Analysis of selected mycotoxins by capillary electrophoresis

Summary The separation of the mycotoxins ochratoxin A, ochratoxin B, zearalenone and moniliformin by standard capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) and cyclodextrins modified CE is described. In addition, reversed electroosmotic flow (EOF) conditions via quarternary ammonium running buffer additives have been briefly examined. Parameters influencing selectivity and mobility as well as spectroscopic properties of the analytes have also been investigated. Separations performed at pH values from 5 to 11 show a marked pH dependency of the mobilities accompanied by pronounced shifts of the UV/VIS and/or fluorescence spectra of the compounds. In general, the on-line recording of spectra by diodearray detection (DAD), proved to be highly versatile for peak tracking simultaneously with the structure elucidation and thus for the optimization of sample introduction, peak resolution and detection conditions.