DETECTOX - Development of an SPR-Based Biosensor for the Detection of Lipophilic Phycotoxins in Shellfish Residues

Lipophilic phycotoxins are often found in high levels in bivalve molluscs, echinoderms, tunicates ormarine gastropods and the consumption of these contaminated seafoods can pose a significant threat to human health. There is a need to monitor levels of these toxins in seafood meant for human consumption and to keep levels below defined thresholds. In Europe the broad spectrum mouse or rat bioassay is the only official method for the detection of these toxins, although recently directives were approved stating that any functional method could be used to replace the bioassay if fully validated.
<P>

The proposed biosensor will exploit the phenomenon of Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) to detect and measure these lipophilic phycotoxins in seafood residues. The sensor will be designed as an inhibition assay capable of rapid, reliable multi-toxin detection. The technology allows real-time, automated, multiresidue analysis of food products, both in laboratories and at on-site locations and is capable of measuring coloured, turbid or opaque sample solutions.

<P>
The assembled consortium has a great deal of experience in their respective fields and demonstrates a high level of complementarity. The project has the required expertise and resources required to carry out the development of this valuable new technology, which has the potential not only to eliminate the need for the ethically concerning bioassays currently used, but also to provide a simple, cheap and improved method for the detection of phycotoxins in shellfish residues.

<P>

For more information about this project, please visit the <a href="http://ec.europa.eu/research/biosociety/food_quality/projects/070_en.ht…; target="_blank">European Commission Food Quality and Safety in Europe</a> Web site.