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Published on: April 23, 2012
Biosensor-based screening method for the detection of aflatoxins B1-G1
Massimiliano Cuccioloni1, Matteo Mozzicafreddo, Simone Barocci
1Department of Molecular, Cellular and Animal Biology, University of Camerino, Italy. massimiliano.cuccioloni@unicam.it
Analytical Chemistry
|June 25, 2009
Summary
A novel surface plasmon resonance assay detects aflatoxins B1 and G1 using neutrophil porcine elastase. This rapid, reusable, and cost-effective biosensor offers an alternative screening method for these toxic food contaminants.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biosensor Technology
- Food Safety
Background:
- Aflatoxins are toxic fungal metabolites contaminating foodstuffs.
- Accurate and rapid detection of aflatoxins is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel, rapid, and cost-effective assay for aflatoxin B1 and G1 detection.
- To establish an alternative screening technique for mycotoxins in food.
Main Methods:
- Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) using neutrophil porcine elastase as a biospecific ligand.
- Optimization of incubation time, concentration, and solid-phase extraction for maize samples.
- Validation against chromatographic and ELISA methods.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated competitive and reversible inhibition of protease by aflatoxin B1.
- Achieved rapid analysis with a single detection test in minutes.
- Validated the assay for AFB1 and AFG1 detection in spiked samples and maize.
Conclusions:
- The developed enzyme-based biosensor offers a rapid, reusable, and low-cost method for aflatoxin detection.
- This SPR assay provides a viable alternative screening technique for mycotoxins in food matrices.
