Citrinin (CIT) determination in rice samples using a micro fluidic electrochemical immunosensor

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Biosensors
• Food Safety Analysis

Background:

• Citrinin (CIT) is a mycotoxin found in rice, posing health risks.
• Accurate and rapid detection methods for CIT are crucial for food safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a novel electrochemical immunosensor for citrinin quantification in rice samples.
• To offer a sensitive, selective, and rapid analytical tool for mycotoxin detection.

Main Methods:

• Competitive electrochemical immunoassay format utilizing a microfluidic cell.
• Monoclonal anti-CIT antibody and HRP-labeled secondary antibody for signal amplification.
• Amperometric detection of HRP-catalyzed substrate oxidation at a modified glassy carbon electrode.

Main Results:

• The immunosensor demonstrated a working range of 0.5–50 ng/mL for CIT.
• Achieved limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) of 0.1 and 0.5 ng/mL, respectively.
• Exhibited high sensitivity, selectivity, and assay times of 45 minutes with 2-minute electrochemical detection.

Conclusions:

• The developed electrochemical immunosensor is a highly sensitive and rapid tool for citrinin detection in rice.
• This method presents a significant advancement over conventional chromatographic techniques for mycotoxin analysis.
• The immunosensor is a valuable asset for routine monitoring of citrinin in cereal products.