Author Spotlight: Quantification of Aflatoxins and Phytoalexins in Peanut Seeds to Identify Genetic Resistance Against <i>Aspergillus </i>

The scope of the research was to develop a method of quantification of aflatoxins and defensive phytoalexins in thousands of peanut seeds for the exploration of wild Arachis germplasm, to identify species resistant to aspergillus, and to determine and characterize novel sources of genetic resistance to this fungal pathogen. Our research group has found that the most promising approach to identify peanut germplasm that does not accumulate aflatoxin is to perform a holistic analysis of each individual seed, including its transcriptomics, genomics, phytoalexins, and mycotoxin profiles. We have developed protocols for wild and cultivated peanut seed analysis, which means using 1/4 of a single seed for chemical profiling, Developing high-throughput methods for effective seed challenging, extraction, and accurate quantification of phytoalexins in peanut seed samples.

We have discovered numerous peanut phytoalexins and developed efficient and inexpensive methods for aflatoxin analysis, as well as for screening peanut germplasm with reduced or no aflatoxin accumulation. The methods include genotyping and determination of seed viability.