Advanced LC-MS techniques for mycotoxin detection in grains
Enhance mycotoxin detection in grains with advanced LC-MS techniques, offering higher sensitivity, quantification, and multiplexing capabilities compared to ELISA. This cost-effective method improves accuracy and efficiency for detecting a range of mycotoxins.
Overview
Current commercial methods for mycotoxin detection, such as ELISA, face challenges in sensitivity, quantification, and multiplexing capabilities. Our innovative approach utilizes LC/MS QToF and LC/MS QQQ techniques to significantly improve the accuracy, range of detection, and quantification of mycotoxins in grains. This method presents a cost-effective solution for paired sample testing, addressing limitations of existing immunodiagnostic tests and offering enhanced detection for a broader range of metabolites in food grains.
Technical specifications
Our LC/MS techniques leverage Ultra High Pressure Liquid Chromatography (UPLC) coupled with QToF or QQQ mass spectrometry to achieve:
- High sensitivity for accurate detection and quantification of mycotoxins
- The ability to detect multiple metabolites in a single run
- Rapid and cost-effective processing
The proposed study aims to develop a standardized, inexpensive, and efficient QQQ/QTOF method for mycotoxin detection across various organic solvents, including methanol, ethanol, chloroform, and dichloromethane. This approach will facilitate the detection and quantification of mycotoxins in cereal extracts and milled grain products.
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 4, indicating that it has been validated in the laboratory with ongoing development to optimize protocols and compare results against standard immunoassay techniques.
About Charles Sturt University
Charles Sturt University is a comprehensive, multi‑campus public university serving regional New South Wales, with an applied research focus and substantial on‑farm and laboratory infrastructure. Industry collaborates on site through AgriPark—an innovation and commercialization precinct on the Wagga Wagga campus—linking co‑located companies and pilots with university expertise, supported by a commercial farm, vineyard and winery. The Global Digital Farm, developed with the Food Agility Cooperative Research Centre, offers a commercial‑scale landscape laboratory for end‑to‑end technology validation. Research is backed by competitive national funding, including the Australian Research Council and National Health and Medical Research Council, with dedicated engagement and IP services to streamline collaboration.
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