Mycotoxin Crises: fit-for-purpose analytical responses in the Developing World

Abstract

In developed market economies, control of mycotoxin exposure in the general population is achieved by legislated regulations governing maximum permitted levels. Such regulations are widely enforced to prevent outbreaks of overt mycotoxicoses. In developing countries, particularly in Africa, the situation is reversed, and individual mycotoxin exposures can be high, especially in rural communities reliant on subsistence or small-holder farming and local markets. Besides the effects of chronic mycotoxin exposure, Africa in recent years has experienced outbreaks of acute toxicity, such as aflatoxicosis. Recognizing and handling mycotoxin-induced health crises requires a range of responses, many of which rely on the provision and availability of fit-for-purpose analytical methods. Although regional laboratories may be able to provide support, rapid responses require in-field test kits reliant on antibody technologies. The future development of aptamers into test systems may be an important component of these analytical responses, as they provide important advantages in terms of stability, shelf-life, and low production costs.