Rapid biosensor for mycotoxin screening in corn receiving
This solution offers a rapid biosensor for mycotoxin screening in corn, utilizing AI-designed protein binders to detect toxins like DON and ZEN. It enables quick operational decisions at grain receiving points, enhancing quality assurance and reducing risk.
Overview
The rapid biosensor for mycotoxin screening is an innovative solution designed to detect harmful toxins in corn at receiving points. Developed by Penn State researchers in collaboration with Alux Biotechnologies, this biosensor employs AI-designed protein binders that create specific binding pockets for small-molecule toxins. This technology aims to provide a quick yes/no screening via an optical response, facilitating immediate operational decisions and confirmatory testing. The initial focus is on detecting deoxynivalenol (DON) and zearalenone (ZEN), with the potential to expand to aflatoxin and fumonisin.
Technical specifications
- AI-designed protein binders: These are computationally generated to create highly specific binding pockets for target toxins.
- Rapid optical response: The binding events generate a quick optical signal, allowing threshold-based screening.
- Versatile framework: The design supports potential expansion to other toxins, including aflatoxin and fumonisin.
- Operational integration: Facilitates early identification of contaminated corn loads, enabling diversion before wet milling.
- Preservation of co-product value: Helps maintain the quality of corn gluten meal and feed by reducing toxin concentrations.
Technology readiness level
Currently, the technology is at TRL 3, with ongoing validation phases planned to further refine and prototype the biosensor. Initial phases focus on refining recognition elements and integrating them into a screening workflow, with subsequent phases dedicated to validating prototype performance and operational deployment.
About Penn State University
Penn State University is a comprehensive public land‑grant research university with a large multi‑campus footprint across Pennsylvania. Industry engages through a research and technology park adjacent to the flagship campus that houses corporate R&D, co‑located labs, and flexible collaboration space, as well as a statewide extension network that enables field testing, demonstration, and workforce reach. Integration with a major hospital system supports clinical translation, and an applied research laboratory fosters mission‑driven partnerships with government and industry sponsors. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, DOE, USDA, DoD, and NASA. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, and startup formation to accelerate commercialization.
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