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Musangi CR, Juma BS, Mukhebi DW, Isoe EM, Kibiti CM, Mbinda WM. Aspergillus population diversity and its role in aflatoxin contamination of cashew nuts from coastal Kenya. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0292519. [PMID: 38271327 PMCID: PMC10810534 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Cashew nuts are among the main cash crops in coastal Kenya, due in large part to their high nutritional value. Unfortunately, they also make them highly susceptible to mold contamination, resulting in biodeterioration of the nutritional value and potential contamination with toxic secondary metabolites, such as aflatoxins, that cause them to be rejected for sale at the market. We determined the population diversity of the Aspergillus species and their role in aflatoxin contamination in cashew nuts in selected coastal regions of Kenya. Fifty raw cashew nut samples were collected from post-harvest storage facilities across three counties in Kenya's coastal region and examined for moisture content and the presence of Aspergillus fungi. About 63 presumptive isolates were recovered from the cashew nuts. ITS and 28S rDNA regions were sequenced. The aflD, aflM and aflR genes were amplified to identify the potentially aflatoxigenic from the Aspergillus isolates. The Aflatoxins' presence on the isolates was screened using UV and the ammonia vapour test on coconut milk agar and validated using ELISA assay. A comparison of cashew moisture content between the three counties sampled revealed a significant difference. Sixty-three isolates were recovered and identified to section based on morphological characters and their respective ITS regions were used to obtain species identifications. Three sections from the genus were represented, Flavi and Nigri, and Terrei with isolates from the section Nigri having slightly greater abundance (n = 35). The aflD, aflM and aflR genes were amplified for all isolates to assess the presence of the aflatoxin biosynthesis pathway, indicating the potential for aflatoxin production. Less than half of the Aspergillus isolates (39.68%) contained the aflatoxin pathway genes, while 22.22% isolates were aflatoxigenic, which included only the section Flavi isolates. Section Flavi isolates identification was confirmed by calmodulin gene. The presence of species from Aspergillus section Flavi and section Nigri indicate the potential for aflatoxin or ochratoxin in the cashew nuts. The study established a foundation for future investigations of the fungi and mycotoxins contaminating cashew nuts in Kenya, which necessitates developing strategies to prevent infection by mycotoxigenic fungi, especially during the storage and processing phases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colletah Rhoda Musangi
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
- Pwani University Bioscience Research Centre (PUBReC), Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Bicko Steve Juma
- Pwani University Bioscience Research Centre (PUBReC), Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Dennis Wamalabe Mukhebi
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
- Pwani University Bioscience Research Centre (PUBReC), Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Everlyne Moraa Isoe
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Cromwell Mwiti Kibiti
- Department of Pure and Applied Sciences, Technical University of Mombasa, Mombasa, Kenya
| | - Wilton Mwema Mbinda
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
- Pwani University Bioscience Research Centre (PUBReC), Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
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Zhang C, Zhou H, Cao S, Chen J, Qu C, Tang Y, Wang M, Zhu L, Liu X, Zhang J. A Magnetic Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposite: Synthesis, Characterization, and Application for High-Efficiency Detoxification of Aflatoxin B 1. Toxins (Basel) 2024; 16:57. [PMID: 38276533 PMCID: PMC10818925 DOI: 10.3390/toxins16010057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Safety problems associated with aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) contamination have always been a major threat to human health. Removing AFB1 through adsorption is considered an attractive remediation technique. (2) Methods: To produce an adsorbent with a high AFB1 adsorption efficiency, a magnetic reduced graphene oxide composite (Fe3O4@rGO) was synthesized using one-step hydrothermal fabrication. Then, the adsorbent was characterized using a series of techniques, such as SEM, TEM, XRD, FT-IR, VSM, and nitrogen adsorption-desorption analysis. Finally, the effects of this nanocomposite on the nutritional components of treated foods, such as vegetable oil and peanut milk, were also examined. (3) Results: The optimal synthesis conditions for Fe3O4@rGO were determined to be 200 °C for 6 h. The synthesis temperature significantly affected the adsorption properties of the prepared material due to its effect on the layered structure of graphene and the loading of Fe3O4 nanoparticles. The results of various characterizations illustrated that the surface of Fe3O4@rGO had a two-dimensional layered nanostructure with many folds and that Fe3O4 nanoparticles were distributed uniformly on the surface of the composite material. Moreover, the results of isotherm, kinetic, and thermodynamic analyses indicated that the adsorption of AFB1 by Fe3O4@rGO conformed to the Langmuir model, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 82.64 mg·g-1; the rapid and efficient adsorption of AFB1 occurred mainly through chemical adsorption via a spontaneous endothermic process. When applied to treat vegetable oil and peanut milk, the prepared material minimized the loss of nutrients and thus preserved food quality. (4) Conclusions: The above findings reveal a promising adsorbent, Fe3O4@rGO, with favorable properties for AFB1 adsorption and potential for food safety applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chushu Zhang
- Shandong Peanut Research Institute, Key Laboratory of Peanut Biology and Breeding (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs), Qingdao 266100, China; (C.Z.); (H.Z.); (S.C.); (J.C.); (C.Q.); (Y.T.); (M.W.); (L.Z.)
| | - Haixiang Zhou
- Shandong Peanut Research Institute, Key Laboratory of Peanut Biology and Breeding (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs), Qingdao 266100, China; (C.Z.); (H.Z.); (S.C.); (J.C.); (C.Q.); (Y.T.); (M.W.); (L.Z.)
| | - Shining Cao
- Shandong Peanut Research Institute, Key Laboratory of Peanut Biology and Breeding (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs), Qingdao 266100, China; (C.Z.); (H.Z.); (S.C.); (J.C.); (C.Q.); (Y.T.); (M.W.); (L.Z.)
| | - Jing Chen
- Shandong Peanut Research Institute, Key Laboratory of Peanut Biology and Breeding (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs), Qingdao 266100, China; (C.Z.); (H.Z.); (S.C.); (J.C.); (C.Q.); (Y.T.); (M.W.); (L.Z.)
| | - Chunjuan Qu
- Shandong Peanut Research Institute, Key Laboratory of Peanut Biology and Breeding (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs), Qingdao 266100, China; (C.Z.); (H.Z.); (S.C.); (J.C.); (C.Q.); (Y.T.); (M.W.); (L.Z.)
| | - Yueyi Tang
- Shandong Peanut Research Institute, Key Laboratory of Peanut Biology and Breeding (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs), Qingdao 266100, China; (C.Z.); (H.Z.); (S.C.); (J.C.); (C.Q.); (Y.T.); (M.W.); (L.Z.)
| | - Mian Wang
- Shandong Peanut Research Institute, Key Laboratory of Peanut Biology and Breeding (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs), Qingdao 266100, China; (C.Z.); (H.Z.); (S.C.); (J.C.); (C.Q.); (Y.T.); (M.W.); (L.Z.)
| | - Lifei Zhu
- Shandong Peanut Research Institute, Key Laboratory of Peanut Biology and Breeding (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs), Qingdao 266100, China; (C.Z.); (H.Z.); (S.C.); (J.C.); (C.Q.); (Y.T.); (M.W.); (L.Z.)
| | - Xiaoyue Liu
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Liaoning Technical University, Fuxin 125105, China;
| | - Jiancheng Zhang
- Shandong Peanut Research Institute, Key Laboratory of Peanut Biology and Breeding (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs), Qingdao 266100, China; (C.Z.); (H.Z.); (S.C.); (J.C.); (C.Q.); (Y.T.); (M.W.); (L.Z.)
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Mendonça CMN, Oliveira RC, Pizauro LJL, Pereira WA, Abboud K, Almeida S, Watanabe IS, Varani AM, Domínguez JM, Correa B, Venema K, Azevedo POS, Oliveira RPS. Tracking new insights into antifungal and anti-mycotoxigenic properties of a biofilm forming Pediococcus pentosaceus strain isolated from grain silage. Int J Food Microbiol 2023; 405:110337. [PMID: 37506547 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2023.110337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
The present study offers detailed insights into the antifungal and anti-mycotoxigenic potential of a biofilm forming lactic acid bacterium (Pediococcus pentosaceus) against one atoxigenic (Aspergillus flavus) and two toxigenic (Aspergillus nomius and Fusarium verticillioides) fungal strains. The antifungal effect of P. pentosaceus LBM18 strain was initially investigated through comparative analysis of fungi physiology by macroscopic visual evaluations and scanning electron microscopy examinations. The effects over fungal growth rate and asexual sporulation were additionally accessed. Furthermore, analytical evaluations of mycotoxin production were carried out by HPLC-MS/MS to provide insights on the bacterial anti-mycotoxigenic activity over fungal production of the aflatoxins B1, B2, G1 and G2 as well as fumonisins B1 and B2. Finally, reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) analysis was employed at the most effective bacterial inoculant concentration to evaluate, at the molecular level, the down-regulation of genes aflR, aflQ and aflD, related to the biosynthesis of aflatoxins by the strain of Aspergillus nomius. The effects over mycotoxin contamination were thought to be result of a combination of several biotic and abiotic factors, such as interaction between living beings and physical-chemical aspects of the environment, respectively. Several possible mechanisms of action were addressed along with potentially deleterious effects ascribing from P. pentosaceus misuse as biopesticide, emphasizing the importance of evaluating lactic acid bacteria safety in new applications, concentrations, and exposure scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos M N Mendonça
- Laboratory of Microbial Biomolecules, Department of Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Technology, University of São Paulo, 05508-000 São Paulo, Brazil; Centre for Healthy Eating and Food Innovation (HEFI), Faculty of Science and Engineering, Maastricht University - campus Venlo, Villafloraweg 1, 5928 SZ Venlo, the Netherlands
| | - Rodrigo C Oliveira
- Laboratory of Microbial Biomolecules, Department of Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Technology, University of São Paulo, 05508-000 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lucas J L Pizauro
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Biotechnology, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences (FCAV), UNESP, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Wellison A Pereira
- Laboratory of Microbial Biomolecules, Department of Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Technology, University of São Paulo, 05508-000 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Kahlile Abboud
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Biotechnology, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences (FCAV), UNESP, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Sonia Almeida
- Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, 05508-000 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ii-Sei Watanabe
- Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, 05508-000 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alessandro M Varani
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Biotechnology, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences (FCAV), UNESP, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - José M Domínguez
- Industrial Biotechnology and Environmental Engineering Group "BiotecnIA", Chemical Engineering Department, University of Vigo (Campus Ourense), As Lagoas s/n, 32004 Ourense, Spain
| | - Benedito Correa
- Laboratory of Mycotoxins and Toxigenic Fungi, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, 05508-900 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Koen Venema
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Biotechnology, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences (FCAV), UNESP, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Pamela O S Azevedo
- Laboratory of Microbial Biomolecules, Department of Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Technology, University of São Paulo, 05508-000 São Paulo, Brazil; SAZ Animal Nutrition, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ricardo P S Oliveira
- Laboratory of Microbial Biomolecules, Department of Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Technology, University of São Paulo, 05508-000 São Paulo, Brazil.
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Rahman KU, Ali K, Rauf M, Arif M. Aspergillus nomiae and fumigatus Ameliorating the Hypoxic Stress Induced by Waterlogging through Ethylene Metabolism in Zea mays L. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2025. [PMID: 37630585 PMCID: PMC10459883 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11082025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Transient and prolonged waterlogging stress (WS) stimulates ethylene (ET) generation in plants, but their reprogramming is critical in determining the plants' fate under WS, which can be combated by the application of symbiotically associated beneficial microbes that induce resistance to WS. The present research was rationalized to explore the potential of the newly isolated 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) deaminase-producing fungal endophytic consortium of Aspergillus nomiae (MA1) and Aspergillus fumigatus (MA4) on maize growth promotion under WS. MA1 and MA4 were isolated from the seeds of Moringa oleifera L., which ably produced a sufficient amount of IAA, proline, phenols, and flavonoids. MA1 and MA4 proficiently colonized the root zone of maize (Zea mays L.). The symbiotic association of MA1 and MA4 promoted the growth response of maize compared with the non-inoculated plants under WS stress. Moreover, MA1- and MA4-inoculated maize plants enhanced the production of total soluble protein, sugar, lipids, phenolics, and flavonoids, with a reduction in proline content and H2O2 production. MA1- and MA4-inoculated maize plants showed an increase in the DPPH activity and antioxidant enzyme activities of CAT and POD, along with an increased level of hormonal content (GA3 and IAA) and decreased ABA and ACC contents. Optimal stomatal activity in leaf tissue and adventitious root formation at the root/stem junction was increased in MA1- and MA4-inoculated maize plants, with reduced lysigenous aerenchyma formation, ratio of cortex-to-stele, water-filled cells, and cell gaps within roots; increased tight and round cells; and intact cortical cells without damage. MA1 and MA4 induced a reduction in deformed mesophyll cells, and deteriorated epidermal and vascular bundle cells, as well as swollen metaxylem, phloem, pith, and cortical area, in maize plants under WS compared with control. Moreover, the transcript abundance of ethylene-responsive gene ZmEREB180, responsible for the induction of the WS tolerance in maize, showed optimally reduced expression sufficient for induction in WS tolerance, in MA1- and MA4-inoculated maize plants under WS compared with the non-inoculated control. The existing research supported the use of MA1 and MA4 isolates for establishing the bipartite mutualistic symbiosis in maize to assuage the adverse effects of WS by optimizing ethylene production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalil Ur Rahman
- Department of Biotechnology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan 23200, Pakistan;
| | - Kashmala Ali
- Department of Botany, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan 23200, Pakistan;
| | - Mamoona Rauf
- Department of Botany, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan 23200, Pakistan;
| | - Muhammad Arif
- Department of Biotechnology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan 23200, Pakistan;
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Katati B, Kovacs S, Njapau H, Kachapulula PW, Zwaan BJ, van Diepeningen AD, Schoustra SE. Aflatoxigenic Aspergillus Modulates Aflatoxin-B1 Levels through an Antioxidative Mechanism. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:690. [PMID: 37367626 DOI: 10.3390/jof9060690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Aflatoxins (AFs) are considered to play important functions in species of Aspergillus section Flavi including an antioxidative role, as a deterrent against fungivorous insects, and in antibiosis. Atoxigenic Flavi are known to degrade AF-B1 (B1). To better understand the purpose of AF degradation, we investigated the degradation of B1 and AF-G1 (G1) in an antioxidative role in Flavi. Atoxigenic and toxigenic Flavi were treated with artificial B1 and G1 with or without the antioxidant selenium (Se), which is expected to affect levels of AF. After incubations, AF levels were measured by HPLC. To estimate which population would likely be favoured between toxigenic and atoxigenic Flavi under Se, we investigated the fitness, by spore count, of the Flavi as a result of exposure to 0, 0.40, and 0.86 µg/g Se in 3%-sucrose cornmeal agar (3gCMA). Results showed that levels B1 in medium without Se were reduced in all isolates, while G1 did not significantly change. When the medium was treated with Se, toxigenic Flavi significantly digested less B1, while levels of G1 significantly increased. Se did not affect the digestion of B1 in atoxigenic Flavi, and also did not alter levels of G1. Furthermore, atoxigenic strains were significantly fitter than toxigenic strains at Se 0.86 µg/g 3gCMA. Findings show that while atoxigenic Flavi degraded B1, toxigenic Flavi modulated its levels through an antioxidative mechanism to levels less than they produced. Furthermore, B1 was preferred in the antioxidative role compared to G1 in the toxigenic isolates. The higher fitness of atoxigenic over toxigenic counterparts at a plant non-lethal dose of 0.86 µg/g would be a useful attribute for integration in the broader biocontrol prospects of toxigenic Flavi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bwalya Katati
- Laboratory of Genetics, Wageningen University and Research, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Mycotoxicology Laboratory, National Institute for Scientific and Industrial Research, Lusaka 310158, Zambia
| | - Stan Kovacs
- Laboratory of Genetics, Wageningen University and Research, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Henry Njapau
- Mycotoxicology Laboratory, National Institute for Scientific and Industrial Research, Lusaka 310158, Zambia
| | - Paul W Kachapulula
- School of Agricultural Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
| | - Bas J Zwaan
- Laboratory of Genetics, Wageningen University and Research, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Anne D van Diepeningen
- Biointeractions and Plant Health, Wageningen University and Research, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sijmen E Schoustra
- Laboratory of Genetics, Wageningen University and Research, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands
- School of Agricultural Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
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Loi M, Logrieco AF, Pusztahelyi T, Leiter É, Hornok L, Pócsi I. Advanced mycotoxin control and decontamination techniques in view of an increased aflatoxin risk in Europe due to climate change. Front Microbiol 2023; 13:1085891. [PMID: 36762096 PMCID: PMC9907446 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1085891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Aflatoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by Aspergillus spp. found in staple food and feed commodities worldwide. Aflatoxins are carcinogenic, teratogenic, and mutagenic, and pose a serious threat to the health of both humans and animals. The global economy and trade are significantly affected as well. Various models and datasets related to aflatoxins in maize have been developed and used but have not yet been linked. The prevention of crop loss due to aflatoxin contamination is complex and challenging. Hence, the set-up of advanced decontamination is crucial to cope with the challenge of climate change, growing population, unstable political scenarios, and food security problems also in European countries. After harvest, decontamination methods can be applied during transport, storage, or processing, but their application for aflatoxin reduction is still limited. Therefore, this review aims to investigate the effects of environmental factors on aflatoxin production because of climate change and to critically discuss the present-day and novel decontamination techniques to unravel gaps and limitations to propose them as a tool to tackle an increased aflatoxin risk in Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Loi
- Institute of Sciences of Food Production, National Research Council, Bari, Italy,*Correspondence: Martina Loi, ✉
| | - Antonio F. Logrieco
- Institute of Sciences of Food Production, National Research Council, Bari, Italy
| | - Tünde Pusztahelyi
- Central Laboratory of Agricultural and Food Products, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences and Environmental Management, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Éva Leiter
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Institute of Biotechnology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary,ELRN-UD Fungal Stress Biology Research Group, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - László Hornok
- Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Gödöllő, Hungary
| | - István Pócsi
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Institute of Biotechnology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary,ELRN-UD Fungal Stress Biology Research Group, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
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Comprehensive Review of Aflatoxin Contamination, Impact on Health and Food Security, and Management Strategies in Pakistan. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14120845. [PMID: 36548742 PMCID: PMC9781569 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14120845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Aflatoxins (AFs) are the most important toxic, mutagenic, and carcinogenic fungal toxins that routinely contaminate food and feed. While more than 20 AFs have been identified to date, aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), B2 (AFB2), G1 (AFG1), G2 (AFG2), and M1 (AFM1) are the most common. Over 25 species of Aspergillus have been shown to produce AFs, with Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus parasiticus, and Aspergillus nomius being the most important and well-known AF-producing fungi. These ubiquitous molds can propagate on agricultural commodities to produce AFs in fields and during harvesting, processing, transportation, and storage. Countries with warmer climates and that produce foods susceptible to AF contamination shoulder a substantial portion of the global AF burden. Pakistan's warm climate promotes the growth of toxigenic fungi, resulting in frequent AF contamination of human foods and animal feeds. The potential for contamination in Pakistan is exacerbated by improper storage conditions and a lack of regulatory limits and enforcement mechanisms. High levels of AFs in common commodities produced in Pakistan are a major food safety problem, posing serious health risks to the population. Furthermore, aflatoxin contamination contributes to economic losses by limiting exports of these commodities. In this review, recent information regarding the fungal producers of AFs, prevalence of AF contamination of foods and feed, current regulations, and AF prevention and removal strategies are summarized, with a major focus on Pakistan.
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Wang X, Ding X, Fu K, Guo W, Zhan F, Yuan Z, Jia Z, Zhou L, Jiang X, Ghenijan O, Li Z, Dai J, Xie Y, Wang Z, Xinping Y. Molecular Identification and Efficacy of Entomopathogenic Fungi Isolates Against Larvae of the Asian Corn Borer
Ostrinia furnacalis
(Lepidoptera: Crambidae) in Xinjiang, China. J Appl Microbiol 2022; 133:2979-2992. [DOI: 10.1111/jam.15749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowu Wang
- Institute of Microbiology Applications, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences PR China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in Northwestern Oasis Ministry of Agriculture Ürümqi PR China
| | - Xinhua Ding
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in Northwestern Oasis Ministry of Agriculture Ürümqi PR China
- Institute of Plant Protection, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences Ürümqi PR China
| | - Kaiyun Fu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in Northwestern Oasis Ministry of Agriculture Ürümqi PR China
- Institute of Plant Protection, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences Ürümqi PR China
| | - Wenchao Guo
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in Northwestern Oasis Ministry of Agriculture Ürümqi PR China
- Institute of Plant Protection, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences Ürümqi PR China
| | - Faqiang Zhan
- Institute of Microbiology Applications, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences PR China
| | - Zihan Yuan
- College of Agriculture Xinjiang Agricultural University Ürümqi PR China
| | - Zunzun Jia
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in Northwestern Oasis Ministry of Agriculture Ürümqi PR China
- Institute of Plant Protection, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences Ürümqi PR China
| | - Liuyan Zhou
- Institute of Microbiology Applications, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences PR China
| | - Xudong Jiang
- College of Agriculture Xinjiang Agricultural University Ürümqi PR China
| | - Osman Ghenijan
- Institute of Microbiology Applications, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences PR China
| | - Zhi Li
- Institute of Agricultural Economics and Technology Information, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences Ürümqi PR China
| | - Jinping Dai
- Institute of Microbiology Applications, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences PR China
| | - Yuqing Xie
- Institute of Microbiology Applications, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences PR China
| | - Zhifang Wang
- Institute of Microbiology Applications, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences PR China
| | - Yang Xinping
- Institute of Microbiology Applications, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences PR China
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Corrêa ANR, Ferreira CD. Mycotoxins in Grains and Cereals Intended for Human Consumption: Brazilian Legislation, Occurrence Above Maximum Levels and Co-Occurrence. FOOD REVIEWS INTERNATIONAL 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/87559129.2022.2098318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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10
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Natarajan S, Balachandar D, Senthil N, Paranidharan V. Interaction of water activity and temperature on growth, gene expression, and aflatoxin B 1 production in Aspergillus flavus on Indian senna (Cassia angustifolia Vahl.). Int J Food Microbiol 2022; 361:109457. [PMID: 34742145 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2021.109457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Senna (Cassia angustifolia Vahl.) is a medicinal crop with laxative properties, and it has significant demand in the global pharmaceutical market. Senna pods are highly susceptible to aflatoxin contamination, and the successful export of pods is hindered due to the regulatory limits of importing countries. The senna pod water activity (aw) from harvest to storage is the key factor determining AFB1 accumulation. The temperature conditions from field to warehouse also interact with pod aw, which influences fungal growth and AFB1 production. The determination of an ideal combination of aw and temperature led to the assessment of the critical control point for AFB1 synthesis in senna. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the influence of aw (0.99, 0.96, 0.93, 0.90, and 0.87 aw) and temperature (20, 28, and 37 °C) on fungal growth, gene expression (aflR and aflS), and AFB1 production by A. flavus in senna agar medium. The fungus showed the longest lag time (7.7 days) at 20 °C with 0.87 aw. We observed that 0.96 aw (P < 0.01) was optimum for the diametric growth rate at 28 and 37 °C. However, the peak expression of regulatory genes (aflR and aflS) and the maximum AFB1 production were observed only at 28 °C (0.96 aw). The highest growth rate occurred at 37 °C, which did not favor the expression of genes and AFB1 production. However, at 28 °C, it positively correlated with gene expression and AFB1 production. The suppressed expression of regulatory genes and a trace amount of aflatoxin B1 were found at 20 °C with all the tested aw. In our experiments, the low aw (0.87 and 0.90 aw) suppressed the fungal growth, gene expression, and AFB1 production of A. flavus at all of the tested temperatures (20, 28, and 37 °C). The rapid drying of senna pods with a low water activity (≤0.87 aw) and storage at low temperature (20 °C) are ideal conditions to avoid AFB1 and ensure the quality of produce for export.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subramani Natarajan
- Department of Plant Pathology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641 003, India
| | - Dananjeyan Balachandar
- Department of Agricultural Microbiology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641 003, India
| | - Natesan Senthil
- Department of Plant Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641 003, India
| | - Vaikuntavasan Paranidharan
- Department of Plant Pathology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641 003, India.
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Reis T, Tralamazza S, Coelho E, Zorzete P, Corrêa B. Early expression of the aflatoxin gene cluster in Aspergillus nomiae isolated from Brazil nut. Toxicon 2022; 209:36-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2022.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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A Novel Fluorescent FRET Hairpin Probe Switch for aflD Gene Detection in Real Fermented Soybean Paste. FOOD ANAL METHOD 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s12161-021-02080-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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13
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A review of mycotoxin biosynthetic pathways: associated genes and their expressions under the influence of climatic factors. FUNGAL BIOL REV 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbr.2021.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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14
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Zareshahrabadi Z, Karimirad M, Pakshir K, Bahmyari R, Motamedi M, Nouraei H, Zomorodian K. Survey of aflatoxins and ochratoxin A contamination in spices by HPLC-based method in Shiraz, Southern of Iran. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:40992-40999. [PMID: 33774787 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-13616-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Among food and agricultural products, spices play important roles in the diets of millions of people worldwide. These products may be colonized by fungi genus and subsequently mycotoxin production. Due to the large demand and supply of spice for cooking, preservative effects, or medicine purpose, it is essential that further investigation is designed to examine mycotoxins in spice. In the present study, the possible contamination of spices by aflatoxins (AFTs) and ochratoxin A (OTA) were analyzed. A total of 80 spice samples (curry, sumac, ginger, and saffron) were purchased and cultured on appropriate medium. Simultaneously mycotoxins from spices were extracted with immunoaffinity columns (IAC), and the occurrence of AFTs (B1 + B2 + G1 + G2) and OTA was then determined using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a fluorescence detector (FD). The results depicted that 62 (77.5%) and 58 (72.5%) spice samples were contaminated with AFTs and OTA, respectively. Out of the 80 analyzed spices samples, the mean concentration of AFTs and OTA was higher in the curry samples. Among spices that contaminated with mycotoxins, 5 (6.25%) and 2 (10%) of the samples were above the acceptable limit of AFTs (≥ 10 μg/kg) and OTA (≥ 15 μg/kg), respectively. Aspergillus species were the predominant species isolated, followed by Penicillium, and finally Mucor species.Among the examined samples, only few curry samples were contaminated with mycotoxins above acceptable limit. Despite this low level of contamination, this spice is used daily in the cuisine of this region of the world, and consequently, even the small amount of these heat stable toxins for a long time may cause many adverse effects. Hence, it is recommended to monitor the toxicogenous fungi contamination and level of mycotoxins in the spices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Zareshahrabadi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mahdieh Karimirad
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Keyvan Pakshir
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Robab Bahmyari
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Marjan Motamedi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hasti Nouraei
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Kamiar Zomorodian
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
- Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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Archer M, Xu J. Current Practices for Reference Gene Selection in RT-qPCR of Aspergillus: Outlook and Recommendations for the Future. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12070960. [PMID: 34202507 PMCID: PMC8307107 DOI: 10.3390/genes12070960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus is a genus of filamentous fungi with vast geographic and ecological distributions. Species within this genus are clinically, agriculturally and biotechnologically relevant, leading to increasing interest in elucidating gene expression dynamics of key metabolic and physiological processes. Reverse-transcription quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR) is a sensitive and specific method of quantifying gene expression. A crucial step for comparing RT-qPCR results between strains and experimental conditions is normalisation to experimentally validated reference gene(s). In this review, we provide a critical analysis of current reference gene selection and validation practices for RT-qPCR gene expression analyses of Aspergillus. Of 90 primary research articles obtained through our PubMed query, 17 experimentally validated the reference gene(s) used. Twenty reference genes were used across the 90 studies, with beta-tubulin being the most used reference gene, followed by actin, 18S rRNA and glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase. Sixteen of the 90 studies used multiple reference genes for normalisation. Failing to experimentally validate the stability of reference genes can lead to conflicting results, as was the case for four studies. Overall, our review highlights the need to experimentally validate reference genes in RT-qPCR studies of Aspergillus.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jianping Xu
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-905-525-9140 (ext. 27934); Fax: +1-905-522-6066
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Pickova D, Ostry V, Malir F. A Recent Overview of Producers and Important Dietary Sources of Aflatoxins. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:186. [PMID: 33802572 PMCID: PMC7998637 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13030186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Aflatoxins (AFs) are some of the most agriculturally important and harmful mycotoxins. At least 20 AFs have been identified to this date. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), the most potent fungal toxin, can cause toxicity in many species, including humans. AFs are produced by 22 species of Aspergillus section Flavi, 4 species of A. section Nidulantes, and 2 species of A. section Ochraceorosei. The most important and well-known AF-producing species of section Flavi are Aspergillus flavus, A. parasiticus, and A. nomius. AFs contaminate a wide range of crops (mainly groundnuts, pistachio nuts, dried figs, hazelnuts, spices, almonds, rice, melon seeds, Brazil nuts, and maize). Foods of animal origin (milk and animal tissues) are less likely contributors to human AF exposure. Despite the efforts to mitigate the AF concentrations in foods, and thus enhance food safety, AFs continue to be present, even at high levels. AFs thus remain a current and continuously pressing problem in the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darina Pickova
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Rokitanskeho 62, CZ-50003 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic; (V.O.); (F.M.)
| | - Vladimir Ostry
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Rokitanskeho 62, CZ-50003 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic; (V.O.); (F.M.)
- Center for Health, Nutrition and Food in Brno, National Institute of Public Health in Prague, Palackeho 3a, CZ-61242 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Frantisek Malir
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Rokitanskeho 62, CZ-50003 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic; (V.O.); (F.M.)
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