Mycotoxin Adsorption with Hemocompatible Porous Polymer Beads

Acute exposure to mycotoxins can lead to systemic toxicity and even death. With no specific treatment available, aflatoxin and trichothecene T-2toxin, in particular, are of concern as potential biological weapons due to their toxicity, thermal and UV stability and easy accessibility. As amedical countermeasure, we propose the development of highly porous polymer beads optimized for removal of aflatoxin and T-2 toxin, based ona proven pore capture and surface adsorption technology platform. Previous work has demonstrated significant removal of aflatoxin from wholeblood in vitro. We hypothesize removal of >90% of toxin levels in circulation by hemoperfusion will have a significant clinical impact on recoveryfrom exposure. In the current submission, we will demonstrate >90% removal of T-2 toxin from blood in vitro in a BSL-3 facility and identify theminimal polymer dosage required to achieve >90% removal of aflatoxin and T2 toxin. In anticipation of Phase II studies, an animal model andtesting facility will be selected and specific protocols submitted for IACUC approval. The outcome will be the demonstration of a safe and effectivemethod for removal of aflatoxin and T-2 toxin from blood, a currently unaddressed area of relevance for biological warfare defense.