Potential Use of Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy for Identification of Molds Capable of Producing Mycotoxins

Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy is considered as a rapid, non-destructive, reliable, sensitive, and cost-effective technique, which could be used for characterizing the chemical composition (identifying functional groups) of various microorganisms. In the present study, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was employed to differentiate (based on functional groups; spectral range between 3500-500 cm(-1)) between different genera of fungi (mainly Aspergillus sp. and Mucor sp.), capable of producing mycotoxins. From the results, it was clearly evident that irrespective of the overall similarities between the spectra of different fungi, there is a unique spectrum for each one with precise differences in the functional groups. These results can be useful and provide a suitable finger print for each of the fungal strains capable of producing mycotoxins. This method of differentiating between toxigenic fungi can also be effectively used in assisting quarantine rules. The results obtained in this study revealed Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy to show great potential for identification of molds capable of producing mycotoxins.