Efficacy of modified montmorillonite nanocomposite to reduce the toxicity of aflatoxin in broiler chicks

Beneficial effects of advanced chelate technology-based 7-minerals in aflatoxin-B1 challenged broilers: toxin residue reduction, serum biochemical improvement and modulation of the mRNA expression of NF-kB and Nrf2, and genes within their pathways

BACKGROUND

Organic trace minerals (TM) offer superior nutritional benefits because of their stable structure, making their addition to broiler diets potentially beneficial during challenging periods such as aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) contamination. The present study evaluated the impacts of different replacement levels of inorganic TM (ITM) with advanced chelate technology-based TM (ACTM) on the growth performance, serum biochemical parameters, antioxidant indicators, and some inflammatory and immune parameters of broilers fed diets contaminated with AFB1. A 42-day experiment involved randomly assigning 1-day-old broiler chickens (n = 480) to one of five dietary treatments, each with six replicates. The treatments were as follows: (1) NC: basal diet without AFB1 and recommended ITM levels; (2) PC: basal diet with 0.5 mg kg-1 AFB1 and recommended ITM levels; (3) TB: PC diet +1 g kg-1 toxin binder; (4) ACTM50: replacement of ITM with 50% ACTM in the PC diet; and (5) ACTM100: replacement of ITM with 100% ACTM in the PC diet.

RESULTS

Compared with PC treatment, ACTM100 treatment resulted in increased (P < 0.05) body weight gain, serum zinc and glutathione concentrations, immunoglobulin Y level, antioxidant enzyme activities, and hepatic gene expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, glutathione peroxidase-1, superoxide dismutase-1 and transforming growth factor beta 1. The ACTM100 group also exhibited decreased AFB1 residue in the liver and kidney, serum alanine transaminase activity and malondialdehyde concentration, and hepatic gene expression levels of nuclear factor-kappa B and interferon-gamma (P < 0.05). These values were comparable to those recorded in the TB and NC treatments.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, completely replacing ITM with ACTM can benefit the metabolism and mitigate AFB1-induced immunotoxicity and oxidative damage in chickens by altering the mRNA expression of nuclear factor-kappa B and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, and some genes downstream their signaling pathways. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Compound mycotoxin detoxifier alleviating aflatoxin B1 toxic effects on broiler growth performance, organ damage and gut microbiota

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of compound mycotoxin detoxifier (CMD) on alleviating the toxic effect of aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) for broiler growth performance. One-kilogram CMD consists of 667 g aflatoxin B₁-degrading enzyme (ADE, 1,467 U/g), 200 g montmorillonite and 133 g compound probiotics (CP). The feeding experiment was divided into 2 stages (1-21 d and 22-42 d). In the early stage, a total of 300 one-day-old Ross broilers were randomly divided into 6 groups, 5 replications for each group, 10 broilers (half male and half female) in each replication. In the later feeding stage, about 240 twenty-two-day-old Ross broilers were randomly divided into 6 groups, 8 replications for each group, 5 broilers in each replication. Group A: basal diet; group B: basal diet with 40 μg/kg AFB₁; group C: basal diet with 1 g/kg CMD; groups D, E, and F: basal diet with 40 μg/kg AFB₁ plus 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 g/kg CMD, respectively. The results indicated that AFB₁ significantly decreased average daily gain (ADG), protein metabolic rate, organ index of thymus, bursa of Fabricius (BF), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) and catalase activities in serum, and increased AFB₁ residues in serum and liver (P < 0.05). Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) staining analysis of jejunum, liver and kidney showed that AFB₁ caused the main pathological changes with different degrees of inflammatory cell infiltration. However, CMD additions could alleviate the negative effects of AFB₁ on the above parameters. The gut microbiota analysis indicated that AFB₁ could significantly increase the abundances of Staphylococcus-xylosu, Esherichia-coli-g-Escherichia-Shigella, and decrease Lactobacillus-aviarius abundance (P < 0.05), but which were adjusted to almost the same levels as the control group by CMD addition. The correlative analysis showed that Lactobacillus-aviarius abundance was positively correlated with ADG, SOD and BF (P < 0.05), whereas Staphylococcus-xylosus abundance was positively correlated with AFB₁ residues in serum and liver (P < 0.05). In conclusion, CMD could keep gut microbiota stable, alleviate histological lesions, increase growth performance, and reduce mycotoxin toxicity. The optimal CMD addition should be 1 g/kg in AFB₁-contaminated broilers diet.

Effects of tannic acid on growth performance, relative organ weight, antioxidative status, and intestinal histomorphology in broilers exposed to aflatoxin B1

A total of 480 one-day-old AA broiler chicks were randomly allocated to one of four treatments in a 2 × 2 factorial to investigate the effects of tannic acid (TA) on growth performance, relative organ weight, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal health in broilers dietary exposed to aflatoxin B1 (AFB1). Treatments were as follows: (1) CON, control diet; (2) TA, CON + 250 mg/kg TA; (3) AFB1, CON + 500 μg/kg AFB1; and (4) TA+AFB1, CON + 250 mg/kg TA + 500 μg/kg AFB1. There were 10 replicate pens with 12 broilers per replicate. Dietary AFB1 challenge increased the feed conversion ratio during days 1 to 21 (P < 0.05). The TA in the diet did not show significant effects on the growth performance of broilers during the whole experiment period (P > 0.05). The liver and kidney relative weight was increased in the AF challenge groups compared with the CON (P < 0.05). The addition of TA could alleviate the relative weight increase of liver and kidney caused by AFB1 (P < 0.05). Broilers fed the AFB1 diets had lower activity of glutathione peroxidase, catalase, total superoxide dismutase, S-transferase, and total antioxidant capacity in plasma, liver and jejunum, and greater malondialdehyde content (P < 0.05). Dietary supplemented with 250 mg/kg TA increased the activities of antioxidative enzymes, and decreased malondialdehyde content (P < 0.05). In addition, AFB1 significantly reduced the villus height and crypt depth ratio in the ileum on day 42 (P < 0.05). In conclusion, supplementation with 250 mg/kg TA could partially protect the antioxidant capacity and prevent the enlargement of liver in broilers dietary challenged with 500 μg/kg AFB1.

Mentha piperita as a promising feed additive used to protect liver, bone, and meat of Japanese quail against aflatoxin B1

The present study was conducted to evaluate aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) detoxification effects of some medicinal plants under both in vitro and in vivo. The in vitro experiment was performed with 25 treatments in 5 replications. The samples of medicinal plants were incubated with AFB₁ for 72 h, and the toxin residual in the supernatant was determined. The highest aflatoxin elimination was found to be related to peppermint (81%). Thereafter, in vivo experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of peppermint dried leaves, essential oil, and menthol on liver, bone, and meat, as well as the performance of growing Japanese quail fed diet contaminated with AFB₁. A total of 640 7-day-old Japanese quails were assigned using a completely randomized design as 2 × 4 factorial arrangement with two levels of AFB₁ (including 0 and 2.5 mg/kg diet) and four treatments (including no additive; peppermint powder, 20 g/kg; peppermint essential oil, 800 mg/kg; and menthol powder, 400 mg/kg). Those birds fed AFB₁-contaminated diet with no additives showed the worst liver health status by considering super oxide dismutase (P = 0.0399), glutathione peroxidase (P = 0.0139), alanine aminotransferase (P < 0.0001), and aspartate aminotransferase levels (P = 0.0512). However, the supplementation of AFB₁ contaminated diet with additives improved their liver health status. Menthol receiving birds showed the highest tibia strength, while the birds fed with AFB₁-contaminated diet with no additives had the weakest bone strength (P < 0.0001). A significant increase was also observed in malondialdehyde level of meat by dietary inclusion of AFB₁, which was well-repressed by the dietary supplementation of peppermint essential oil and menthol (P = 0.0075). Body weight gain dramatically decreased by adding AFB₁ to the diet, which was recovered with the dietary supplementation of additives (P = 0.0585). According to the results of the current study, peppermint and its derivatives can be used to suppress aflatoxin effects on the liver, bone, and meat quality and to improve the performance of Japanese quails.

Evaluation of Growth Performance, Nitrogen Balance and Blood Metabolites of Mutton Sheep Fed an Ammonia-Treated Aflatoxin B1-Contaminated Diet

Experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of an aflatoxin B1 (AFB1)-contaminated diet treated with ammonia on the diet detoxification and growth performance, nutrient digestibility, nitrogen utilization, and blood metabolites in sheep. Twenty-four female mutton sheep with an initial body weight of 50 ± 2.5 kg were randomly assigned to one of three groups: (1) control diet (C); (2) aflatoxin diet (T; control diet supplemented with 75 μg of AFB1/kg of dry matter); and (3) ammoniated diet (AT; ammoniated aflatoxin diet). The results showed decreases (p < 0.05) in average daily feed intake, nutrient digestibility of dry matter, crude protein and ether extract, and retained nitrogen, and an increase (p < 0.05) in urine nitrogen excretion in sheep fed diet T compared with those fed the other diets. In comparison to C and AT, feeding T decreased (p < 0.05) the concentrations of total protein, immunoglobulin A, immunoglobulin G, immunoglobulin M, superoxide dismutase, and total antioxidants and increased (p < 0.05) the concentrations of alanine amino transferase, malondialdehyde, and interleukin-6. In summary, ammonia treatment has the potential to decrease the concentration of AFB1 and alleviate the adverse effects of AFB1.

Two-dimensional nanomaterials-added dynamism in 3D printing and bioprinting of biomedical platforms: Unique opportunities and challenges

The nanomaterials research spectrum has seen the continuous emergence of two-dimensional (2D) materials over the years. These highly anisotropic and ultrathin materials have found special attention in developing biomedical platforms for therapeutic applications, biosensing, drug delivery, and regenerative medicine. Three-dimensional (3D) printing and bioprinting technologies have emerged as promising tools in medical applications. The convergence of 2D nanomaterials with 3D printing has extended the application dynamics of available biomaterials to 3D printable inks and bioinks. Furthermore, the unique properties of 2D nanomaterials have imparted multifunctionalities to 3D printed constructs applicable to several biomedical applications. 2D nanomaterials such as graphene and its derivatives have long been the interest of researchers working in this area. Beyond graphene, a range of emerging 2D nanomaterials, such as layered silicates, black phosphorus, transition metal dichalcogenides, transition metal oxides, hexagonal boron nitride, and MXenes, are being explored for the multitude of biomedical applications. Better understandings on both the local and systemic toxicity of these materials have also emerged over the years. This review focuses on state-of-art 3D fabrication and biofabrication of biomedical platforms facilitated by 2D nanomaterials, with the comprehensive summary of studies focusing on the toxicity of these materials. We highlight the dynamism added by 2D nanomaterials in the printing process and the functionality of printed constructs.

Effect of Dietary L-Threonine and Toxin Binder on Performance, Blood Parameters, and Immune Response of Broilers Exposed to Aflatoxin B1

To evaluate the effect of L-Threonine (L-Thr) and Mycofix® Plus (MP) on aflatoxicosis, an experiment with a 3-way ANOVA model was carried out with 8 replicates and 640 birds. Treatments included two levels of L-Thr (100% and 125% of the requirements, Cobb 500, Cobb-Vantress), Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) (0, 500 ppb), and MP (0, 1 g/kg). As the main effects showed, AFB1 decreased breast meat yield and carcass percentage (p < 0.001), serum urea, antibody titer against infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), and bone density (p < 0.05), while it increased the plasma concentrations of glucose and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (p < 0.05). Mycofix Plus improved the grower feed intake (FI), tibia fresh weight, and body weight (BW) to bone weight (p < 0.05). L-Threonine increased the grower FI, breast meat yield, serum aspartate transaminase (AST), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) (p < 0.05). There were positive interactions with breast meat yield, cholesterol, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and IBV titer. Of the treatments used, the combination of L-Thr and MP without AFB1 improved breast meat and carcass percentage. L-Threonine and MP significantly improved IBV titer in birds challenged with AFB1 (p < 0.001). In conclusion, L-Thr and MP were beneficial to improve immunity.

Nutritional evaluation of fish protein hydrolysate and its application in piglet production

This study was conducted to determine the digestible energy (DE), metabolizable energy (ME), and ileal digestibility of amino acids (AA) of fish protein hydrolysate (FPH), and to evaluate the effects of FPH on the performance of piglets. In Exp. 1, the available energy content of FPH was determined by difference methods: 12 barrows with an initial body weight (BW) of 40.0 ± 2.1 kg were randomly assigned into two dietary treatments with six replicates per treatment, the treatments contained a corn basal diet and an experimental diet in which 20% corn was replaced by FPH. The experiment lasted for 12 d, with 7 d adaptation period followed by 5 d total collection of feces and urine. In Exp. 2, the standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of AA in FPH by the N-free method was determined, 12 barrows (initial BW of 35.3 ± 1.8 kg) with ileal T-cannulas were randomly allotted into two treatments with six replicates per treatment, and the dietary treatments consisted of an experimental diet and a N-free diet. The experiment was lasted for 7 d, with 5 d adaptation period followed by 2 d collection of ileal digesta. In Exp. 3, the effect of FPH on the performance of piglets was conducted. One hundred ninety-two piglets (initial BW of 8.10 ± 1.8 kg) were randomly allotted into four treatments with six replicates per treatment. The treatments were a control diet with fish meal (FM) and part or all FM was replaced by FPH, receiving diets containing 2%, 3%, or 5% FPH. The experiment lasted for 28 d. Results showed that in Exp. 1, the DE and ME of FPH were 21.12 and 20.28 MJ/kg. In Exp. 2, the SID of Lys, Met, Thr, and Trp was 79.99%, 87.17%, 68.29%, and 71.53%, respectively. In Exp. 3, addition of 3% FPH increased nutrient digestibility and volatile fatty acid content in feces. Addition of 5% FPH increased the average daily feed intake (ADFI), significantly increased (P < 0.05) the activities of total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and immunoglobulin A (IgA), while significantly decreased (P<0.05) the average daily gain (ADG). In conclusion, FPH had a high value of digestible energy and ileal digestible essential amino acids, and could improve nutrient digestibility, immunity, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal health of piglets, while adverse to nitrogen deposition in piglets.

The Efficacy of a Smectite-Based Mycotoxin Binder in Reducing Aflatoxin B1 Toxicity on Performance, Health and Histopathology of Broiler Chickens

The aim of the experiment was to investigate the efficacy of a smectite-based clay binder (Toxo-MX) in reducing the toxicological effects of aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) in commercial broiler chickens. A total of 450 one-day old male broiler chickens were randomly allocated into three treatment groups with ten replicates of 15 birds each in a 42-day feeding experiment. The dietary treatments included a negative control (NC, a basal diet with no AFB₁ and binder), a positive control (PC, a basal diet contaminated with 500 ppb of AFB₁) and a smectite-based mycotoxin binder(Toxo-MX, PC with smectite clay binder). AFB₁ challenge resulted in 14 to 24% depression in growth performance, elevated levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), organ enlargement and immuno-suppression.As compared to PC, feeding of Toxo-MX improved the final weight (15%; p < 0.0001), average daily gain (ADG) (15%; p < 0.001) and feed efficiency of broilers (13%; p < 0.0003) but did not have any effects on liver enzyme activities. Supplementation of smectite claysignificantly increased serum globulin levels and reduced the weight of the liver (p < 0.05) as compared to AFB₁-fed broiler chickens. The severity of lesions (inflammatory and degenerative changes) observed in the liver, kidney, heart, pancreas, and lymphoid organs in PC birds was reduced by feeding smectite clay. The immuno-suppression caused by AFB₁ was moderately ameliorated in Toxo-MX groupby stimulating the production of antibodies against IBD at day 42 (p < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary supplementation of a smectite-based mycotoxin binder to the diet containing AFB₁ improved growth performance, reduced toxicological effects in liver and improved humoral immune response in broilers, suggesting its protective effect against aflatoxicosis.

Evaluation of berberine efficacy in reducing the effects of aflatoxin B1 and ochratoxin A added to male broiler rations

Many types of mycotoxins are found in food sources contaminated with fungi, and if these are ingested in large quantities or over a long period, they can affect the health of humans and domestic animals. Berberine (BBR) is a plant alkaloid with multiple pharmacological functions. This study aimed to investigate the effect of different levels of the plant alkaloid BBR on reducing toxic effects of aflatoxin B1 (AFB) and ochratoxin A (OTA) in broilers by examining performance characteristics, blood biochemistry, antioxidant systems, ileum morphology, and histopathology of the liver. The experiment was performed with 288 Ross 308 broilers reared in floor pens for 42 d in a randomized design with 9 treatments. Each treatment was replicated 4 times, and each replicate contained 8 chicks. Experimental treatments included (1) negative control diet with no additives (NC); (2) NC + 2 ppm AFB (positive control AFB; PCAFB); (3) NC + 2 ppm OTA (positive control OTA; PCOTA); (4) PCAFB + 200 mg/kg BBR; (5) PCAFB + 400 mg/kg BBR; (6) PCAFB + 600 mg/kg BBR; (7) PCOTA + 200 mg/kg BBR; (8) PCOTA + 400 mg/kg BBR; and (9) PCOTA + 600 mg/kg BBR. Compared with NC, feeding PCAFB and PCOTA diets reduced average daily feed intake, weight gain, serum concentrations of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and the length and width of ileum villi (P < 0.05). At the same time, these parameters increased in birds fed PCAFB or PCOTA diets supplemented with 600 mg/kg of BBR (P < 0.05). Feeding PCAFB and PCOTA diets increased feed conversion ratio (FCR), serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) activities, serum urea, and liver lesions compared with NC. By contrast, compared with PCAFB and PCOTA, adding 600 mg/kg BBR decreased FCR, AST, LDH, ALT, and GGT activities, urea, and liver lesions (P < 0.05). Overall, supplementation with 600 mg/kg BBR may improve growth performance, liver function, and antioxidant status of broilers fed diets contaminated with AFB and OTA.

Anti-mycotoxigenic properties of probiotic Bacillus spp. in Japanese quails

The current study was conducted to evaluate the anti-mycotoxigenic effects of previously isolated Bacillus spp. in Japanese quails. A total of 240-day-old Japanese quails were assigned in to six treatments and four replicates. Dietary treatments included the following: negative control (basal diet), positive control (basal diet + 2.5 ppm afltatoxin B₁), probiotic treatments (basal diet + 2.5 ppm afltatoxin B₁), and 10⁸ cfu/ml of different Bacillus spp. (B. megaterium, B. subtilis, or B. laterosporus) in drinking water and treatment P (basal diet + 2.5 ppm afltatoxin B₁ and 2.5 ppm Polysorb®). Body weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio were not affected by dietary treatments (P > 0.05). Carcass yield significantly increased in B. megaterium and B. subtilis treatments compared with positive control. Supplementation of B. megaterium significantly increased testes, uterus and oviduct weights, skin response to 2,4-dinitro 1-chlorobenzene and phytohemagglutinin, and antibody production against sheep red blood cells (P < 0.05). B. megaterium could significantly increase bursa weight and decrease liver weight compared with positive control (P < 0.05). B. megaterium, B. laterosporus, and Polysorb treatments significantly decreased H:L and aspartate aminotransferase activity in aflatoxin B₁ fed control (P < 0.05). B. megaterium and B. laterosporus significantly increased tibia weight, length, radius, index, and ash content compared with positive control (P < 0.05). All dietary additives significantly reduced meat oxidation, total aerobic bacteria, and spore forming bacteria of ileal content compared with positive control (P < 0.05). Ileal lactic acid bacteria significantly increased in B. megaterium treatment (P < 0.05). Totally, B. megaterium might be a promising probiotic with a comparable afltatoxin B₁ removal potential to commercial toxin binder (Polysorb).

Protective role of lactic acid bacteria and yeasts as dietary carcinogen-binding agents - a review

The importance of food contaminants in the link between diet and cancer has been widely demonstrated. Therefore, different physical and chemical strategies for the control of human exposure to such dietary carcinogens has been explored; however, most of these strategies are complex, costly, and have low efficiency which limited their applications. Hence, microbiological methods have been receiving more attention. Recent in vitro and in vivo studies have indicated that lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and yeast may act as dietary carcinogen-binding agents. This review describes the promising protective role of strains belonging mainly to the Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Saccharomyces genera by acting as dietary carcinogen-binding agents. This property suggests that these microorganisms may have a protective role by reducing the bioaccessibility of dietary carcinogens, thereby decreasing their toxic effects. The mechanisms by which the binding process takes place have not been completely elucidated; thus, the possible underlying mechanisms and factors influencing carcinogens-binding will be addressed.

Effects of three Bacillus specious on hatchability, growth performance and serum biochemistry in Japanese quails fed diet contaminated with Aflatoxin B1

 In total, 240 one-day–old Japanese quails (Coturnix Coturnix Japonica) allocated at random to 6 treatments with 4 replicates and 10 birds in each. Treatments used were: 1) Negative control (without any additives or AFB1); 2) Positive control (basal diet + 2.5 ppm AFB1; 2); 3) TA008 (positive control + 108 cfu/ml Bacillus. megaterium TA008); 4) TA049 (positive control + 108 cfu mL-1 Bacillus. subtilis TA049); 5) TA010 (positive control+ 108 cfu mL-1 Brevibacillus brevis TA010) and 6) P (positive control + 2.5 g kg-1 Polysorb® in feed). Hatchability and embryonic mortality were significantly influenced by additives and AFB1 (p < 0.05). Birds fed TA008 improved 12 % hatchability and reduced 10 % embryonic mortality in compared to positive control (p < 0.05). Weight gain and feed conversion ratio did not affected by treatments (p > 0.05). Feed intake was significantly improved in birds feeding by TA008 at 0-21 days (p < 0.05). There were significant differences on relative weights of carcass, gizzard and proventriculus among treatments (p < 0.05). Serum total protein, albumin, cholesterol, glucose, HDL, globulin and uric acid were significantly affected by treatments (p < 0.05). These results showed that the inclusion of bacillus megaterium as potential probiotic into contaminated diets could improve the adverse effects of AFB1 in Japanese quails.

Efficacy of some feed additives to attenuate the hepato-renal damage induced by aflatoxin B1 in rabbits

The present trial was conducted to evaluate the beneficial role of some feed additives (potassium sorbate; Sor, hydrated sodium calcium almuniosilicate; Hsc and l-methionine; L-M) in attenuating the hepatic and renal toxicity of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in rabbits. A total number of 72 NZW growing rabbits (5 week-old) were divided into six experimental groups (four replicates with three rabbits each) as follows: control group, AFB1 group (supplemented with AFB1 0.3 mg/kg diet), AFB1 + Sor group (AFB1 0.3 mg/kg diet + Sor 2 g/kg diet), AFB1 + Hsc group (AFB1 0.3 mg/kg diet + Hsc 5 g/kg diet), AFB1 + L-M group (AFB1 0.3 mg/kg diet + L-M 8 g/kg diet) and AFB1 + Mix group (AFB1 0.3 mg/kg diet + 2 Sor + 5 Hsc + 8 L-M g/kg diet). Serum levels of total protein, albumin and globulin were significantly reduced by AF. AF increased the serum activity of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine amino transferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) enzymes. While, they were reduced in AF + Sor and AF + Mix groups compared with AF group. AF increased the level of cystatin C and Beta-2 microglobulin (BMG). All other supplements significantly reduced the level of cystatin C than AF; however, this reduction was more pronounced in AF-L-M group. AF + Sor, AF + L-M and AF + Mix equally reduced the BMG level than AF and AF + HSc, however, still higher than control. AF elevated the total cholesterol (TC) and LDL-cholesterol levels. A significant reduction in HDL cholesterol was seen in AF group. Additionally, AF induced pathological alterations in the liver and kidney of exposed rabbits on the other hands, the three additives separately or in mix attenuated the Af-induced alterations. In conclusion, the dietary supplementation of Sor, L-M, Hsc or their mixture was effective in ameliorating the negative effects of AFB1 on liver and kidney function and structure in rabbits with more better improvement obtained by Sor or L-M separately.

Effects of bentonite nanoparticles inhalation on lung tissue and blood antioxidant indices in a rat model

Bentonite is an inorganic clay material that is often easily dispersed as fine particles by air and water circulation, and most people are exposed to different concentrations of bentonite particles. Therefore, the inhaled effects of bentonite nanoparticles (BNPs) were studied in Wistar rats. Seventy-five rats were divided into five groups of 15: four exposure groups (0.1, 0.5, 2, and 10 mg/m³ of BNPs) and one control group. The rats were exposed for 30, 60, and 90 days to BNPs for 5 days a week (6 h/day) in whole-body inhalation chambers. Blood samples were collected to measure the levels of antioxidant activity of the contents such as total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and malondialdehyde (MDA). X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy were used to identify nanoparticles. The results showed no significant difference in the effect of nanoparticles on levels of TAC and MDA in the studied groups based on the concentrations of nanoparticles. However, the level of MDA increased significantly with extending exposure time; there was a significant increase in the level of MDA content 90 days postexposure compared to 30 days postexposure at concentrations of 0.5, 2, and 10 mg/m³. Histopathological examination showed that inhalation exposure of rats to BNPs led to different histopathologic responses in the lung tissue, such as inflammatory infiltration, granulomatous inflammation, acute neutrophilic reaction in the early stages, and lung fibrosis. At the lowest concentration, BNPs have low or no toxicity, and inhalation of these nanoparticles at low concentrations does not affect the levels of MDA and TAC content. However, increased concentration and exposure time caused correspondingly greater increases in MDA and more damage to lung tissue.

Assessment of H-β zeolite as an ochratoxin binder for poultry

Most of the cereal-based ingredients used in poultry feed are contaminated with ochratoxin-A (OTA). We have investigated H-β zeolite (HBZ) as a new OTA binder for poultry, along with widely used clay mineral-based product (CM), using in vitro and in vivo methods. In vitro binding experiment was carried out using a biphasic assay, consisting of adsorption at pH 3.2 and desorption at pH 6.8. High adsorption (>98%) with less desorption (<5%) was observed for HBZ, whereas CM showed high binding (>98%) and moderate desorption (48%). In the in vitro experiments with the different simulated gastro-intestinal pH buffers, HBZ did not desorb OTA at any of the pH. Desorption of OTA was observed with CM, as the pH increases. From the in vitro kinetic and chemisorption studies, faster, stronger, and higher adsorption was observed for HBZ. Thermodynamic studies showed positive entropy (22.76 KJ/mol K) for HBZ, signifying predominant hydrophobic interactions towards OTA, whereas CM exhibited negative entropy (-3.67 KJ/mol K). The in vivo binding efficacy of HBZ and CM was tested in 5-wk-old broiler chickens. The study consisted of 4 experimental groups, each with 6 replicates having 2 birds per replicate. The groups were control, negative control (no toxin binder), T1 (HBZ at 1 kg/ton of feed), and T2(CM at 1 kg/ton of feed). Except control, all the replicates received 20 µg of OTA in the feed. Excreta samples of T1, T2, and NC contained 11.57, 7.16, and 2.78 µg of OTA respectively, which was significantly different from each other (P < 0.05). A growth performance trial was conducted in broiler chickens for 35 D. A total of 288 one-day-old birds were randomly segregated to 3 treatment groups, each with 8 replicates of 12 birds each. Treatment groups consisted of control, T1, and T2, treated with no toxin binder, HBZ, and CM at 1 kg/ton of feed, respectively. None of the treatment groups including control, affected BW gain, and feed conversion ratio (P > 0.05).

Dietary supplementation of potassium sorbate, hydrated sodium calcium almuniosilicate and methionine enhances growth, antioxidant status and immunity in growing rabbits exposed to aflatoxin B1 in the diet

The present experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary supplementation with some feed additives (potassium sorbate; Sor, hydrated sodium calcium almuniosilicate; Hsc and L-methionine; L-M) against aflatoxin B1 (AF) toxicity in rabbits. A total of 72 growing rabbits (5-week-old) were distributed into six equal groups (4 replicates with 3 rabbits each). The experimental groups are as follows: control group, AF group (supplemented with AF 0.3 mg/kg diet), AF + Sor group (AF 0.3 mg/kg diet + Sor 2 g/kg diet), AF + Hsc group (AF 0.3 mg/kg diet + Hsc 5 g/kg diet), AF + L-M group (AF 0.3 mg/kg diet + L-M 8 g/kg diet) and AF + Mix group (AF 0.3 mg/kg diet + 2 Sor + 5 Hsc + 8 L-M g/kg diet). Live body weight and weight gain at 13 weeks of age were significantly reduced by AF. Feed intake at 13 weeks of age was decreased in AF, AF + Hsc and AF + Mix compared to the control. AF, AF + Hsc and AF + Mix showed the lowest total antioxidant capacity compared to the control. The highest level of reactive oxygen species and 8-Hydroxy-2-desoxyguanosine was observed in AF group. Using of other supplements with AF increased immunoglobulinM than AF alone. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of Sor, L-M, Hsc or their mixture was effective in reducing the adverse effects of AF on performance, antioxidant and immune status of rabbits with more better improvement obtained by Sor or L-M separately.

Nutrient stability in mould-infested feed and mitigating effect of dietary supplemental vitamins in brown laying hens

A 10-week study was conducted to assess the impact of mould infestation on nutrient stability of feed and the mitigating effect of supplemental tocopherol, retinol or a multivitamin on performance and hepatic histology of ISA Brown laying chickens. Two batches of corn were obtained: the aflasafe corn used in preparing control diet and corn with physical evidence of mould used in preparing diets 2 to 5 containing no supplemental vitamin, tocopherol, retinol or a branded multivitamin supplementations respectively. One hundred and fifty (150) laying chickens used were completely randomized into five dietary treatments with three replicates of 10 birds each. Results showed that there was gross instability in the nutrients of mouldy maize. The activities of the fungi depleted both protein and lipid contents by 11.54% and 12.72% respectively while crude fibre content rose by 31.7%. There was substantial drop in both retinol and tocopherol while aflatoxin content rose to 267 μg in mouldy corn and 118 μg in the mouldy diets. Feed intake was significantly (P < 0.05) reduced and consequently depressed (P < 0.05) egg production and feed efficiency. Egg quality differs (P < 0.05) in shell thickness and yolk colour. Proliferation of biliary duct epithelium, hepatic degeneration, cellular infiltration, hyper-cellularity or dilation of the sinusoidal spaces characterized livers of birds on mouldy corn diets while supplementation with vitamins subverted mycosis and aflatoxicosis as evidenced by normal-to-mild congestion of hepatocytes. It was concluded that mould contamination in feed compromised feed nutritive values, reduced bird performance and adversely impaired the liver of the experimental birds while tocopherol, retinol or a multivitamin supplementation relapses the damaging potential of mould and mycotoxin differently.

Biological System Responses of Dairy Cows to Aflatoxin B1 Exposure Revealed with Metabolomic Changes in Multiple Biofluids

Research on mycotoxins now requires a systematic study of post-exposure organisms. In this study, the effects of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) on biofluids biomarkers were examined with metabolomics and biochemical tests. The results showed that milk concentration of aflatoxin M1 changed with the addition or removal of AFB1. AFB1 significantly affected serum concentrations of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malon dialdehyde (MDA), SOD/MDA, and the total antioxidant capacity. Significant differences of volatile fatty acids and NH₃-N were detected in the rumen fluid. Eighteen rumen fluid metabolites, 11 plasma metabolites, and 9 milk metabolites were significantly affected by the AFB1. These metabolites are mainly involved in the pathway of amino acids metabolism. Our results suggest that not only is the study of macro-indicators (milk composition and production) important, but that more attention should be paid to micro-indicators (biomarkers) when assessing the risks posed by mycotoxins to dairy cows.

Nanoparticles as a Solution for Eliminating the Risk of Mycotoxins

Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by certain filamentous fungi. The occurrence of mycotoxins in food and feed causes negative health impacts on both humans and animals. Clay binders, yeast cell walls, or antioxidant additives are the most widely used products for mycotoxin elimination to reduce their impact. Although conventional methods are constantly improving, current research trends are looking for innovative solutions. Nanotechnology approaches seem to be a promising, effective, and low-cost way to minimize the health effects of mycotoxins. This review aims to shed light on the critical knowledge gap in mycotoxin elimination by nanotechnology. There are three main strategies: mold inhibition, mycotoxin adsorption, and reducing the toxic effect via nanoparticles. One of the most promising methods is the use of carbon-based nanomaterials. Graphene has been shown to have a huge surface and high binding capacity for mycotoxins. Attention has also been drawn to polymeric nanoparticles; they could substitute adsorbents or enclose any substance, which would improve the health status of the organism. In light of these findings, this review gives new insights into possible future research that might overcome challenges associated with nanotechnology utilization for mycotoxin elimination from agricultural products.

Effect of Montmorillonite on 4-Nonylphenol Enrichment in Zebrafish

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of montmorillonite on nonylphenol (4-nonylphenol, 4-NP) enrichment in a zebrafish model. The AB strain zebrafish were used as the animal subjects, and three concentration gradients were set for both nonylphenol and montmorillonite, according to their actual concentrations in aquaculture water in Huzhou City. A group treated with nonylphenol alone was also set, adding up to 12 experimental groups. Concentrations of nonylphenol enriched in the liver, muscle and gills of zebrafish were detected by solid phase microextraction–high performance liquid chromatography at Days 7, 15 and 30, respectively. Additionally, the relative enzymatic activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and the glutathione S-transferase (GST) were also detected, and the data were statistically analyzed. The results showed that the concentrations of nonylphenol in zebrafish peaked at Day 7 and gradually decreased afterwards for all the experimental groups. The montmorillonite reduces short-term accumulation of nonylphenol in gills, and the high concentration of nonylphenol facilitates its enrichment in liver and muscle, while the low concentration of nonylphenol does not. Meanwhile, the low concentration of nonylphenol in liver exerts an influence on the inductive effect of SOD and GST, while the high concentration of nonylphenol shows the inhibiting effect of SOD and GST.

Effects of lactic acid bacteria and smectite after aflatoxin B1 challenge on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility and blood parameters of broilers

This study aimed to investigate the effect of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and smectite on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility and blood parameters of broilers that were fed diets contaminated with aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁ ). A total of 480 newly hatched male Arbor Acres broilers were randomly allocated into four groups with six replicates of 20 chicks each. The broilers were fed diets with the AFB₁ (40 μg/kg) challenge or without (control) it and supplemented with smectite (3.0 g/kg) or LAB (4.0 × 10¹⁰  CFU/kg) based on the AFB₁ diet. The trial lasted for 42 days. The results showed that during days 1-42 of AFB₁ challenge, the feed intake (FI) and body weight gain (BWG) were depressed (p < .05). The inclusion of LAB and smectite increased (p < .05) the BWG by 71.58 and 41.89 g/bird, respectively, which reached the level of the control diet (p ≥ .05), but there were no differences (p ≥ .05) in performance between LAB and smectite. LAB and smectite also increased (p < .05) the apparent total tract digestibility of the crude protein. Regarding the blood parameters, AFB₁ decreased (p < .05) the levels of red blood cell count, haematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, haemoglobin, albumin and total protein. In the meantime, the AFB₁ increased (p < .05) leucocyte counts, urea nitrogen, cholesterol, total bilirubin, creatinine, glutamic-pyruvic transaminase, glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase and alkaline phosphatase. By contrast, LAB and smectite affected (p < .05) these parameters in the opposite direction. It can be concluded that after the AFB₁ challenge, LAB and smectite have similar effects on the growth and health of the broilers, suggesting that LAB could be an alternative against AFB₁ in commercial animal feeds.

Evaluation of Dietary Palygorskite Supplementation on Growth Performance, Mineral Accumulations, Antioxidant Capacities, and Meat Quality of Broilers Fed Lead-Contaminated Diet

The objective of this study was to evaluate influence of dietary palygorskite (Pal) supplementation on growth performance, mineral accumulations in the tissues (livers, kidneys, and muscles), antioxidant capacities, and meat quality of broilers fed lead (Pb)-contaminated diet. One-hundred forty-four male broiler chicks were randomly divided into three treatment groups, receiving a corn-soybean meal basal diet (the control group), the basal diet contaminated with 10 mg/kg Pb (the Pb group), and the basal diet with 10-g/kg Pal supplementation and 10-mg/kg Pb contamination (the Pal/Pb group) from 1 to 42 days of age, respectively. Treatments did not affect growth performance of broilers in the 42-day study (P > 0.05). Compared with the control group, Pb contamination increased Pb accumulation in the livers, kidneys, and muscles (P < 0.05); elevated malondialdehyde accumulation in the livers, kidneys, and breast muscles; glutathione peroxidase activity in the livers and superoxide dismutase activity in the kidneys (P < 0.05); exacerbated drip loss in the pectoralis muscles (P < 0.05); and reduced glutathione peroxidase activity in the pectoralis muscles (P < 0.05) of broilers at 42 days of age. The values of these parameters were reversed in the Pal/Pb group to levels comparable with those in the control group (P < 0.05). Additionally, Pal supplementation reduced redness value in the pectoralis muscles (P < 0.05), and decreased Cu concentration in the pectoralis muscles and livers at 42 days of age as well as its accumulation in the kidneys at both 21 and 42 days of age compared with the other two groups (P < 0.05). The results suggested that dietary Pal supplementation would decrease Pb residue in the tissues, alleviate oxidative stress, and affect meat quality of broilers exposed to Pb.

Excess of dietary montmorillonite impairs growth performance, liver function, and antioxidant capacity in starter pigs

Montmorillonite (MMT) is widely used as a mycotoxin adsorbent in animal feeds, but its safety remains unclear. This study was conducted to investigate the safety of MMT supplementation in diets fed to starter pigs. A total of 120 32-d-old piglets (initial weight, 8.0 ± 0.9 kg) were randomly allotted into dietary treatments with graded MMT levels (0 [FS 0], 0.5% [FS 0.5], 1.0% [FS 1.0], 2.5% [FS 2.5], and 5.0% [FS 5.0]) with 6 replicate pens per treatment and 4 pigs per pen. All diets were fed for 28 d. As the MMT level increased, ADG and G:F changed in a linear and quadratic manner, while ADFI was linearly decreased ( > 0.05). Compared with FS 0, ADG, ADFI, and G:F of pigs in FS 1.0 increased ( < 0.05). However, the ADFI in pigs of FS 5.0 was lower than that in pigs of FS 0 ( < 0.05). The relative liver weight activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) changed in a linear and quadratic manner ( < 0.05). Compared with FS 0, pigs in FS 2.5 and FS 5.0 had a greater serum ALT ( < 0.05), while AST activity significantly increased in pigs of FS 5.0 ( < 0.05). Dietary MMT supplementation decreased serum Mg content in a linear and quadratic manner ( < 0.05), while Zn and Cu contents were linearly decreased ( < 0.05). Serum Zn and Cu contents of pigs in FS 0.5, FS 2.5, and FS 5.0 groups were lower than those in the control. Pigs fed with 2.5% and 5% MMT showed hepatic histopathological changes, including swelling, granular and vesicular degeneration, and apparent vacuolar degeneration. In addition, the content of serum total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) decreased in a linear and quadratic manner ( < 0.05). Compared to the control, 5.0% MMT significantly increased piglets' serum malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration and decreased GSH-PX activity ( < 0.05). T-AOC concentration in the pigs fed 2.5% and 5.0% MMT was lower than that in the control group ( < 0.05). Serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity changed in a quadratic manner ( < 0.05). Piglets in FS 1.0 showed a higher SOD activity when compared with the control ( < 0.05). These results indicate that supplementation of MMT higher than 1.0% can negatively affect liver structure and serum mineral content, and 5.0% MMT supplementation would also decrease feed intake, aggravate liver damage, and reduce the antioxidant capacity of starter pigs. Therefore, excess supplementation of MMT is not safe in starter pigs.

Ameliorative Effects of Grape Seed Proanthocyanidin Extract on Growth Performance, Immune Function, Antioxidant Capacity, Biochemical Constituents, Liver Histopathology and Aflatoxin Residues in Broilers Exposed to Aflatoxin B₁

Aflatoxicosis is a grave threat to the poultry industry. Dietary supplementation with antioxidants showed a great potential in enhancing the immune system; hence, protecting animals against aflatoxin B₁-induced toxicity. Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) one of the most well-known and powerful antioxidants. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to investigate the effectiveness of GSPE in the detoxification of AFB₁ in broilers. A total of 300 one-day-old Cobb chicks were randomly allocated into five treatments of six replicates (10 birds per replicate), fed ad libitum for four weeks with the following dietary treatments: 1. Basal diet (control); 2. Basal diet + 1 mg/kg AFB₁ contaminated corn (AFB₁); 3. Basal diet + GSPE 250 mg/kg; (GSPE 250 mg/kg) 4. Basal diet + AFB₁ (1 mg/kg) + GSPE 250 mg/kg; (AFB₁ + GSPE 250 mg/kg) 5. Basal diet + AFB₁ (1mg/kg) + GSPE 500 mg/kg, (AFB₁ + GSPE 500 mg/kg). When compared with the control group, feeding broilers with AFB₁ alone significantly reduced growth performance, serum immunoglobulin contents, negatively altered serum biochemical contents, and enzyme activities, and induced histopathological lesion in the liver. In addition, AFB₁ significantly increased malondialdehyde content and decreased total superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxide, glutathione-S transferase, glutathione reductase activities, and glutathione concentration within the liver and serum. The supplementation of GSPE (250 and 500 mg/kg) to AFB₁ contaminated diet reduced AFB₁ residue in the liver and significantly mitigated AFB₁ negative effects. From these results, it can be concluded that dietary supplementation of GSPE has protective effects against aflatoxicosis caused by AFB₁ in broiler chickens.

Aflatoxin, proximate composition and mineral profile of stored broiler feed treated with medicinal plant leaves

OBJECTIVES

In the present investigation, the Morus alba (M. alba), Vitis vinifera (V. vinifera), Ficus religiosa (F. religiosa) and Citrus paradisi (C. paradisi) leaves anti-aflatoxigenic activities were evaluated in Aspergillus flavus (A. flavus) inoculated feed.

METHODS

The broiler feed inoculated with A. flavus was treated with selected medicinal plant leaf powder (5%, 10% and 15% w/w) and stored for the period of six months at 28°C and 16% moisture. The aflatoxins (AFTs) were estimated at the end of each month by Reversed Phase High Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC) method along with proximate composition and mineral contents.

RESULTS

Plant leaves controlled AFTs efficiently without affecting the feed proximate composition and mineral contents. The M. alba leaves completely inhibition (100%) the AFTs (B₁ and B₂) in feed at very low concentration (5%). Other plants also showed significant (P<0.05) inhibition of AFTs production without affecting the feed quality over the storage period of six months.

CONCLUSION

Based on promising efficiency of selected medicinal plant leaves, A. flavus produced AFTs could possibly be controlled in stored poultry feed.

Biological approach to aflatoxin control in stored poultry feed

The anti-aflatoxigenic potentials of the leaves ofPsidium guajava,Ficus benghalensis,Gardenia radicans,Punica granatumandZiziphus jujubaMill. were investigated. Poultry feed inoculated withAspergillus flavuswas treated with plant leaves powder and stored for the period of six months at 28 °C and 16% moisture level. At the end of each month, aflatoxin (AFT) concentrations were determined by high performance liquid chromatography. The proximate and mineral analysis was performed at the end of the storage period. Plant leaves control the AFTs (AFB1 and AFB2) efficiently without compromising the feed quality.Punica granatumleaves (5%) completely inhibited the AFTs in the stored feed over the period of six months.Ziziphus jujubeMill.,P. guajava,F. benghalensis, andG. radicansalso showed promising anti-aflatoxigenic activities. Results revealed that the AFT production byA. flavusin a stored poultry feed can be inhibited using the plant leaves under investigation.

Protective Effects of Sporoderm-Broken Spores of Ganderma lucidum on Growth Performance, Antioxidant Capacity and Immune Function of Broiler Chickens Exposed to Low Level of Aflatoxin B₁

This study was conducted to investigate the toxic effects of aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) and evaluate the effects of sporoderm-broken spores of Ganoderma lucidum (SSGL) in relieving aflatoxicosis in broilers. A total of 300 one-day-old male Arbor Acre broiler chickens were randomly divided into four dietary treatments; the treatment diets were: Control (a basal diet containing normal peanut meal); AFB₁ (the basal diet containing AFB₁-contaminated peanut meal); SSGL (basal diet with 200 mg/kg of SSGL); AFB₁+SSGL (supplementation of 200 mg/kg of SSGL in AFB₁ diet). The contents of AFB₁ in AFB₁ and AFB₁+SSGL diets were 25.0 μg/kg in the starter period and 22.5 μg/kg in the finisher period. The results showed that diet contaminated with a low level of AFB₁ significantly decreased (p < 0.05) the average daily feed intake and average daily gain during the entire experiment and reduced (p < 0.05) serum contents of total protein IgA and IgG. Furthermore, a dietary low level of AFB₁ not only increased (p < 0.05) levels of hydrogen peroxide and lipid peroxidation, but also decreased (p < 0.05) total antioxidant capability, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and hydroxyl radical scavenger activity in the liver and spleen of broilers. Moreover, the addition of SSGL to AFB₁-contaminated diet counteracted these negative effects, indicating that SSGL has a protective effect against aflatoxicosis.

The role of bentonite binders in single or concomitant mycotoxin contamination of chicken diets

Concomitant presence of mycotoxins is more likely to appear than a single mycotoxicosis since many mycotoxigenic fungi grow and produce their toxic metabolites under similar conditions. The present study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of 4 mycotoxin binders to protect meat-type chickens against single and concomitant administration in the feed of two mycotoxins, namely aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and ochratoxin A (OTA) both at concentration of 0.1 mg/kg. A total of 440 as hatched, d-old, Ross 308 broilers were reared for 42 d. There were 11 dietary treatments. Chickens were fed on either an uncontaminated basal diet, basal diet and AFB1, basal with concomitant presence of AFB1 and OTA, basal diet and three binders A, B and C (1%) with or without AFB1 or basal diet and binder D (0.5%) with or without concomitant presence of AFB1 and OTA. Performance, carcass yield and several biochemical parameters were examined. Mycotoxin concentration in liver and breast muscle samples was determined. Broiler performance under concomitant mycotoxin contamination was poorer than that under single mycotoxicosis. Mycotoxin presence increased relative heart weight compared to that of broilers fed on uncontaminated diets. Only OTA and not AFB1 was detected and only in the liver. OTA concentration was four-fold lower in broilers fed on a diet with binder compared to those fed on contaminated diets without binder. In conclusion, the study revealed that binder composition and presence or not of multiple toxins may be important factors for optimum broiler performance under mycotoxicosis.

A review of the efficacy of mycotoxin detoxifying agents used in feed in light of changing global environment and legislation

In the recent years, mycotoxins have undoubtedly gained a keen interest of the scientific community studying food safety. The main reason is their profound impact on both human and animal health. International surveys reveal a low percentage of feed samples being contaminated above permitted/guideline levels, developed to protect consumers of animal derived products. However, the deleterious impact of feed co-contaminated at low levels with numerous both known and regulated as well as novel mycotoxins on producing animals has been described. Associated effects on agro-economics world-wide include substantial pecuniary losses which are borne by the society as a whole. Even though good agronomic practice is thought to be the most effective way of preventing animal feed contamination, the EC have recognised the need to introduce an additional means of management of feed already contaminated with low-levels of mycotoxins to alleviate detrimental effects on agricultural production efficiency. This review discusses types of feed detoxifying agents described in scientific literature, their reported efficacy in both in vitro and in vivo systems, and comparison with available commercial formulations in the light of increasing knowledge regarding mycotoxin prevalence in the changing global environment.

Transfer of dietary aflatoxin B1 to milk aflatoxin M1 and effect of inclusion of adsorbent in the diet of dairy cows

The objectives of this study were to investigate the transfer of aflatoxin from feed to milk and to evaluate the effects of Solis Mos (SM; Novus International Inc., St. Charles, MO) on milk aflatoxin M1, plasma biochemical parameters, and ruminal fermentation of dairy cows fed varying doses of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1). Three groups of 8 multiparous Holstein cows in late lactation (days in milk = 271 ± 29; milk yield = 21.6 ± 3.1 kg/d) were assigned to 1 of 3 experiments in a crossover design. Cows in experiment 1 received no aflatoxin, cows in experiment 2 received 20 µg of AFB1/kg of dry matter, and cows in experiment 3 received 40 µg of AFB1/kg of dry matter. Cows in each experiment were assigned to 1 of 2 treatments: control or 0.25% SM. Each experiment consisted of 2 consecutive periods with the first 4 d (d 1 to 4) as adaptation, followed by AFB1 challenge for 7 d (d 5 to 11), and finally clearance for 5 d (d 12 to 16) in each period. Samples of total mixed ration and milk were collected on d 1, 2, and 10 to 14 of each period. Blood samples were collected from the coccygeal vein on d 1, 11, and 14 of each period. Rumen fluid was collected by oral stomach tube 2 h after the morning feeding on d 1 and 11 of each period. Adding SM to basal or AFB1-contaminated diets at 0.25% had no effect on lactation performance, liver function, or immune response. However, addition of SM improved antioxidative status, as indicated by increased plasma concentrations of superoxide dismutase and reduced malondialdehyde regardless of dietary AFB1 level. Addition of SM to the AFB1-free diet eliminated the background AFM1 in milk and increased total ruminal volatile fatty acid (99.6 vs. 94.2 mM) concentrations. Adding SM to the AFB1-contaminated diet in experiment 2 decreased the AFM1 concentration (88.4 vs. 105.3 ng/L) and the transfer of aflatoxin to milk (0.46 vs. 0.56%), and increased total volatile fatty acid concentration (99.8 vs. 93.4 mM). Adding SM to diets with 40 µg/kg of AFB1 did not elicit changes in rumen parameters or AFM1 output. These results indicated that adding SM to diets containing 0 or 20 µg of AFB1/kg decreased milk AFM1 concentration, improved antioxidative status, and altered rumen fermentation, whereas adding SM to a diet containing 40 µg of AFB1/kg did not reduce AFB1 transfer but did increase the antioxidant status of the liver.

In vivo detoxification of aflatoxinB1 by magnetic carbon nanostructures prepared from bagasse

BACKGROUND

Aflatoxins are serious hazard to poultry industry and human health. Broiler chickens fed on aflatoxin contaminated feed develop various abnormal signs and behavior including less attraction toward feed, abnormal faeces consistency, growth retardation, dirty and ruffled feather, abnormal organs size and weight and blood serum biochemistry. Therefore the study was aimed to detoxify aflatoxin B1 in poultry feed. In this study a novel adsorbent was prepared from bagasse, characterized in vitro and in vivo it was fed to different groups of poultry birds along with aflatoxin B1. The groups were given arbitrary names A, B, C, D, E and F. Group A was fed with normal decontaminated feed, group B was fed with aflatoxin contaminated (200 μg/kg feed) feed while the groups C, D, E and F were fed with aflatoxin contaminated (200 μg/kg feed) feed plus 0.2, 0.3, 0.4 and 0.5% adsorbent respectively. Clinical signs and behavior of the chicks; blood level of alanine transferase, alkaline phosphatase, serum albumen, serum total proteins and serum globulin; Mortality; Body and organ weights; Hemorrhages in organs etc. were monitored in order to study the efficacy of the adsorbent for binding of aflatoxin B1 in the gastrointestinal tract of chickens. Statistical approach was adopted to analyze the data.

RESULTS

It was found that adsorbent amount 0.3%/kg feed was highly effective to adsorb and detoxify aflatoxin B1 in gastrointestinal tract of broiler chickens and pass safely leaving no harmful effects. However the results of groups E and F fed on 0.4% and 0.5% respectively showed slight variation in tested parameters from group A.

CONCLUSIONS

The prepared adsorbent was efficient for the detoxification of aflatoxin B1 in gastrointestinal tract of chicks and no negative symptoms associated with the use of activated carbon as previously reported were observed for the adsorbent under study.

Protective Efficacy of Alpha-lipoic Acid against AflatoxinB1-induced Oxidative Damage in the Liver

Alpha-lipoic acid (α-LA) is not only involved in energy metabolism, but is also a powerful antioxidant that can protect against hepatic oxidative stress induced by some drugs, toxins, or under various physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Here, we investigated the effect of α-LA against liver oxidative damage in broilers exposed to aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁). Birds were randomly divided into four groups and assigned different diets: basal diet, 300 mg/kg α-LA supplementation in basal diet, diet containing 74 μg/kg AFB₁, and 300 mg/kg α-LA supplementation in diet containing 74 μg/kg AFB₁, for 3 weeks. The results revealed that the addition of 300 mg/kg α-LA protected against the liver function damage of broilers induced by chronic low dose of AFB₁ as estimated by a significant (p<0.05) change in levels of plasma total protein, albumin, alkaline phosphatase and the activities of liver glutamic-oxalacetic transaminase and glutamic-pyruvic transaminase. The histopathological analysis also showed that liver tissues were injured in the AFB₁ diet, but this effect was alleviated by the addition of 300 mg/kg α-LA. Additionally, AFB₁ induced a profound elevation of oxidative stress in birds, as indicated by an increase in malondialdehyde level, a decrease in glutathione peroxidase activity and a depletion of the glutathione content in the liver. All of these negative effects were inhibited by treatment with α-LA. Our results suggest that the inhibition of AFB₁-induced excess production of lipid peroxides and the maintenance of intracellular antioxidant status may play important roles in the protective effects of α-LA against AFB₁-induced oxidative damage in the liver.