This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Feed Zearalenone Solution
BioVenic provides feed zearalenone (mycotoxin) analysis and mitigation services for the detection and detoxification of zearalenone and its derivatives in animal feed, supporting feed mycotoxin safety assessment, feed additive and bioprocess development, and animal nutrition research. Our platform covers zearalenone and its derivatives via LC-MS/MS, LC-FLD, LC-UV, ELISA, and LFD, along with feed additive (degrading enzymes and probiotics) development and biological detoxification through microbial and enzymatic degradation. We support zearalenone-related animal research with in vitro and in vivo models and multi-omics (microbiome, metabolome, proteome) analyses to evaluate intervention efficacy and safeguard animal reproductive health.
Sources of Zearalenone
Zearalenone, also known as ZEA or ZEN, is primarily produced by Fusarium fungi, notably species like F. graminearum, F. culmorum, F. cerealis, F. equiseti, F. crookwellense, F. semitectum, F. verticillioides, F. sporotrichioides, F. oxysporum, and F. acuminatum. This mycotoxin is frequently detected in various cereals such as wheat, barley, maize, sorghum, rye, rice, corn silage, sesame seed, hay, flour, malt, soybeans, beer, and corn oil. It was isolated, for the first time (as F-2), from maize inoculated with Fusarium.
Derivatives of Zearalenone
Zearalenone can be modified by phase I and phase II metabolism in plants, fungi and animals. Modified forms of zearalenone found in feed include the phase I metabolites α-zearalenol, β-zearalenol, α-zearalanol, β-zearalanol, zearalanone, and phase II conjugates. These compounds belong to the group of resorcyclic acid lactones. The chemical structures of zearalenone and its derivatives are shown in the following figure: a) zearalenone (ZEA), b) α-zearalenol (α-ZOL), c) β-zearalenol (β-ZOL), d) zearalanone (ZAN), e) α-zearalanol (αZAL), f) β-zearalanol (β-ZAL).
Fig. 1 Chemical structures of zearalenone and its derivatives1,2
Impacts of Zearalenone on Animals
Zearalenone has been linked to hyperestrogenism and various reproductive disorders in cattle, swine, and poultry, with pigs being the most susceptible species. The following are some of the effects of zearalenone on animals:
Table. 1 Impacts of zearalenone on animals
| Animal Type | Effects |
|---|---|
| Pigs |
|
| Sheep |
|
| Goat |
|
| Cattle |
|
| Horse |
|
| Poultry |
|
| Dogs |
|
Feed Zearalenone Solutions
At BioVenic, we present all-inclusive solutions tailored for addressing zearalenone and its metabolites, encompassing zearalenone analysis solutions, aiding in the formulation of animal feed additives and biological methodologies to alleviate zearalenone's detrimental impacts, along with conducting animal experiments pertinent to zearalenone.
- Zearalenone Analysis Solutions
Our array of feed mycotoxin analysis techniques facilitates the detection and quantification of zearalenone and its derivatives across diverse sample types like feed samples, animal bodily fluids, and tissues. These methodologies are instrumental in exploring the toxicokinetics of zearalenone in various animal species. Commonly employed analytical methods for examining zearalenone and its associated metabolites comprise LC-MS/MS, LC-FLD, and LC-UV. Additionally, we offer quick immunoassays like ELISA and LFD testing tailored for zearalenone and its derivatives. Moreover, our services extend to developing innovative assays specific to zearalenone and its derivatives.
- Feed Additive Development for Zearalenone
Our solutions for feed additive development facilitate the assessment of feed additive's efficacy in diminishing zearalenone's adversities on animals, furnishing scientific validation regarding the efficiency and safety of such additives. Promising feed additives designed to counter zearalenone include zearalenone-degrading enzymes, probiotics, and other innovative solutions.
- Development of Biological Detoxification for Zearalenone in Animal Feed
Certain microorganisms (such as Streptomyces rimosus, Bacillus licheniformis, Lactobacillus rhamnosus) and enzymes (like zearalenone hydrolase) have the capability to transform zearalenone into alternative forms utilizing biological mechanisms. The effectiveness of this degradation process may rely on factors such as the zearalenone type and concentration, the characteristics of the microbial strains and enzymes involved, and the prevailing environmental conditions. We offer comprehensive solutions for developing these biological detoxification methods, encompassing end-to-end technical services and product offerings.
- Animal Research Solutions for Zearalenone
Within animals, zearalenone undergoes a series of intricate metabolic transformations. Our diverse in vitro and in vivo animal models, inclusive of an extensive range of animal species, enable us to scrutinize the metabolism of zearalenone across different animals. Through these animal studies, we can assess the efficiency of feed additives or biological interventions in mitigating the adverse impacts of zearalenone on animals.
For more information about our animal research solutions, please visit the following links.
Service Workflow of Feed Zearalenone Solution
Related Research
In a study assessing the in vitro mechanism of zearalenone (ZEN) removal by plant-derived Lactobacillus plantarum BCC 47723, comprehensive experiments were conducted to evaluate ZEN binding capacity, degradation kinetics, and the physicochemical nature of the interaction between the bacterial cells and the toxin. L. plantarum BCC 47723 demonstrated a ZEN removal rate of 88.4% within 48 h at 37°C in MRS broth containing 10 μg/mL ZEN. Heat-killed cells (121°C, 15 min) retained 82.1% of the ZEN removal capacity of viable cells, indicating that binding rather than metabolic degradation was the primary removal mechanism. Acid and alkali pretreatment of bacterial cells revealed that ZEN binding was predominantly mediated by cell wall components, with proteinase K-treated cells retaining >75% binding capacity while muramidase-treated cells showed 43.2% reduction in binding, suggesting that peptidoglycan plays a key structural role. FTIR spectroscopy analysis identified hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonding as the primary forces mediating ZEN adsorption to the bacterial cell wall, with characteristic shifts in amide I and amide II bands indicating protein–toxin interactions. Scanning electron microscopy revealed surface morphological changes on bacterial cells following ZEN exposure, including increased surface roughness and irregularities consistent with toxin adsorption. The binding was reversible under acidic conditions (pH 2.0), with 34.6% desorption observed, while alkaline conditions (pH 8.0) promoted stronger binding. L. plantarum BCC 47723 also demonstrated significant co-binding capacity for ZEN and α-zearalenol (α-ZOL), the more estrogenic metabolite of ZEN, with removal rates of 88.4% and 79.3%, respectively. This work elucidates the molecular mechanism of ZEN removal by Lactobacillus, establishing that cell wall peptidoglycan-mediated hydrophobic binding represents the principal detoxification pathway, and that food-grade Lactobacillus strains offer a safe, biological approach for reducing ZEN bioavailability in contaminated feed through non-metabolic adsorption.
Fig. 2 Percentage of ZEA removal from buffer solution by plant-derived LAB.1,3
Why Choose Us?
We provide a wide range of rapid and accurate feed mycotoxin assays for both qualitative and quantitative detection of zearalenone and its derivatives.
Our selection of in vivo and in vitro animal models includes livestock, poultry, and companion animals, allowing for thorough evaluation of the safety and efficacy of zearalenone detoxification feed additives or biological processes.
Our omics research platform supports studies in animal microbiomics, metabolomics, proteomics, and more. This helps animal nutrition researchers develop comprehensive feed zearalenone solutions.
Case Study
Researchers developed and validated a comprehensive biodegradation strategy for zearalenone (ZEA) contamination in animal feed, focusing on the critical challenge of managing ZEA's estrogenic metabolite profile—where the phase I metabolite α-zearalenol (α-ZOL) exhibits even higher estrogenic receptor binding affinity than the parent toxin itself. A tailored microbial consortium incorporating zearalenone-hydrolyzing enzymes alongside selected detoxifying strains was optimized to drive ZEA metabolism toward non-estrogenic end products while minimizing accumulation of the highly estrogenic α-ZOL intermediate. The stacked area transformation profile across a 48-hour biodegradation time course revealed a complete metabolic reshaping: initial ZEA abundance at 100% declined progressively to only 3% by treatment completion, with transient α-ZOL peaking at 22% at the 12-hour midpoint before being further metabolized—demonstrating effective kinetic control over the high-risk intermediate. This metabolic steering approach was subsequently validated through in vivo trials across swine (the most susceptible species), poultry, cattle, and companion animals, confirming significant recovery of reproductive parameters—including normalized estrous cycles, restored fertility rates, reduced vulvar swelling, and improved reproductive organ histology—while LC-MS/MS monitoring confirmed residual ZEA and α-ZOL levels fell below established safety thresholds in all treated feed materials.
Fig. 3 Case Study
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ 1: What types of feed samples are suitable for zearalenone analysis?
A: Our zearalenone testing and mitigation solution accommodates a wide variety of matrix types, including cereal grains (such as corn, wheat, and barley), complete compounded feeds, and silage ingredients. To ensure accurate quantification, samples should be thoroughly homogenized and representative of the entire lot. If you are working with unconventional matrices or liquid feed additives, please consult our technical support team to determine the optimal sample preparation protocol.
FAQ 2: How should feed samples be collected and shipped to your laboratory?
A: Representative sampling is critical for mycotoxin analysis due to uneven distribution in feed piles. We recommend taking multiple subsamples from various points to form a composite sample of approximately 500 grams. Samples should be packed in clean, moisture-proof paper or plastic bags and shipped at ambient temperature unless they contain high moisture, in which case refrigeration or freezing is advised to prevent mold growth during transit.
FAQ 3: What analytical techniques are utilized to detect zearalenone in feed?
A: Depending on your project requirements and precision needs, we employ established analytical platforms such as high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) and sensitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). These methods allow for reliable detection and quantification of zearalenone and its metabolites across a broad linear range, ensuring compliance with relevant feed safety regulations and standards.
Zearalenone and its derivatives are structurally akin to endogenous estrogens, enabling them to specifically bind to estrogen receptors. This can induce various reproductive toxicities and teratogenic effects. BioVenic's solution aims to develop feed additives or biological processes that mitigate the impact of zearalenone on animal health. This is achieved using feed zearalenone analysis technology, animal studies, and metabolite analysis. If you are interested in our Feed Zearalenone Solution, please contact us with your research plan. We are committed to providing you with timely and valuable feedback.
References
- Image retrieved from Figure 1 "Chemical structures of zearalenone and its derivatives: a) zearalenone (ZEA), b) α-zearalenol (α-ZOL), c) β-zearalenol (β-ZOL), d) zearalanone (ZAN), e) α-zearalanol (α-ZAL), f) β-zearalanol (β-ZAL)" Minervini et al., 2008, used under CC BY 3.0. The original title was changed to "Chemical structures of zearalenone and its derivatives".
- Minervini, Fiorenza, and Maria Elena Dell'Aquila. "Zearalenone and reproductive function in farm animals." International journal of molecular sciences 9.12 (2008): 2570-2584. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms9122570. Distributed under Open Access license CC BY 3.0.
- Adunphatcharaphon, Saowalak, Awanwee Petchkongkaew, and Wonnop Visessanguan. "In vitro mechanism assessment of zearalenone removal by plant-derived Lactobacillus plantarum BCC 47723." Toxins 13.4 (2021): 286. https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins13040286. Distributed under Open Access license CC BY 4.0. Without modification.