Peanut allergythe leading cause of fatal food-induced anaphylaxis in the U.S.remains challenging to manage with avoidance, currently the only effective prevention

The Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture awarded Delaware State University $499,999 under the 1890 Institution Capacity Building Grants program (CFDA 10.216) on January 1, 2026.

The award funds a computational and experimental research project to reduce peanut allergenicity. Delaware State University will employ artificial intelligence and deep learning to design high-affinity nanobody-like proteins that bind to the Ara h 2 allergen and block immunoglobulin E attachment. The university will validate these proteins through in vitro experiments and apply CRISPR-Cas9 technology to edit the Ara h 2 gene in peanuts, aiming to modify allergens and reduce allergic reactions. Genetically engineered and wildtype peanut seeds will be analyzed using genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and chemical techniques to confirm proper gene integration and assess nutritional quality relative to wildtype peanuts. The nanobody-like proteins will serve as detectors to confirm deletion of the Ara h 2 allergen. The project also supports graduate education and workforce development in STEM disciplines at the HBCU.

Performance occurs at Delaware State University's location in Leipsic, Delaware. The period of performance runs from January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2028. The 1890 Institution Capacity Building Grants program supports teaching, research, and Extension capacity at 1890 land-grant universities, historically Black institutions established under the Second Morrill Act of 1890.

Allergens trigger the immune system in susceptible individuals elevating antibody immunoglobulin e (IGE) levels. IGE binds to allergens which cause the release of histamines resulting in peanut allergy. In this study a computational DE novo design approach employing advanced AI deep learning frameworks will generate high-affinity nanobody-like protein (NB-prot) variations to bind with ARA h 2 to block the IGE binding. The NB-prots will be further validated with in vitro experiments. Crispr-CAS9 technology will edit the ARA h 2 gene in peanuts aiming to modify the allergens associated with IT thereby reducing allergic reactions. The NB-prots will act as a detector to confirm the deletion of ARA h 2. Additionally, the genetically engineered and wildtype peanut seeds will be analyzed using genomic transcriptomic proteomic and chemical techniques to confirm the proper integration of the engineered gene and to reveal the nutritional quality of the modified peanut compared to the wildtype. The project leverages the unique methodologies and expertise of each investigator creating a synergistic collaboration crucial for its success. This project will create new opportunities for students to engage in research pursuing graduate education, nurture the next generation of scientists, engineers and leaders fostering economic growth and support hbcu executive order by improving workforce preparedness.