Health Concerns Associated with Mycotoxins
Understanding the health implications of mycotoxin exposure is paramount. Mycotoxins, toxic secondary metabolites produced by certain moulds (fungi), can lead to various health issues.
The severity of these health effects is contingent upon factors such as the type and amount of mycotoxin, the duration of exposure, and individual susceptibility. Here are some health concerns linked to specific mycotoxins:
Aflatoxins
Produced by: Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus.
Linked to: Liver damage, hepatocellular carcinoma (a type of liver cancer), immune system suppression, and growth impairment in children. Aflatoxins are potent carcinogens.
Ochratoxin
Produced by: Aspergillus and Penicillium species.
Linked to: Nephrotoxicity (kidney damage), immunotoxicity, and potential carcinogenic effects. It has been associated with Balkan Endemic Nephropathy (BEN), a kidney disease.
Trichothecenes
Produced by: Various Fusarium species.
Linked to: Immunotoxicity, gastrointestinal issues, and skin-related problems. Some trichothecenes can inhibit protein synthesis and have been associated with outbreaks of alimentary toxic aleukia.
Zearalenone
Produced by: Fusarium species.
Linked to: Endocrine-disrupting effects, particularly estrogenic effects. It can impact reproductive health in animals and potentially humans.
Fumonisins
Produced by: Fusarium species, particularly Fusarium verticillioides.
Linked to: Hepatotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and esophageal cancer in certain regions. Fumonisins are also associated with equine leukoencephalomalacia (a neurological disease in horses).