I-Corps: Biosensor for landmine detection

Cuny College Of Staten Island, Staten Island NY

Investigators

Abstract

The broader impact/commercial potential of this I-Corps project is the development of a next-generation landmine detection biosensor that can be distributed in a wide range of fields, in various environmental conditions. The project's primary goal is to provide a safe and efficient method to detect landmines, which are often buried and camouflaged, causing a significant threat to both military forces and civilians. The current detection methods are outdated and risky, requiring physical on-site presence, and they are also costly. Therefore, the proposed project aims to provide a more efficient and cost-effective solution by utilizing genetic engineering, microbiology, and biochemical approaches. The innovative biosensor system will employ two biosensors that are engineered to use TNT/DNT and toluene as the sole nitrogen-source and carbon source, respectively, to detect landmines and generate fluorescent signals that can be amplified several folds for easy detection. This I-Corps project is based on the development of a highly sensitive landmine detection biosensor. The proposed biosensor will employ bioreporter, genetic engineering, microbiology, and biochemical approaches. The key features of this technology include (1) signal amplification, (2) extreme environment adaptation, and (3) TNT/DNT-response. The project's potential benefits extend beyond landmine detection and clearance, as it can enhance our understanding of bio- and nano-technology in explosive detection. It can also contribute to socioeconomic development by providing a cost-effective solution for detecting landmines globally, where there are currently an estimated 100 million landmines in the ground, and mine action costs exceed $500 million annually. Therefore, this innovative landmine biosensor system can potentially reduce the morbidity and mortality caused by the buried landmines and promote socioeconomic development in affected regions. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.