LC-MS method for quantitation of mycotoxins in organic solvents
A high-throughput LC-MS method for simultaneous detection and quantification of multiple mycotoxins, utilizing reverse phase chromatography and MRM detection, aimed at improving food safety testing and quality control.
Overview
This innovative project focuses on developing a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) method designed for the quantitation of mycotoxins in organic solvents. By leveraging reverse phase chromatographic separation and scheduled multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) detection, this solution provides a comprehensive, selective, and sensitive approach to analyzing multiple mycotoxins. The technology aims to enhance food safety testing and quality control by offering a cost-effective, high-throughput platform that benefits the food industry, consumers, and public health.
Technical specifications
The project uses a high sensitivity triple quadrupole mass spectrometer to achieve simultaneous detection of mycotoxins. Key features include:
- Use of reverse phase chromatography for optimal separation of a wide range of mycotoxins.
- Scheduled MRM detection for high sensitivity and specificity in testing.
- Development and validation of the method on the Agilent UPLC system and Agilent 6460 Triple Quad mass spectrometer.
- Robustness, accuracy, precision, sensitivity, and specificity are tested across various food and feed matrices.
- Spiked recovery experiments to assess method performance and adaptability.
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at TRL 5, indicating that it has been validated in a laboratory environment. The next steps involve further validation and application to customer-tailored samples for comprehensive mycotoxin profiling and evaluation of its effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
About University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland
The University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland (HES‑SO) is a large, multi‑campus public university of applied sciences serving the French‑speaking cantons, recognized for practice‑oriented education and application‑driven R&D. Industry engagement is built into its model via co‑developed projects with companies, shared labs and testbeds, and access to prototyping and testing facilities distributed across its schools. Its cross‑cantonal footprint situates talent next to Swiss innovation hubs and SME clusters, enabling rapid collaboration, internships, and workforce upskilling. Research is supported by competitive funding from Innosuisse and the Swiss National Science Foundation, with additional support from European framework programs and cantonal partners; a dedicated technology transfer office streamlines IP, contracting, and startup formation.
delivered to your inbox.