VIBS 222: Aflatoxins and Ergot

What are AFLATOXINS?

a series of mycological protoxicants/procarcinogens

What are aflatoxins IARC classification?

Group 1

How are aflatoxins PRODUCED?

aspergillus genus of fungi

flavus and parasiticus

What CROPS do aflatoxins affect?

corn

peanuts

What is the most COMMON and TOXIC aflatoxin?

B1

What are aflatoxin M1 and M2?

metabolites found in milk and urine of animals

What are some PRE-HARVEST risk factors for aflatoxin formation?

climate (hot and humid)

soil type

crop susceptibility

What are some POST-HARVEST risk factors for aflatoxin formation?

poor storage

handling practices

What NATIONS is aflatoxins common in?

sub-saharan africa

southeast asia

What happens if a crop is found to HAVE aflatoxins?

required to be destroyed

What is the SUB-SAHARAN cost of aflatoxins?

100 million in peanut trade

What is the GLOBAL cost of aflatoxins?

2 billion

What is the PRIMARY exposure of aflatoxins in humans and animals?

dietary

What are some EXAMPLES of aflatoxins exposure routes?

corn and peanuts

meat, eggs and dairy from infected animals

Who are most AT-RISK for aflatoxins?

children

pregnant women

immunocompromised

Can aflatoxins be passed from MOM to BABY?

yes

What are some IMPACTS of aflatoxins on human health?

myocardial cell apoptosis

neurodegeneration

liver injury

Aflatoxin contamination is MOST likely to occur in?

hot and humid climates

What is a PROTOXICANT?

substances whose parent form is non-toxic but is metabolized into an active toxic form

What is the main METABOLIZERS in aflatoxins?

cytochrome P450 enzymes