Malays. J. Anal. Sci. Volume 30 Number 2 (2026): 1707

 

Review Article

 

Innovative adsorbent materials for the mitigation and analysis of paralytic shellfish toxin contamination: An updated mini review 2023-2025

 

NyukTing Ng1, Nur ‘Afifah Md Yusoff 1, Lai Zhi Bong1, Zi Khang Chew1, Nur Safwati Mohd Nor2, and Aemi Syazwani Abdul Keyon1,3*

 

1 Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 UTM, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

2 Department of Applied Mechanics and Design, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi  Malaysia, 81310 UTM, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

3 Centre for Sustainable Nanomaterials (CSNano), Ibnu Sina Institute for Scientific and Industrial Research, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 UTM, Johor Bahru Johor, Malaysia

 

*Corresponding author: aemi@utm.my

 

Received: 24 September 2025; Revised: 2 March 2026; Accepted: 6 April 2026; Published: 28 April 2026

 

Abstract

Paralytic shellfish toxins (PSTs), potent neurotoxins produced by harmful algal blooms, threaten marine ecosystems, human health and seafood safety. Saxitoxin and its analogues are particularly concerning due to their extreme toxicity, persistence and bioaccumulation potential. Effective methods for removing and analyzing PSTs in contaminated water and seafood are urgently needed. This mini-review highlights recent innovations in solid-phase adsorption (SPA) as a promising solution. Novel adsorbents, including covalent organic polymers, biochar and silica-chitosan composites, have shown excellent selectivity and efficiency for PST removal. Integration of SPA into analytical processes via solid-phase extraction has significantly improved detection sensitivity and accuracy, supporting more reliable PST monitoring. However, challenges remain, such as adsorbent regeneration and reuse, scalability for large applications and matrix interferences affecting adsorption efficiency. Future research should optimize adsorbent designs for enhanced selectivity and durability, clarify underlying adsorption mechanisms and establish integrated strategies combining SPA with other methods. Addressing these challenges will enhance SPA’s role in mitigating PST risks, ultimately leading to safer water and seafood supplies.

 

Keywords: adsorption, extraction, paralytic shellfish toxins, saxitoxin


 

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