Simultaneous detection of multiple mycotoxins using MXene-based electrochemical aptasensor array and a self-developed...

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Biosensors
• Food Safety

Background:

• Mycotoxins frequently co-occur in food and feed, necessitating efficient simultaneous detection methods.
• Current detection methods may lack efficiency, speed, or cost-effectiveness for multiple mycotoxin analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a highly efficient MXene-based electrochemical aptasensor array (MBEAA) for simultaneous mycotoxin detection.
• To create a portable, rapid, and cost-effective device for analyzing aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), ochratoxin A (OTA), and zealenone (ZEN).

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of an MXene-based aptasensor array using high-specificity aptamers as recognition elements.
• Development of a multi-channel portable electrochemical device for signal capture.
• Application and validation of the system using corn samples.

Main Results:

• The MBEAA demonstrated simultaneous detection of AFB1, OTA, and ZEN with a wide detection range (1.0 × 10⁻¹ to 10.0 ng mL⁻¹).
• Ultra-low detection limits were achieved: 41.2 pg mL⁻¹ for AFB1, 27.6 pg mL⁻¹ for OTA, and 33.0 pg mL⁻¹ for ZEN.
• The system proved successful in analyzing mycotoxins in real corn samples, highlighting its practical applicability.

Conclusions:

• The developed MXene-based electrochemical aptasensor array offers a portable, user-friendly, and cost-effective solution for simultaneous multi-mycotoxin detection.
• The platform's versatility allows for potential expansion to detect other targets with available specific aptamers or antibodies.
• This technology significantly advances rapid screening capabilities for mycotoxin contamination in food and feed.