Commercial immunological kits for the analysis of mycotoxins
(By Pradip Patel amended Feb 2003 by C Entwisle)
Commercial immunological kits for mycotoxins are broadly categorised in to immunoaffinity column (IAC)-based analysis and ELISAs. In the former case, the IAC are used effectively to clean-up complex matrices and allow isolation and concentratation of the specific toxin. Following elution from the IAC, the toxin is then quantified using a range of analytical techniques, including HPLC, TLC and MS. In the case of ELISAs, the clean-up procedures are generally not as intensive as the other analytical techniques. A sample homogenate containing toxin is either directly quantified using a standard microtitre plate or tube assay format ELISA or a membrane-based format ELISA is used for the purpose of screening for the presence of the specific toxin.
Table I summarises the current commercial immunological kits available for the analysis of a wide range of mycotoxins, including details of the company address, commercial kit trademark, assay format, applicable matrix, the reported lower limit of detection (sensitivity), official approval of kits, references showing independent data on kit evaluations and the nature of analysis (quantitative, semi-quantitative or qualitative). Two sets of references are also attached; the first relating to those cited in Table 1 and, second, a list of additional references that are considered useful articles on immunological techniques for the analysis of mycotoxins.
N.B. Table I has been revised (February 2003). Please be advised that products and availability are liable to change, so it is recommended that you check with your local supplier for current information.
Commercially Available Immunological Test Kits and Rapid Methods (and Specifications) for the Analysis of Mycotoxins
If you would like details of your test kits listed here, please contact help@mycotoxins.com
