Immunoassays: an alternative for toxigenic fungi detection in foods

摘要

Constant monitoring of mould contamination is essential in order to insure food quality and safety, reduce economic losses and minimize the potential hazards to human and animal health. The traditional methods for mould identification and detection (culture in several media, microscopic examination and chemical analysis) are usually time-consuming and require trained staff. Immunoassays, particularly enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is a promising alternative to the traditional methods due to their high sensitivity, specificity, reproducibility and potential for use in rapid quality control. Among the ELISA tests that can be used, those based on exoantigens are the most useful in the resolution of taxonomic problems, detection and identification of toxigenic fungi. This review discusses the basic principles of immunoassays, methods of mould detection and the different ELISAs developed for toxigenic fungi detection in food..