Trimer-based aptasensor for simultaneous determination of multiple mycotoxins using SERS and fluorimetry.

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Biosensors
• Food Safety

Background:

• Mycotoxins like zearalenone (ZEN), ochratoxin A (OTA), and fumonisin B1 (FB1) pose significant risks to human and animal health.
• Accurate and simultaneous detection of multiple mycotoxins is crucial for effective food safety monitoring.
• Existing detection methods often lack the sensitivity, selectivity, or multiplexing capability required for comprehensive analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a novel aptasensor for the simultaneous determination of ZEN, OTA, and FB1.
• To leverage Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) and Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) for enhanced detection.
• To establish a sensitive, selective, and reliable method for mycotoxin quantification.

Main Methods:

• Development of an aptasensor utilizing aptamers as recognition elements.
• Integration of FRET and SERS techniques for signal transduction and amplification.
• Optimization of assay conditions and validation using standard solutions and spiked samples.

Main Results:

• Simultaneous detection of ZEN, OTA, and FB1 achieved with high sensitivity and selectivity.
• Achieved low detection limits: 0.03 ng/mL for ZEN, 0.01 ng/mL for OTA, and 0.02 pg/mL for FB1.
• Demonstrated excellent recovery rates (90-107%) and high selectivity against other mycotoxins.

Conclusions:

• The developed aptasensor provides a promising platform for multiplexed mycotoxin detection.
• The combined FRET-SERS approach offers enhanced analytical performance for food safety applications.
• This assay holds significant potential for routine monitoring and risk assessment of mycotoxin contamination.