Development of two immunochromatographic test strips based on signal amplification and selenium nanoparticles for the rapid detection of T-2 mycotoxin

Conventional immunochromatographic test strips (ICSs) based on gold nanoparticle (AuNP) probes offer limited sensitivity. Here, AuNPs were separately labeled with monoclonal or secondary antibodies (MAb or SAb). In addition, spherical, homogeneously dispersed, and stable selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) were also synthesized. By optimizing the preparation parameters, two ICSs based on the dual AuNP signal amplification (Duo-ICS) or SeNPs (Se-ICS) were developed for the rapid detection of T-2 mycotoxin. The detection sensitivities of the Duo-ICS and Se-ICS assays for T-2 were 1 ng/mL and 0.25 ng/mL, respectively, which were 3-fold and 15-fold more sensitive, respectively, than a conventional ICS. Furthermore, the ICSs were applied in the detection of T-2 in cereals, which requires higher sensitivity. Our findings indicate that both ICS systems can be used for rapid, sensitive, and specific detection of T-2 toxin in cereals and potentially other sample types.