Use of a bio-wipe kit to detect fumonisin B₁ in faecal materials

Abstract

Fusarium toxins with reference to fumonisin B1 (FB1) have long been regarded as contaminants of maize and maize-based related products. However, when consumed they can cause intoxication, especially in humans. Therefore, effective quantitative methods for assessing the dietary exposure of this toxic fungal metabolite are required. The objective of this investigation was to evaluate the effect on the use of a bio-wipe kit, which is a faecal material collection kit, to detect the presence of FB1. Faecal materials were collected from a rural farming community in Gauteng Province, South Africa. In total, 200 samples of faecal material were analysed for Fusarium species using a serial dilution method, while FB1 was further analysed and quantified by reversed-phase TLC and HPLC. The study showed the presence of 11 different Fusarium species grown on potato dextrose agar culture medium of which F. verticillioides and F. proliferatum, producers of FB1, and F. oxysporum were the dominant species. Fumonisin B1 was recorded at an incidence rate of 65% of the total using TLC. Results from HPLC showed that 84% were positive at different ranges of concentration for FB1. This study supports the use of a bio-wipe as a rapid method to determine human exposure to FB1.

Keywords:

• bio-wipes
• Fusarium
• fumonisin B1

Acknowledgements

Gratitude is extended by the authors to the rural community of Gauteng Province, South Africa, for its support during sampling. The contribution of Dr A. T. Kuvarega, Ms S. I. K. Meita and other members of the Water and Health Research Unit is duly acknowledged. Appreciation is also extended to the publication workshop arranged by the South African Young Water Professionals during which this manuscript was prepared. The authors would also like to convey their appreciation to the Department of Science and Technology, Water Institute of Southern Africa and the University of Johannesburg for covering the costs of the workshop.