Optimization of the detection of mycotoxins in plant material using LCMS

Mycotoxins are acutely toxic compounds produced by fungi when they infect food crops such as grains and cereals but can also be found in cannabis flower and products. These compounds are known to cause cancer and kidney failure when ingested and are therefore closely regulated by Health Canada. There are 4 main mycotoxins that are tested for and must be below a certain threshold value before these products can be sold. The accurate and sensitive detection of these compounds in cannabis is difficult due to the complexity of the small molecules that are also extracted from the plant when trying to isolate mycotoxins. This project aims to produce and reliable and accurate method for the quantitation of these compounds that would ensure the safety of cannabis products.

Faculty Supervisor:

Wesley Zandberg

Student:

Partner:

Supra Research and Development

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

The University of British Columbia - Okanagan

Program: