Biological detoxification solutions for mycotoxins in corn wet milling
Innovative biological detoxification strategies for reducing zearalenone and fumonisins in corn wet milling streams using microbial screening and enzymatic workflows. This scalable solution aims to enhance co-product value and reduce toxin concentrations.
Overview
Virginia Tech presents an innovative solution for the biological detoxification of mycotoxins, specifically zearalenone (ZEN) and fumonisins, in corn wet milling streams. Utilizing microbial screening and enzymatic workflows developed by the Schmale Lab, this approach builds on over 20 years of expertise in mycotoxin research. The proposed solution aims to transform ZEN and fumonisins into lower toxicity compounds, offering a scalable and cost-effective method for reducing toxin concentrations and preserving the value of co-products in wet milling processes.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Utilizes advanced microbial screening and bioprospecting techniques to identify effective microorganisms and enzymatic systems.
- Employs validated GC/MS workflows for precise quantification of mycotoxins and transformation products.
- Focuses on biological transformation pathways using environmental microbial consortia and enzymatic modification systems.
- Designed for integration into existing wet milling and co-product processing systems to enhance product quality and safety.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 4, the technology has been validated in controlled environments. The research plan includes further validation through a multi-phase approach, which will screen and evaluate microbial and enzymatic candidates in representative wet milling matrices. Potential partnership models include licensing, supply purchase, and co-development, offering diverse opportunities for industry collaboration.
About Virginia Tech
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) is a comprehensive public land‑grant research university with broad graduate and professional programs and a strong industry orientation. An adjacent research and technology park links companies with faculty, shared labs, and prototyping resources, while facilities in the National Capital Region create a direct connection to federal partners and supply‑chain collaborators. Integration with a regional health system supports clinical research and translational pathways, and the statewide extension network enables field deployment and validation with industry and communities. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, DOE, USDA, and the Department of Defense. A dedicated technology transfer office provides IP management, licensing, startup formation, and industry contracting support.
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