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A mycotoxin (from the Greek μύκης mykes, "fungus" and τοξικός toxikos, "poisonous") [1] [2] is a toxic secondary metabolite produced by fungi [3] [4] and is capable of causing disease and death in both humans and other animals.
Temperature, water activity and pH, strongly influence mycotoxin biosynthesis by increasing the level of transcription within the fungal spore. It has also been found that low levels of fungicides can boost mycotoxin synthesis. [39] [40] Certain mycotoxins can be harmful or lethal to humans and animals when exposure is high enough. [41] [42]
One generally accepted theory is that some species of mold release small molecules called mycotoxins, which can trigger reactions in certain mold-sensitive people. Another theory suggests that ...
Some mold produce mycotoxins, chemical components of their cell walls, that can pose serious health risks to humans and animals. "Toxic mold" refers to mold which produce mycotoxins, such as Stachybotrys chartarum. [7] [dubious – discuss] Exposure to high levels of mycotoxins can lead to neurological disorders and death [citation needed ...
Aflatoxin B 1 is considered the most toxic and is produced by both Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. Aflatoxin M 1 is present in the fermentation broth of Aspergillus parasiticus, but it and aflatoxin M 2 are also produced when an infected liver metabolizes aflatoxin B 1 and B 2.
When compared to other trichothecene mycotoxins which can form in grains and forages, vomitoxin is relatively mild. Reduced feed intake, with its accompanying decrease in performance, is the only symptom of vomitoxin toxicity livestock producers will likely encounter. This response to vomitoxin appears to occur through the central nervous system.
T-2 mycotoxin is a trichothecene mycotoxin. It is a naturally occurring mold byproduct of Fusarium spp. fungus which is toxic to humans and other animals. The clinical condition it causes is alimentary toxic aleukia and a host of symptoms related to organs as diverse as the skin, airway, and stomach.
In grains and legumes, postharvest disease results in the production of mycotoxins. [3] The largest economic loss caused by this pathogen is a result of aflatoxin production. In the United States, annual economic loss estimations of peanuts, corn, cottonseed, walnuts, and almonds are less severe when compared to Asia and Africa. [4]