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Current Trends and Challenges for Rapid SMART Diagnostics at Point-of-Site Testing for Marine Toxins
Michael Dillon1,2, Maja A Zaczek-Moczydlowska1, Christine Edwards3
1Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast BT9 5DL, UK.
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
|April 30, 2021
Summary
Marine biotoxin analysis has shifted to advanced methods like HPLC-MS, with improved standards aiding validation. However, cost and expertise remain challenges, driving the need for rapid, accessible testing solutions globally.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Marine Biology
- Food Safety
Background:
- Marine biotoxin analysis has evolved from mouse bioassays (MBA) to advanced techniques like HPLC-MS.
- Limited availability of certified analytical standards previously hindered method validation.
- High costs and specialized personnel requirements pose challenges for routine monitoring labs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current marine biotoxin testing methods and recent advances.
- To highlight practical considerations for end-users of these methods.
- To identify trends shaping the future of marine biotoxin assay development.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on marine biotoxin analysis techniques.
- Analysis of commercially available testing kits (ELISA, LFIA).
- Exploration of emerging biosensor technologies for toxin detection.
Main Results:
- Increased availability of analytical standards has facilitated method validation.
- Challenges persist regarding cost, complexity, and personnel for advanced techniques.
- Limited commercial kits exist for regulatory control, especially for developing regions.
- Novel assays and biosensor technologies are under development.
Conclusions:
- Continued development of rapid, sensitive, and user-friendly testing methods (SMART POST) is crucial.
- Trends like multiplexing and point-of-site testing will shape future marine biotoxin analysis.
- International acceptance and validation of new methods are key objectives.
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