ARS | Publication request: Sorption of Ochratoxin A from aqueous solutions using beta-cyclodextrin-polyurethane polymer

Submitted to: Toxins
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: January 30, 2012
Publication Date: February 6, 2012
Citation: Appell, M.D., Jackson, M.A. 2012. Sorption of Ochratoxin A from aqueous solutions using beta-cyclodextrin-polyurethane polymer. Toxins. 4:98-109. DOI: 10.3390/toxinx4020098.

Interpretive Summary: This research determined that a new class of polymer materials could lower levels of the natural toxin ochratoxin A in water and wine. Ochratoxin A is a harmful natural product produced by certain fungi that contaminate agricultural commodities. This toxin is not safe, and contamination reduces commodity values. In an effort to reduce exposure to the ochratoxin A toxin, we investigated a carbohydrate-polymer material designed to have very small features that can assist reducing levels of ochratoxin A in water and wine. The interaction between ochratoxin A and the material was investigated using experimental and computational techniques. We discovered the carbohydrate polymer is capable of reducing ochratoxin A levels in water and wine, and the mechanism of action is complex. The results of this study will be useful to researchers looking for new materials to lower ochratoxin A levels in beverages.

Technical Abstract: The ability of a cyclodextrin-polyurethane polymer to remove ochratoxin A from aqueous solutions, including wine, was examined by batch rebinding assays and equilibrium sorption isotherms. The results were fit to two parameter models. Freundlich analysis of the sorption isotherm indicates the polymer has a heterogeneous population of binding sites for ochratoxin A. Batch rebinding assays in red wine indicate the polymer is able to remove significant levels of ochratoxin A from spiked solutions between 1-10 µg L-1. These results suggest cyclodextrin nanosponge materials are suitable to reduce levels of ochratoxin A from contaminated water and wine.