Mycotoxin detection using high performance polymeric adsorbents
Innovative solid phase extraction cartridges utilizing high performance polymeric adsorbents (HPPA) for precise mycotoxin purification in grain extracts, enhancing quantification accuracy via HPLC and LC-MS.
Overview
The University of Leicester has developed highly specialized solid phase extraction cartridges featuring high performance polymeric adsorbents (HPPA) for the purification of mycotoxins from grain extracts. These adsorbents are specifically designed to target Aflatoxin (AFB1), Ochratoxin A (OTA), DON, Fumonisin, and Zearalenone (ZEA). By using molecular modeling to rationally design the polymer composition, the HPPA cartridges can effectively clean up complex cereal matrices, facilitating accurate quantification of mycotoxins via HPLC and LC-MS.
Technical specifications
- Cross-linked Methacrylic Polymers: HPPAs are composed of cross-linked methacrylic polymers, stable in both aqueous and organic solvents.
- Size and Stability: The polymers range from 25-103 µM in size, ensuring robust performance across varying conditions.
- Optimized Extraction: The extraction procedure pre-concentrates and purifies mycotoxins, preparing them for subsequent analytical quantification.
- Analytical Compatibility: Compatible with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) for precise toxin measurement.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 4, this technology has been validated in laboratory settings with all necessary purification and analytical protocols developed. Future plans include thorough testing and validation in laboratory conditions and real-world applications through independent testing partners.
About University of Leicester
The University of Leicester is a comprehensive public research university in the East Midlands with a global outlook and strong industry collaboration. Space Park Leicester anchors a research and technology park where companies co‑locate with academics, access open facilities such as cleanrooms, and secure incubator and grow‑on workspace to accelerate product development. Clinical translation is enabled through integration with University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust and the NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre. Research is backed by competitive funding from UK Research and Innovation and its councils, Innovate UK, and the National Institute for Health and Care Research. A dedicated commercialization team supports IP, licensing, spin‑outs, and routes for contract research, consultancy, and Knowledge Transfer Partnerships.
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