 470, 134208.</li> <li>Hajikhani, M., Kousheh, S., & Lin, M. (2024). Design of a novel SERS substrate by electrospinning for the detection of thiabendazole in soy-based foods. Food Chemistry, 436, 137703.</li> <li>Hao, X., Wang, S, Fu, Y., Liu, Y., Shen, H., Jiang, L., McLamore, E., & Shen, Y. (2024) The WRKY46-MYC2 module is critical for E-2-hexenal induced anti-herbivore responses by promoting the accumulation of flavonoids. Plant Communications, 5(2), 100734.</li> <li>Hayashi, Y., Fujii, T., Kim, S., Badylak, S., D’Amore, Mutsuga, M., & Wagner, W. (2024). 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Impact Statements

The research carried out by the group increased the understanding of nanotechnology and biosensors by the general public by building awareness of their current and potential roles in food and agriculture. At least 6 post-docs, 28 PhD students, 9 MS students, 25 undergraduates, and 1 visiting scholar participated in this project. The project’s other impacts during this reporting period can be summarized as follows: 1. Development of advanced nano-enabled tools and products that leverage the unique properties of nano-materials to improve agricultural and biological engineering outcomes, including improved sensing, treat-ment, and remediation (AZ, SC, IN, IL, IA, KY, MS, MO, MI, VA, WI) 2. Improved understanding of the capabilities and limitations of emerging nanotechnologies, including but not limited to reproducible nanofabrication (AZ, SC, IL, IA, MS, MO, MI, VA, WI) 3. Strengthened knowledge of nanomaterial/ecosystem interactions, supporting safer regulatory decision-making and sustainable deployment of nanotechnology in agricultural environments (IA, KY) 4. Increased public understanding of nanotechnology in food, agriculture, medicine, and environmental ap-plications (AZ, SC, IN, IL, IA, KY, MS, MO, MI, VA, WI) 5. Multiple nano-enabled biosensors and sensing platforms, such as SERS substrates and la-ser-induced gra-phene-based sensors, with enhanced sensitivity, detection speed, and applicability. Target analytes include bacteria, viruses, micro- and nanoplastics, and PFAS (AZ, SC, IL, MS, MO, MI, VA, WI) 6. An interdisciplinary framework integrating chemistry, soil science, and plant pathology for next-generation agrochemical delivery (IL, IA) 7. Advanced nanocarriers for nutrient and drug delivery and the leveraging of natural biochemical com-pounds as antimicrobials, improving structure-property-function understanding as a basis for treating in-fections (IA, MS, WI) 8. Lower environmental impacts of nitrogen fertilization, via development of safer nitrogen nanocarriers with the potential to lower nitrate leaching and greenhouse-gas emissions (KY) 9. Nanomaterials-enabled PFAS degradation strategies relevant to rapidly tightening regulatory standards (KY) 10. Training and workforce development, through providing multidisciplinary research experience to under-graduate, master’s, and PhD students (AZ, SC, IN, IL, IA, KY, MS, MO, MI, VA, WI) 11. Stakeholder engagement across the agricultural sector—including Michigan Turkey Producers, Miller Poul-try, and citrus extension teams—and the incorporation of stakeholder feedback into ongoing research (AZ, SC, IN, IL, IA, KY, MS, MO, MI, VA, WI)
In addition to the peer-reviewed journal publications listed in the next section, and the above-mentioned research, education and outreach activities, the outcomes of this project have supported multiple successful funding efforts. The participant from the AZ Station received a grant from the Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology for a project titled “Portable Micro- and Nanoplastics Detection”. Through an NSF-funded IUCRC grant, the team from the IA Station is collaborating with researchers from the universities of Florida, Connecticut, Washington, and Southern California to develop soil-dynamics technologies. A participant from the IL Station received internal support for studying nanotechnology-enabled delivery of fungicide to control red crown rot in soybeans. The IN Station has renewed its project with BASF, focusing on the development of a new sustainable foliar delivery platform.