AI-enabling Technologies and WGS

Artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to improve Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) which in the food safety context is the process of determining the order of nucleotides of foodborne microbes. AI can help with analyzing large amounts of microbial genome data, identifying genetic mutations, and making predictions. 

1. FRESH is working on AI integration into WGS 

  • Data analysis: AI can process and interpret large amounts of microbial genome data.
  • Pattern recognition: AI can identify patterns in microbial genome data.
  • Prediction: AI can make predictions about genetic variations.
  • Classification: AI can classify variations in microbial genome data.
  • Enhancing food safety: AI can integrate with microbial genome data to provide real time monitoring of foodborne microbes in food supply chain and efficiency of reducing them.

2. Benefits of AI in WGS  

  • Improved accuracy: AI can improve the accuracy of WGS.
  • Efficient analysis: AI can analyze microbial genome data more efficiently than traditional methods.
  • Identification of novel mutations: AI can identify genetic mutations that might not be detected by traditional methods.
  • Biomarker discovery: AI can help discover biomarkers to facilitate tracking of foodborne microbes.
how ai helps with genome sequencing 3

3. Applying WGS in Predictive Microbiology 

  • Using Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) to analyze pathogen evolution, virulence factors, and antimicrobial resistance genes. 

  • Enhancing foodborne outbreak surveillance and predictive modeling for food safety risk assessment. 

  • Supporting microbiome studies to evaluate food processing impact on microbial communities.

1. Applying WGS in Predictive Microbiology

4. Phage Technology to Overcome AMR 

  • Exploring bacteriophage-based solutions as alternatives to traditional antibiotics in food safety and animal health. 
  •  Developing phage biocontrol strategies to enhance food preservation and safety. 

 

Phage Technology to Overcome AMR

5. Capacity Building & Talent Development 

  • FRESH is working with NTU in undergraduate education in food safety. The module introduces students to food safety hazards, with a focus on microbiological contaminants affecting the food supply chain. It also covers key regulatory frameworks to ensure hygiene and safety in food production.  
  • Additionally, students will learn about risk analysis, including assessment, management, and communication, to evaluate and control potential food safety threats. 
  •  The module will introduce lab sessions to provide NTU undergraduate students with hands-on experience in the detection and identification of foodborne microbes by WGS and in monitoring the food supply chain by WGS. 

 

Capacity Building & Talent Development