Acute aflatoxin B1 - Induced hepatotoxicity alters gene expression and disrupts lipid and lipoprotein metabolism in rats

Aqueous Vernonia amygdalina leaf extract in drinking water mitigates aflatoxin B1 toxicity in broilers: effects on performance, biomarker analysis, and liver histology

This study evaluated aqueous Vernonia amygdalina leaf extract in drinking water as a mitigation strategy against Aflatoxin B1-induced toxicity in broilers, focusing on performance, haematology, serum biochemistry, pro-inflammatory cytokines, cellular stress markers, and liver histology. Two hundred and forty (240) day-old chicks (mixed sex), of the Cobb 500 breed were divided into four groups: control (CONT), AFB1-exposed (AFLB1), and two treatment groups (VE1AF and VE2AF) receiving 0.5 mg/kg AFB1 and Vernonia amygdalina aqueous extract at 1 g/L and 2 g/L, respectively. At 42 days, VE1AF and VE2AF chickens showed higher (P < 0.05) final weights and weight gains than CONT and AFLB1 groups. The red blood cells, packed cell volume, haemoglobin, and white blood cell counts were higher (P < 0.05) in CONT, VE1AF, and VE2AF groups compared to AFLB1. Mean cell volume, and mean cell haemaoglobin were higher (P < 0.05) in AFLB1 and VE2AF. Serum analysis revealed lower (P < 0.05) total protein, globulin, and albumin in AFLB1, which were restored by the extract. The tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, interleukin-1β, and interferon-γ, were elevated (P < 0.05) in AFLB1 but reduced in VE1AF and VE2AF. The heat shock protein 70, 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine and adiponectin levels were higher (P < 0.05) in AFLB1, but were normalized by the extract in VE1AF and VE2AF. Leptin and triiodothyronine levels were significantly (P < 0.05) better in VE1AF and VE2AF, compared to AFLB1. Liver histology showed reduced inflammation in VE1AF and VE2AF, with near-normal hepatic architecture. In conclusion, Vernonia amygdalina leaf extract effectively counteracts AFB1 toxicity, enhancing overall health and performance in broiler chickens.

An untargeted metabolomic analysis of acute AFB1 treatment in liver, breast, and lung cells

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a class 1 carcinogen and mycotoxin known to contribute to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), growth impairment, altered immune system modulation, and malnutrition. AFB1 is synthesized by Aspergillus flavus and is known to widely contaminate foodstuffs, particularly maize, wheat, and groundnuts. The mechanism in which AFB1 causes genetic mutations has been well studied, however its metabolomic effects remained largely unknown. A better understanding of how AFB1 disrupts metabolism would provide insight into how this mycotoxin leads to carcinogenesis, growth impairment, and/or immunomodulation, and may reveal potential targets for pharmacological or nutritional interventions to protect against these effects. The current study evaluated the metabolomic effects of various doses (2.5 μM, 5 μM, 10uM) of AFB1 treatment to HepG2 (liver), MDA-MB-231 (breast), and A549 (lung) cells. Treated and control cells' metabolomic profiles were evaluated via ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS). Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed significant alterations in metabolite concentrations from each dose of AFB1 treatment in each cell type. Pathway analysis was then used to understand broader biochemical functions affected by AFB1 treatment in each cell type. HepG2 cell pathway analyses revealed significant pathway perturbations in lipid metabolism, carnitine synthesis, catecholamine biosynthesis, purine metabolism, and spermidine and spermine biosynthesis. Analysis of A549 cells found a greater emphasis of perturbations on various amino acids along with lipid synthesis-related pathways, and catecholamine biosynthesis. Finally, analysis of treated MDA-MB-231 cells found spermidine and spermine biosynthesis, carnitine synthesis, plasma membrane-related pathways (phosphatidylcholine synthesis and alpha linolenic acid and linoleic acid metabolism), and various amino acid metabolism pathways to be most affected. These highlighted pathways should be targeted in future investigations to evaluate their potential in mitigating or preventing the development of negative health effects associated with AFB1 exposure.

Aflatoxin B1-induced hepatotoxicity through mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and inflammation as central pathological mechanisms: A review of experimental evidence

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a class of mycotoxin known to contaminate agricultural products, animal feed and animal food products, subsequently causing detrimental effects on human and animal health. AFB1 is the most common and potent aflatoxin found in food and contributes significantly to liver injury as well as the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. Although the liver is a primary target organ for AFB1 toxicity and biotransformation, underlying mechanisms implicated in liver injuries induced by these mycotoxins remain to be fully elucidated for therapeutic purposes. This review aims to dissect the complexities of the pathophysiological and molecular mechanisms implicated in hepatotoxicity induced by AFB1, including mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress and hepatic inflammation. Mechanistically, AFB1 disrupt mitochondrial bioenergetics and membrane potential, promotes mitochondrial cholesterol trafficking and induces mitophagy. Moreover, mitochondrial dysfunction may lead to hepatic oxidative stress as a consequence of uncontrolled production of reactive oxygen species and defects in the antioxidant defense system. Retrieved experimental evidence also showed that AFB1 may lead to hepatic inflammation through gut microbiota dysbiosis, the release of DAMPs and cytokines, and immune cell recruitment. Overall, these mechanisms could be utilized as potential targets to extrapolate treatment for liver injury caused by AFB1.

Effect of Bioactive Ingredients on Urinary Excretion of Aflatoxin B1 and Ochratoxin A in Rats, as Measured by Liquid Chromatography with Fluorescence Detection

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and ochratoxin A (OTA) are highly toxic mycotoxins present in food and feed, posing serious health risks to humans and animals. This study aimed to validate an efficient and cost-effective analytical method for quantifying AFB1 and OTA in rat urine using immunoaffinity column extraction and liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection (IAC-LC-FD). Additionally, the study evaluated the effect of incorporating fermented whey and pumpkin into the feed on the urinary excretion of these mycotoxins. The limits of detection and quantification were determined to be 0.1 µg/kg and 0.3 µg/kg, respectively, for both mycotoxins in feed, and 0.2 ng/mL and 0.6 ng/mL, respectively, in urine. The method demonstrated robust recovery rates ranging from 74% to 119% for both AFB1 and OTA in both matrices. In feed samples, the levels of AFB1 and OTA ranged from 4.3 to 5.2 µg/g and from 5.4 to 8.8 µg/g, respectively. This validated method was successfully applied to analyze 116 urine samples from rats collected during the fourth week of an in vivo trial. The results indicated that the addition of fermented whey and pumpkin to the feed influenced mycotoxin excretion in urine, with variations observed based on the sex of the rats, type of mycotoxin, and exposure dosage.

Antioxidative and Antimycotoxigenic Efficacies of Thunbergia laurifolia Lindl. for Addressing Aflatoxicosis in Cherry Valley Ducks

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and Thunbergia laurifolia extract (TLE) in the diets of Cherry Valley ducklings. Our investigation covered growth indicators, blood biochemical indices, meat quality, intestinal morphology, immune response, and CP450 enzyme-related gene expression. We conducted the study with 180 seven-day-old Cherry Valley ducks, randomly divided into five dietary treatments. These treatments included a basal diet without AFB1 (T1 group), TLE, or a commercial binder; the basal diet containing 0.1 mg AFB1/kg (T2 group), 0.1 mg AFB1/kg and 100 mg TLE/kg (T3 group), 0.1 mg AFB1/kg and 200 mg TLE/kg (T4 group), and 0.1 mg AFB1/kg and 0.5 g/kg of a commercial binder (T5 group), respectively. Ducklings fed with the T2 diet exhibited lower final body weight (BW), average body weight gain (ADG), and poor feed conversion ratio (FCR) during the 42-day trials. However, all ducklings in the T3, T4, and T5 groups showed significant improvements in final BW, ADG, and FCR compared to the T2 group. Increased alanine transaminase (ALT) concentration and increased expression of CYP1A1 and CYP1A2 indicated hepatotoxicity in ducklings fed the T2 diet. In contrast, ducklings fed T3, T4, and T5 diets all showed a decrease in the expression of CYP1A1 and CYP1A2, but only the T4 treatment group showed improvement in ALT concentration. AFB1 toxicity considerably raised the crypt depth (CD) in both the duodenum and jejunum of the T2 group, while the administration of 200 mg TLE/kg (T4) or a commercial binder (T5) effectively reduced this toxicity. Additionally, the villus width of the jejunum in the T2 treatment group decreased significantly, while all T3, T4, and T5 groups showed improvement in this regard. In summary, T. laurifolia extract can detoxify aflatoxicosis, leading to growth reduction and hepatic toxicosis in Cherry Valley ducklings.

Hepatoprotective effects of leaf extract of Annona senegalensis against aflatoxin B1 toxicity in rats

Global aflatoxin contamination of agricultural commodities is of the most concern in food safety and quality. This study investigated the hepatoprotective effect of 80% methanolic leaf extract of Annona senegalensis against aflatoxin B1 (AFB1)-induced toxicity in rats. A. senegalensis has shown to inhibit genotoxicity of aflatoxin B1 in vitro. The rats were divided into six groups including untreated control, aflatoxin B1 only (negative control); curcumin (positive control; 10 mg/kg); and three groups receiving different doses (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 300 mg/kg) of A. senegalensis extract. The rats received treatment (with the exception of untreated group) for 7 days prior to intoxication with aflatoxin B1. Serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, and creatinine were measured. Hepatic tissues were analysed for histological alterations. Administration of A. senegalensis extract demonstrated hepatoprotective effects against aflatoxin B1-induced toxicity in vivo by significantly reducing the level of serum aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase and regenerating the hepatocytes. No significant changes were observed in the levels of alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, and creatinine for the AFB1 intoxicated group, curcumin+AFB1 and Annona senegalensis leaf extract (ASLE)+AFB1 (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 300 mg/kg body weight [b.w.]) treated groups. Annona senegalensis is a good candidate for hepatoprotective agents and thus its use in traditional medicine may at least in part be justified.Contribution: The plant extract investigated in this study can be used in animal health to protect the organism from toxicity caused by mycotoxins.

Aflatoxins Contamination in Feed Commodities: From Occurrence and Toxicity to Recent Advances in Analytical Methods and Detoxification

Synthesized by the secondary metabolic pathway in Aspergilli, aflatoxins (AFs) cause economic and health issues and are culpable for serious harmful health and economic matters affecting consumers and global farmers. Consequently, the detection and quantification of AFs in foods/feeds are paramount from food safety and security angles. Nowadays, incessant attempts to develop sensitive and rapid approaches for AFs identification and quantification have been investigated, worldwide regulations have been established, and the safety of degrading enzymes and reaction products formed in the AF degradation process has been explored. Here, occurrences in feed commodities, innovative methods advanced for AFs detection, regulations, preventive strategies, biological detoxification, removal, and degradation methods were deeply reviewed and presented. This paper showed a state-of-the-art and comprehensive review of the recent progress on AF contamination in feed matrices with the intention of inspiring interests in both academia and industry.

Protective and Therapeutic Effects of Lactic Acid Bacteria against Aflatoxin B1 Toxicity to Rat Organs

BACKGROUND

Aflatoxin (AF), a metabolite of Aspergillus flavus, is injurious to vital body organs. The bacterial defense against such mycotoxins has attracted significant attention. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are known to ameliorate AF toxicity.

METHODS

Thirty adult male rats were divided into six groups (five each) to perform the experiments. The control (Co) group was fed a basal diet and water. Each of the following periods lasted 21 days: the milk (MK) group orally received milk (500 µL); LAB suspension (500 µL) containing 10⁷ cfu/mL was orally provided to the LAB group; AF (0.5 mg/kg) was orally given to the AF group; and a combination of AF and LAB was administered to the AF + LAB group. The AF/LAB group was initially given AF for 21 days, followed by LAB for the same period. Finally, the rats were dissected to retrieve blood and tissue samples for hematological, biochemical, and histological studies.

RESULTS

The results revealed a significant decrease in RBCs, lymphocytes, total proteins, eosinophil count, albumin, and uric acid, whereas the levels of WBCs, monocytes, neutrophils, creatinine, urea, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, and creatinine kinase significantly increased in the AF group in comparison to the control group. The histological examination of the AF group revealed necrosis and apoptosis of the kidney's glomeruli and renal tubules, nuclei vacuolization and apoptosis of hepatocytes, congestion of the liver's dilated portal vein, lymphoid depletion in the white pulp, localized hemorrhages, hemosiderin pigment deposition in the spleen, and vacuolization of seminiferous tubules with a complete loss of testis spermatogenic cells. Meanwhile, protective and therapeutic LAB administration in AF-treated rats improved the hematological, biochemical, and histological changes.

CONCLUSIONS

The study revealed LAB-based amelioration to AFB1-induced disruptions of the kidney, liver, spleen, and testis by inhibiting tissue damage. The therapeutic effects of LAB were comparatively more pronounced than the protective effects.

Aflatoxigenic Aspergillus Modulates Aflatoxin-B1 Levels through an Antioxidative Mechanism

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.

Integrated Metabolomics and Lipidomics Analysis Reveals Lipid Metabolic Disorder in NCM460 Cells Caused by Aflatoxin B1 and Aflatoxin M1 Alone and in Combination

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) are universally found as environmental pollutants. AFB1 and AFM1 are group 1 human carcinogens. Previous sufficient toxicological data show that they pose a health risk. The intestine is vital for resistance to foreign pollutants. The enterotoxic mechanisms of AFB1 and AFM1 have not been clarified at the metabolism levels. In the present study, cytotoxicity evaluations of AFB1 and AFM1 were conducted in NCM 460 cells by obtaining their half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50). The toxic effects of 2.5 μM AFB1 and AFM1 were determined by comprehensive metabolomics and lipidomics analyses on NCM460 cells. A combination of AFB1 and AFM1 induced more extensive metabolic disturbances in NCM460 cells than either aflatoxin alone. AFB1 exerted a greater effect in the combination group. Metabolomics pathway analysis showed that glycerophospholipid metabolism, fatty acid degradation, and propanoate metabolism were dominant pathways that were interfered with by AFB1, AFM1, and AFB1+AFM1. Those results suggest that attention should be paid to lipid metabolism after AFB1 and AFM1 exposure. Further, lipidomics was used to explore the fluctuation of AFB1 and AFM1 in lipid metabolism. The 34 specific lipids that were differentially induced by AFB1 were mainly attributed to 14 species, of which cardiolipin (CL) and triacylglycerol (TAG) accounted for 41%. AFM1 mainly affected CL and phosphatidylglycerol, approximately 70% based on 11 specific lipids, while 30 specific lipids were found in AFB1+AFM1, mainly reflected in TAG up to 77%. This research found for the first time that the lipid metabolism disorder caused by AFB1 and AFM1 was one of the main causes contributing to enterotoxicity, which could provide new insights into the toxic mechanisms of AFB1 and AFM1 in animals and humans.

Total Flavonoids of Rhizoma Drynariae Mitigates Aflatoxin B1-Induced Liver Toxicity in Chickens via Microbiota-Gut-Liver Axis Interaction Mechanisms

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a common mycotoxin that widely occurs in feed and has severe hepatotoxic effects both in humans and animals. Total flavonoids of Rhizoma Drynaria (TFRD), a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, have multiple biological activities and potential hepatoprotective activity. This study investigated the protective effects and potential mechanisms of TFRD against AFB1-induced liver injury. The results revealed that supplementation with TFRD markedly lessened broiler intestinal permeability by increasing the expression of intestinal tight junction proteins, as well as correcting the changes in gut microbiota and liver damage induced by AFB1. Metabolomics analysis revealed that the alterations in plasma metabolites, especially taurolithocholic acid, were significantly improved by TFRD treatment in AFB1-exposed chickens. In addition, these metabolites were closely associated with [Ruminococcus], ACC, and GPX1, indicating that AFB1 may cause liver injury by inducing bile acid metabolism involving the microbiota–gut–liver axis. We further found that TFRD treatment markedly suppressed oxidative stress and hepatic lipid deposition, increased plasma glutathione (GSH) concentrations, and reversed hepatic ferroptosis gene expression. Collectively, these findings indicate that ferroptosis might contribute to the hepatotoxicity of AFB1-exposed chickens through the microbiota–gut–liver axis interaction mechanisms; furthermore, TFRD was confirmed as an herbal extract that could potentially antagonize mycotoxins detrimental effects.

Route exposure and adverse effects monitoring of Aflatoxin B1 in the workers of wet waste management, the role of body redox system modulation

Exposure to dust, containing different fungi metabolites such as aflatoxins is a risk factor for developing liver and kidney health abnormalities. Occupational evaluation of the aflatoxin's exposure-induced health abnormalities should include the monitoring of bioaerosols in the workplace and personal air, and applying of appropriate blood biomarkers to assess Aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) detrimental effects on a worker's health. However, to the best of our knowledge, these appropriate methods, especially determining the associated-adverse effects on health, following exposure, haven't been well documented in the literature at the wet waste handling sites. In the current study, the AFB₁ quantity in the area, personal, and settled dust in wet household waste handling samples and AFB₁-Albumin levels in the serum of workers in comparison with the control group were determined using high-pressure liquid chromatography with a fluorescent detector (HPLC-FLD) methods. Moreover, the adverse effects of AFB₁ on the liver and kidney biochemical profiles of the exposed workers and its relation to antioxidant capacity in the household wet waste sorting were recorded in a consolidated investigation. The results demonstrated that the average airborne dust concentration and its associated AFB₁ content were significantly higher in wet waste management sections as compared to the control place, corresponding to the serum AFB₁-Albumin levels of workers. Furthermore, AFB₁-induced changes in the serum biochemicals evaluating liver and kidney function tests and antioxidant profiles of workers in wet waste handling sections were indicative of their function abnormalities. The results imply AFB₁-induced adverse effects on the liver and kidney functions may be mediated through the body redox system modulation.

A Case Report of Hypertriglyceridemia-Associated Acute Pancreatitis Following Use of Brazil Nut Weight-Loss Supplement

Purpose:

Brazil nuts ( Bertholletia excelsa) are consumed world-wide and have become a new trend in weight loss supplementation. We present a unique case of severe hypertriglyceridemia-associated acute pancreatitis following daily usage of a Brazil nut supplement product.

Summary:

A Hispanic female presented with severe hypertriglyceridemia and acute pancreatitis several months after starting a Brazil nut weight loss supplement in the setting of poorly controlled Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Her initial triglyceride level was undetectably high >10,000 mg/dL but improved rapidly following euglycemic insulin infusion and supplement cessation. The patient was managed with supportive care, started on oral fibrate therapy after abdominal symptoms improved, and was discharged to home in stable condition.

Conclusion:

It is essential for pharmacists to maintain a high index of suspicion for patients taking complementary and alternative medications and supplements who present with acutely altered laboratory parameters or onset of acute disease. In this instance, a patient was found to have profound hypertriglyceridemia with onset of acute pancreatitis following usage of a Brazil nut weight loss supplement.

May phytophenolics alleviate aflatoxins-induced health challenges? A holistic insight on current landscape and future prospects

The future GCC-connected environmental risk factors expedited the progression of nCDs. Indeed, the emergence of AFs is becoming a global food security concern. AFs are lethal carcinogenic mycotoxins, causing damage to the liver, kidney, and gastrointestinal organs. Long-term exposure to AFs leads to liver cancer. Almost a variety of food commodities, crops, spices, herbaceous materials, nuts, and processed foods can be contaminated with AFs. In this regard, the primary sections of this review aim to cover influencing factors in the occurrence of AFs, the role of AFs in progression of nCDs, links between GCC/nCDs and exposure to AFs, frequency of AFs-based academic investigations, and world distribution of AFs. Next, the current trends in the application of PPs to alleviate AFs toxicity are discussed. Nearly, more than 20,000 published records indexed in scientific databases have been screened to find recent trends on AFs and application of PPs in AFs therapy. Accordingly, shifts in world climate, improper infrastructures for production/storage of food commodities, inconsistency of global polices on AFs permissible concentration in food/feed, and lack of the public awareness are accounting for a considerable proportion of AFs damages. AFs exhibited their toxic effects by triggering the progression of inflammation and oxidative/nitrosative stress, in turn, leading to the onset of nCDs. PPs could decrease AFs-associated oxidative stress, genotoxic, mutagenic, and carcinogenic effects by improving cellular antioxidant balance, regulation of signaling pathways, alleviating inflammatory responses, and modification of gene expression profile in a dose/time-reliant fashion. The administration of PPs alone displayed lower biological properties compared to co-treatment of these metabolites with AFs. This issue might highlight the therapeutic application of PPs than their preventative content. Flavonoids such as quercetin and oxidized tea phenolics, curcumin and resveratrol were the most studied anti-AFs PPs. Our literature review clearly disclosed that considering PPs in antioxidant therapies to alleviate complications of AFs requires improvement in their bioavailability, pharmacokinetics, tissue clearance, and off-target mode of action. Due to the emergencies in the elimination of AFs in food/feedstuffs, further large-scale clinical assessment of PPs to decrease the consequences of AFs is highly required.

Hordeum vulgare L. microgreen mitigates reproductive dysfunction and oxidative stress in streptozotocin-induced diabetes and aflatoxicosis in male rats

Diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM) is a common chronic disease worldwide, which may be due to increased environmental pollution. Aflatoxin B1 is a likely inevitable contaminant in food and dairy products. Both DM and aflatoxicosis exert a deleterious effect on reproduction urging the exploration of various functional food for protection. This study investigated the effect of barley microgreen (BM) on reproductive disorders caused by DM with or without aflatoxicosis in male rats. Rats were divided into eight groups; G1 control, G2 barley, G3 aflatoxin, G4 aflatoxin-barley, G5 streptozotocin (STZ), G6 STZ-barley, G7 STZ-aflatoxin, and G8 STZ-aflatoxin-barley. BM chemical composition revealed elevated calcium, iron, phosphorus, and vitamin A compared with barely seeds. Complete blood picture, lipid profile, serum oxidative stress parameters, relative testicular weight, sperm analysis, chromosomal aberration, and testis histopathology were performed. The lipid profile was altered significantly in G7. Oxidative stress was increased in G3, G5, and G7, whereas it was decreased in BM-treated groups. Sperm counts were reduced significantly in aflatoxin and/or STZ groups but increased significantly in BM-treated groups. Sperm morphological abnormalities and chromosomal aberrations were decreased significantly in BM-treated groups compared with untreated groups. Testicular histopathology revealed moderate diffuse degeneration of seminiferous tubules in aflatoxin and/or STZ groups, which were alleviated in BM-treated groups. In conclusion, aflatoxin and STZ together caused severe reproductive disorder and oxidative stress more than aflatoxin or STZ alone. BM diet reduced significantly oxidative stress and reproductive disorder associated with DM and aflatoxicosis in rats.

Research progress in toxicological effects and mechanism of aflatoxin B1 toxin

Fungal contamination of animal feed can severely affect the health of farm animals, and result in considerable economic losses. Certain filamentous fungi or molds produce toxic secondary metabolites known as mycotoxins, of which aflatoxins (AFTs) are considered the most critical dietary risk factor for both humans and animals. AFTs are ubiquitous in the environment, soil, and food crops, and aflatoxin B₁(AFB₁) has been identified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of the most potent natural group 1A carcinogen. We reviewed the literature on the toxic effects of AFB₁ in humans and animals along with its toxicokinetic properties. The damage induced by AFB₁ in cells and tissues is mainly achieved through cell cycle arrest and inhibition of cell proliferation, and the induction of apoptosis, oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and autophagy. In addition, numerous coding genes and non-coding RNAs have been identified that regulate AFB₁ toxicity. This review is a summary of the current research on the complexity of AFB₁ toxicity, and provides insights into the molecular mechanisms as well as the phenotypic characteristics.

The Influence of Aflatoxin B1 on the Concentration of Nuclear Factor κB in Rats’ Livers

Introduction. Aflatoxins are metabolites produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. Due to the high prevalence of aflatoxin-containing products they are common issue of the observational studies. Observational studies have demonstrated the hepatotoxic effects of aflatoxins in humans. However, the exact pathogenetic mechanisms of the effect of aflatoxin B1 on the above-mentioned hepatotoxicity have not yet been known.

Aim of the study. The aim of the study was to assess the toxic effects of different doses of aflatoxin B1. The analyze was performed using assessment of concentration of NF-κB in liver tissue homogenates after a 7-day intoxication with this mycotoxin.

Material and methods. The studies were carried out on Wistar male rats which were selected randomly, according to the principle of simultaneity for the control group and the study groups. The concentration of NK-κB was determined by immunoenzymatic ELISA in the obtained supernatants of liver taken from decapitated animals. The statistical analysis was performed with Statistica 13.3 (Statsoft, USA).

Results. The statistical significance of the difference between the concentrations in the control and study group receiving 1.0 mg/kg of aflatoxin B1 and between the control and study group who received aflatoxin B1 at a dose of 2.0 mg/kg body weight (p <0,05) were demonstrated. A significant relationship was also found between the level of dose of aflatoxin B1 administered to the rats and the concentration of NF-κB. Negative correlations were obtained. The higher dose administered to rats - the lower level of measured concentration of NF-κB.

Conclusions. The study of the influence of aflatoxin B1 on the level of NF-κB transcription factor may significantly contribute to understand the mechanism of its action, influence on inflammatory, apoptotic and carcinogenic processes in the liver and determine its safe level in food intended for humans and animals.

The Effect of Silybum Marianum Seed, Thymus Vulgaris, and Rosmarinus Officinalis Powders in Alleviating the Risks of Aflatoxin B1 in Young Broiler Chicks

This investigation was aimed to evaluate the effects of Silybum marianum seed, Thymus vulgaris, and Rosmarinus officinalis powders and their combination in alleviating the risks of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in young broiler chicks. One-day-old Ross 308 male broiler chickens were allocated to 6 experimental groups from d 1 to 21. The experimental dietary groups included: Negative control (NC) received the basal diet, Positive control (PC) containing 2 mg AFB1/kg diet; Positive control + 10 g/kg diet of Silybum marianum seed (SMS); Positive control + 10 g/kg diet of Thymus vulgaris (TV); Positive control + 5 g/kg diet of Rosmarinus officinalis (RO); Positive control + 10 g/kg diet of SMS + 10 g/kg diet of TV + 5 g/kg diet of RO as a blend of herbs (BH). There was no difference between feed intake and body weight gain among the experimental groups (P>0.05). In contrast, the feed conversion rate (FCR) in NC and SMS groups was lower than in other groups (P<0.05). Calcium levels and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) were lower in serum samples, but the activity of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were higher in PC chickens (P<0.05). Increase in the thigh muscle malondialdehyde (MDA) in chickens fed AFB1 was significantly reduced in the NC, SMS, and BH chickens (P<0.05). Chickens of NC and SMS groups showed the highest response to respiratory burst of heterophil (NBT assay) and lymphocyte proliferation assays (MTT assay) (P<0.05). In conclusion, the addition of studied herbs, especially SMS, to the AFB1 contaminated diet could have a protective effect against aflatoxicosis in broiler chickens.

Curcumin Supplementation Protects Broiler Chickens Against the Renal Oxidative Stress Induced by the Dietary Exposure to Low Levels of Aflatoxin B1

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) causes hepatotoxicity, immunotoxicity, and kidney damage, and it is included in group I of human carcinogens. The European Commission has established maximum limits of AFB1 in feed, ranging from 5 to 20 μg/kg. Chicken is moderately sensitive to AFB1, which results in reduced growth performance and economic losses. Oxidative stress triggered by AFB1 plays a crucial role in kidney damage and the antioxidant activity of Curcumin (CURC) could help in preventing such adverse effect. Twenty-days-old broilers were treated for 10 days with AFB1 (0.02 mg/kg feed), alone or in combination with CURC (400 mg/kg feed), to explore the effects on the renal tissue. Animals exposed to AFB1 alone displayed alterations of the oxidative stress parameters compared with controls: serum antioxidant capacity, and enzymatic activity of kidney superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase were decreased, while renal malondialdehyde levels and NADPH oxidase complex expression were increased. The administration of CURC attenuates all the oxidative stress parameters modified by AFB1 in the chicken kidney, opening new perspectives in the management of aflatoxicosis.

Caffeic acid protects against DNA damage, oxidative and inflammatory mediated toxicities, and upregulated caspases activation in the hepatorenal system of rats treated with aflatoxin B1

Aflatoxicosis can induce largescale toxicities in predisposed populations. Food fortification with adequate antioxidant sources may reduce the toxic burden from aflatoxicosis. We examined the individual and combined effect of Caffeic acid (CA) on the aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁)-induced hepatic and renal injury in male rats. Five experimental rat cohort (n = 6) consisting of the control (2 mL/kg corn oil), AFB₁ alone (50 μg/kg), CA alone (40 mg/kg), AFB₁+CA₁ (50 μg/kg + 20 mg/kg) and AFB₁+CA₂ (50 μg/kg + 40 mg/kg) were so treated for 28 consecutive days. Upon sacrifices, diagnostic markers of hepatorenal functions, oxidative stress, inflammation, oxidative deoxyribonucleic acid -DNA-damage and apoptosis were analysed. Our results showed that CA reduced AFB₁-induced toxicities in rats' liver and kidneys by significantly increasing (p < 0.05) endogenous antioxidant and the anti-inflammatory IL-10 level. Caffeic acid simultaneously reduced hepatic and renal dysfunction biomarkers in the serum, oxidative stress, and lipid peroxidation levels. Besides, CA diminished reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, inflammatory nitric oxide levels, interleukin-1 β and the activities of xanthine oxidase and myeloperoxidase. Additionally, CA reduced DNA damage and caspase-mediated apoptotic responses and preserved the cytoarchitecture of rats' liver and kidneys treated with AFB₁. These data suggest that CA can be used as a food additive to mitigate AFB₁-induced toxicity in the examined organs.

Assessment of the protective effect of yeast cell wall β-glucan encapsulating humic acid nanoparticles as an aflatoxin B1 adsorbent in vivo

This study aimed to assess the protective effect of encapsulating humic acid-iron complexed nanoparticles (HA-Fe NPs) inside glucanmannan lipid particles (GMLPs) extracted from yeast cell wall against aflatoxin B (AFB₁ ) toxicity in vivo. Four groups of male Sprague-Dawley rats were treated orally for 2 weeks included the control group, AFB₁ treated group (80 µg/kg b.w); GMLP/HA-Fe NPs treated group (0.5 mg/kg b.w), and the group treated with AFB₁ plus GMLP/HA-Fe NPs. GMLPs are empty 3-4 micron permeable microspheres that provide an efficient system for the synthesis and encapsulation of AFB₁ -absorbing nanoparticles (NPs). Humic acid nanoparticles (HA-NPs) were incorporated inside the GMLP cavity by complexation with ferric chloride. In vivo study revealed that AFB₁ significantly elevated serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, creatinine, uric acid, urea, cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, malondialdehyde, and nitric oxide. It significantly decreased total protein, high-density lipoprotein, hepatic and renal CAT and glutathione peroxidase content and induced histological changes in the liver and kidney (p ≤ 0.05). The coadministration of the synthesized formulation GMLP/HA-Fe NPs with AFB₁ has a protective effect against AFB₁ -induced hepato-nephrotoxicity, oxidative stress and histological alterations in the liver and kidney.

Biochemical investigation of human exposure to aflatoxin M1 and its association with risk factors of diabetes mellitus

Recently, aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) has emerged as a major health concern owing to its exposure to human being via consumption of milk, dairy products, and food commodities, and this has a strong association with risk factors that may lead to the onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and various other associated metabolic disorders. This study was conducted to investigate the exposure to AFM1 and its association with sociodemographic features and risk factors of T2DM. Urine and blood samples from 672 participants were collected to investigate the concentration of AFM1 in urine and glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), insulin, α-amylase, dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV), free fatty acids (FFAs), triglycerides (TGs), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-chol), interleukine-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), creatinine, uric acid, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine transaminase (ALT) from the blood of study participants. Association of exposure to AFM1 with sociodemographic features and risk factors of T2DM was determined using person correlation coefficient (r), coefficient of determination (R²), and 95% confidence interval, and the level of significance (P<0.05) was measured by Student's unpaired t-test. Among the participants in which AFM1 was detected, 62.91% of participants were found to be diabetic and 37.09% of participants were found to be non-diabetic. Further to this, it was also found that concentration of AFM1 in the urine of diabetic participants was found to be higher (P<0.05) as compared to that in non-diabetic participants. Association of AFM1 exposure with risk factors of T2MD exhibits that exposure to AFM1 was responsible for the induction of inflammatory responses and oxidative stress that may lead to the onset of impaired insulin secretion and metabolism of carbohydrates and ultimately the onset of T2DM and associated metabolic disorders. Hence, it can be summarized that exposure to AFM1 is one of the causative factors that may lead to potentiate the several risk factors notably inflammatory responses and oxidative stress that ultimately induce the pathogenesis of T2DM and associated metabolic disorders. The key findings of this study suggest that human population who are at greater risk of AFM1 exposure can develop T2DM and other associated metabolic risk factors.

The effect of lycopene on hepatotoxicity of aflatoxin B1 in rats

Oxidative damage caused by aflatoxin (AF) in rat liver tissue and the inhibition effect of lycopene against this injury was investigated. Groups were formed as; control group (not treated), lycopene group (5 mg/kg/day, gavage for 15 days), AFB1 group (0.5 mg/kg/day, gavage for 7 days) and AFB1 + lycopene group. Lycopene administered simultaneously with AFB1. It was observed significant increase in malondialdehyde level, decrease in glutathione level, antioxidant enzyme activities in liver tissue of AFB1 group when compared with control group. It was determined to significantly increase in plasma aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, lactate dehydrogenase activities in AFB1 group when compared with control group. It was determined significant decrease in malondialdehyde level, plasma aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, lactate dehydrogenase activities and increase in glutathione level, antioxidant enzyme activities in AFB1 + lycopene group when compared with AFB1 group. This study suggests that lycopene which has antioxidant properties can be prevented from AFB1 induced hepatotoxicity.

Embryonic exposure to low concentrations of aflatoxin B1 triggers global transcriptomic changes, defective yolk lipid mobilization, abnormal gastrointestinal tract development and inflammation in zebrafish

Aflatoxin B1-contaminated feeds and foods induce various health problems in domesticated animals and humans, including tumor development and hepatotoxicity. Aflatoxin B1 also has embryotoxic effects in different livestock species and humans. However, it is difficult to distinguish between the indirect, maternally-mediated toxic effects and the direct embryotoxicity of aflatoxin B1 in mammals. In the present study, we investigated the aflatoxin B1-induced direct embryotoxic effects in a zebrafish embryo model system combining toxicological, transcriptomic, immunological, and biochemical approaches. Embryonic exposure to aflatoxin B1 induced significant changes at the transcriptome level resulting in elevated expression of inflammatory gene network and repression of lipid metabolism and gastrointestinal tract development-related gene sets. According to the gene expression changes, massive neutrophil granulocyte influx, elevated nitric oxide production, and yolk lipid accumulation were observed in the abdominal region of aflatoxin B1-exposed larvae. In parallel, aflatoxin B1-induced defective gastrointestinal tract development and reduced L-arginine level were found in our model system. Our results revealed the complex direct embryotoxic effects of aflatoxin B1, including inhibited lipid utilization, defective intestinal development, and inflammation.

Comprehensive Metabolomic Analysis Reveals Dynamic Metabolic Reprogramming in Hep3B Cells with Aflatoxin B1 Exposure

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) exposure have been recognized as independent risk factors for the occurrence and development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but their combined impacts and the potential metabolic mechanisms remain poorly characterized. Here, a comprehensive non-targeted metabolomic study was performed following AFB1 exposed to Hep3B cells at two different doses: 16 μM and 32 μM. The metabolites were identified and quantified by an ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS)-based strategy. A total of 2679 metabolites were identified, and 392 differential metabolites were quantified among three groups. Pathway analysis indicated that dynamic metabolic reprogramming was induced by AFB1 and various pathways changed significantly, including purine and pyrimidine metabolism, hexosamine pathway and sialylation, fatty acid synthesis and oxidation, glycerophospholipid metabolism, tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, glycolysis, and amino acid metabolism. To the best of our knowledge, the alteration of purine and pyrimidine metabolism and decrease of hexosamine pathways and sialylation with AFB1 exposure have not been reported. The results indicated that our metabolomic strategy is powerful to investigate the metabolome change of any stimulates due to its high sensitivity, high resolution, rapid separation, and good metabolome coverage. Besides, these findings provide an overview of the metabolic mechanisms of the AFB1 combined with HBV and new insight into the toxicological mechanism of AFB1. Thus, targeting these metabolic pathways may be an approach to prevent carcinogen-induced cancer, and these findings may provide potential drug targets for therapeutic intervention.

Vitamin D: Possible Therapeutic Roles in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a unique type of liver cancer instigated by underlying liver diseases. Pre-clinical evidence suggests that HCC progression, like other cancers, could be aided by vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D is a lipid-soluble hormone usually obtained through sunlight. Vitamin D elucidates its biological responses by binding the vitamin D receptor; thus, promoting skeletal mineralization, and maintain calcium homeostasis. Other reported Vitamin D functions include specific roles in proliferation, angiogenesis, apoptosis, inflammation, and cell differentiation. This review highlighted studies on vitamin D's functional roles in HCC and discussed the specific therapeutic targets from various in vivo, in vitro and clinical studies over the years. Furthermore, it described recent advancements in vitamin D's anticancer effects and its metabolizing enzymes' roles in HCC development. In summary, the review elucidated specific vitamin D-associated target genes that play critical functions in the inhibition of tumorigenesis through inflammation, oxidative stress, invasion, and apoptosis in HCC progression.

Aflatoxin B1 inhibited autophagy flux by inducing lysosomal alkalinization in HepG2 cells

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a hazard food pollutant and the most toxic one of all the aflatoxins. It is mainly metabolized in the liver and exerts strong hepatotoxicity and carcinogenesis. Autophagy is an important biological process to maintain the homeostasis of intracellular environment. But the role of autophagy in AFB1-exposured hepatotoxicity remains unclear. The objective of this study was to explore the effect of AFB1 on autophagy flux and its potential mechanisms in HepG2 cells. The data showed AFB1 with no-observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) induced the accumulation of autophagosomes by detecting the level of LC3 and MDC staining. Subsequent findings revealed that autophagosome accumulation was caused by the inhibition of autophagy flux by transfection mRFP-GFP-LC3 adenovirus in the presence of autophagy inhibitor 3-MA and CQ. Further, we investigated lysosomal pH by Acridine orange (AO) and Lysotracker Red (LTR) staining and found that AFB1 exposure caused lysosomal alkalinization. These results indicated AFB1 with NOAEL could inhibit autophagy flux by inducing lysosomal alkalinization. Our study was helpful to further explain early hepatotoxicity mechanism of AFB1.

Aflatoxicosis in Pekin duckling and the effects of treatments with lycopene and silymarin

Background and Aim:

Aflatoxins (AFs) are potent toxic metabolites produced from Aspergillus species. Whose existence in poultry ration leads to drastic economic losses, notably in duck, as the most susceptible poultry species. This study aimed to determine tissue residues of AFs, alterations in selected clinical chemistry variables in serum, mainly during the exposure period, and lycopene and silymarin’s possible roles as herbal treatments against aflatoxicosis in Pekin duckling.

Materials and Methods:

The study used one hundred and twenty one-day-old Pekin ducklings and classified them into four groups comprising 30 ducklings in each group. The control group (G1) ducklings were fed a mycotoxin-free ration, and G2 received a naturally contaminated ration with 30 ppb of AFs. G3 and G4 consumed contaminated rations with AFs with 30 ppb for 2 weeks and were treated with lycopene 100 mg/kg or silymarin 600 mg/kg/food, respectively, for 10 days. Serum activities of alanine transaminase and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), glutamyl transferase, ALP, total protein and albumin creatinine and uric acid concentrations, oxidant/antioxidant parameters (malondialdehyde [MDA], total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and catalase [CAT]), and hepatic AFs residue were determined. Lycopene and silymarin were used for the treatment of aflatoxicosis for another 10 days.

Results:

Hepatic and kidney parameters were elevated in the AFs intoxicated group and reduced in the lycopene- and silymarin-treated groups. They had elevated MDA and AFs residues with decreased antioxidant parameters (TAC, GST, and CAT) in the AFs group. At the same time, treatment with lycopene or silymarin had reversed the action of AFs on MDA, elevated the hepatic residue, and improved antioxidant activity.

Conclusion:

Lycopene and silymarin, with their potent antioxidant activity, can be used to reverse the harmful effects of AFs on hepatic and kidney tissue.

Toxicological and physiological effects of successive exposure to ochratoxin A at food regulatory limits

Ochratoxin A (OTA), a potent mycotoxin, is a common contaminant of agro-products, which seriously threatens food safety. The OTA regulatory limits vary from different countries/regions. However, little is known about the toxicological effects of successive exposure to regulatory levels of OTA. In this study, feedstuffs contaminated with 0.5-20 μg kg^-1 OTA were evaluated in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. During the study, poisoning-associated behaviors, and significant differences of body weight and food intake, were not observed between OTA-treated rats and control group. However, the renal function indexes of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (CR) increased, and architecture destruction of glomeruli and tubuli was observed from the OTA-treated groups. The apoptosis study indicated that at a concentration of 20 μg kg^-1, OTA modulated apoptosis in renal tissues via the Bcl-2/Bax pathway. The results of this study suggest that exposure to low doses of OTA successively at levels lower than the regulatory limits of certain countries could induce nephrotoxicity, and modulate apoptosis. Therefore, agencies pertaining to food safety should establish strict OTA regulatory limits for food and feedstuff.

Early Life Exposure to Aflatoxin B1 in Rats: Alterations in Lipids, Hormones, and DNA Methylation among the Offspring

Aflatoxins are toxic compounds produced by molds of the Aspergillus species that contaminate food primarily in tropical countries. The most toxic aflatoxin, aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), is a major cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in these countries. In sub-Saharan Africa, aflatoxin contamination is common, and perinatal AFB1 exposure has been linked to the early onset of HCC. Epigenetic programming, including changes to DNA methylation, is one mechanism by which early life exposures can lead to adult disease. This study aims to elucidate whether perinatal AFB1 exposure alters markers of offspring health including weight, lipid, and hormone profiles as well as epigenetic regulation that may later influence cancer risk. Pregnant rats were exposed to two doses of AFB1 (low 0.5 and high 5 mg/kg) before conception, throughout pregnancy, and while weaning and compared to an unexposed group. Offspring from each group were followed to 3 weeks or 3 months of age, and their blood and liver samples were collected. Body weights and lipids were assessed at 3 weeks and 3 months while reproductive, gonadotropic, and thyroid hormones were assessed at 3 months. Prenatal AFB1 (high dose) exposure resulted in significant 16.3%, 31.6%, and 7.5% decreases in weight of the offspring at birth, 3 weeks, and 3 months, respectively. Both doses of exposure altered lipid and hormone profiles. Pyrosequencing was used to quantify percent DNA methylation at tumor suppressor gene Tp53 and growth-regulator H19 in DNA from liver and blood. Results were compared between the control and AFB1 exposure groups in 3-week liver samples and 3-week and 3-month blood samples. Relative to controls, Tp53 DNA methylation in both low- and high-dose exposed rats was significantly decreased in liver samples and increased in the blood (p < 0.05 in linear mixed models). H19 methylation was higher in the liver from low- and high-exposed rats and decreased in 3-month blood samples from the high exposure group (p < 0.05). Further research is warranted to determine whether such hormone, lipid, and epigenetic alterations from AFB1 exposure early in life play a role in the development of early-onset HCC.

Contamination of Aflatoxins Induces Severe Hepatotoxicity Through Multiple Mechanisms

Aflatoxins (AFs) are commonly contaminating mycotoxins in foods and medicinal materials. Since they were first discovered to cause “turkey X” disease in the United Kingdom in the early 1960s, the extreme toxicity of AFs in the human liver received serious attention. The liver is the major target organ where AFs are metabolized and converted into extremely toxic forms to engender hepatotoxicity. AFs influence mitochondrial respiratory function and destroy normal mitochondrial structure. AFs initiate damage to mitochondria and subsequent oxidative stress. AFs block cellular survival pathways, such as autophagy that eliminates impaired cellular structures and the antioxidant system that copes with oxidative stress, which may underlie their high toxicities. AFs induce cell death via intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis pathways and influence the cell cycle and growth via microribonucleic acids (miRNAs). Furthermore, AFs induce the hepatic local inflammatory microenvironment to exacerbate hepatotoxicity via upregulation of NF-κB signaling pathway and inflammasome assembly in the presence of Kupffer cells (liver innate immunocytes). This review addresses the mechanisms of AFs-induced hepatotoxicity from various aspects and provides background knowledge to better understand AFs-related hepatoxic diseases.

Comparative consequences of two sources of aflatoxins in ducklings experimental aflatoxicosis

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of two aflatoxins (AFs) sources for experimental induction of aflatoxicosis in ducklings. Dietary supplementation of aflatoxin-contaminated grounded rice grains previously was cultured by Aspergillus parasiticus and dietary supplementation of aflatoxin methanolic extract of contaminated rice grains. A total number of 18 four-day-old ducklings were treated with varying sources of AFs. Treatments included: A: Control (basal diet without AFs), B: Contaminated feed with 0.20 mg kg^-1 AFs (ground rice grains), C: Contaminated feed with 0.20 mg kg^-1 AFs (methanol extract of contaminated rice grains). Results showed a significant decrease in serum levels of total protein, albumin, glucose, triglyceride, cholesterol, HDL, LDL and creatinine. The serum's hepatic enzymes levels were not affected in AFs-treated groups but lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) concentration increased by the two AFs sources. The relative weight of the liver and spleen was significantly increased in AFs-fed groups. Histopathological liver examination showed the vacuolar degeneration with small and large lipid droplets in hepatocytes in the AFs- contaminated groups. Dietary AFs resulted in a significant decrease of villus height, villus width and villus surface area of the small intestine compared to the control group. In conclusion, the results showed that the induction of experimental aflatoxicosis via two investigated AFs sources had slight differences concerning the studied parameters. It seems the group consumed ground rice grains indicated slightly fewer aflatoxicosis symptoms than the methanolic extract.

3D-bioprinted HepaRG cultures as a model for testing long term aflatoxin B1 toxicity in vitro

In recent years 3D-bioprinting technology has been developed as an alternative to animal testing. It possesses a great potential for in vitro testing as it aims to mimic human organs and physiology. In the present study, an alginate-gelatin-Matrigel based hydrogel was used to prepare 3D-bioprinted HepaRG cultures using a pneumatic extrusion printer. These 3D models were tested for viability and metabolic functions. Using 3D-bioprinted HepaRG cultures, we tested the toxicity of aflatoxin B1 (10 or 20 μM) in vitro and compared the results with 2D HepaRG cultures. There was a dose-dependent toxicity effect on cell viability, reduction of metabolic activity and albumin production. We found that 3D-bioprinted HepaRG cultures are more resistant to aflatoxin B1 treatment than 2D cultures. Although the metabolic activities were reduced upon treatment with aflatoxin B1, the 3D models were still viable and survived longer, up to 3 weeks, than the 2D culture, as visualized by fluorescence microscopy. Furthermore, albumin production recovered slightly in 3D models after one and two weeks of treatment. Taken together, we consider using 3D-bioprinting technology to generate 3D tissue models as an alternative way to study toxicity in vitro and this could also provide a suitable alternative for chronic hepatotoxicity studies in vitro.

Functional yogurt aims to protect against the aflatoxin B1 toxicity in rats

Recently, the rise of mycotoxin contamination in food materials was found to be due to several factors, including climatic changes' impact. Therefore, the aim of this study was to provide a novel food product that allows the reduction of aflatoxin impact in animal tissues. Chicory root-extract (CRE) was evaluated for its active components, antioxidant potency, and antimicrobial activity. The CRE was utilized to produce functional yogurt (FY) that was evaluated in-vivo using experimental rats. The CRE showed high antioxidant activity and recorded valuable content of the active components. Results also showed a high antimicrobial effect against toxigenic fungal strains. The results have reflected the efficiency of the FY to suppress aflatoxin impacts in the animal tissues and biochemical parameters of rats-serum. An enhancement was recorded inliver and kidney functions for rats taking FY with the presence of aflatoxin. It was concluded that consumption of the FY assisted in suppression of the oxidative stress in rats-tissues.

Aflatoxin B1-Induced COX-2 Expression Promotes Mitophagy and Contributes to Lipid Accumulation in Hepatocytes In Vitro and In Vivo

AIM

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is hepatotoxic. Numerous studies have shown that mitochondria play an essential role in AFB1-induced steatosis. However, the mechanisms of AFB1-induced steatosis via mitochondria are still obscure. The present study aimed to confirm that AFB1 causes hepatocyte steatosis regulated by cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)-induced mitophagy, both in vivo and in vitro.

METHODS

Adult male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into control group with the same volume of peanut oil and exposure group administered 0.6 mg/kg AFB1 once in 2 days for 1 month. HepG2 and Cas9-PTGS2 cells were treated with 5 μM AFB1 for 48 hours. Then, various indicators were evaluated.

RESULTS

Aflatoxin B1 causes liver injury and steatosis with increased alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total cholesterol, total triglyceride levels in vivo and in vitro, and elevated lipid droplets in HepG2 cells. Cyclooxygenase-2 and mitophagy pathway were induced by AFB1 in both liver tissues and cultured HepG2 cells. Further studies have shown that knockout of COX-2 with the CRISPR/Cas9 system inhibited the AFB1-induced mitophagy and steatosis in HepG2 cells. Also, the inhibition of PTEN-induced putative kinase with RNA interference attenuated the AFB1-induced steatosis.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the current study suggested that AFB1 increases the expression of COX-2, which, in turn, elevates the level of mitophagy, thereby disrupting the normal mitochondrial lipid metabolism and causing steatosis. Thus, this study implies that COX-2 may be a potential target for therapy against AFB1-induced steatosis.

Involvement of hepatic lipid droplets and their associated proteins in the detoxification of aflatoxin B1 in aflatoxin-resistance BALB/C mouse

The highly potent carcinogen, Aflatoxin B₁, induces liver cancer in many animals including humans but some mice strains are highly resistant. This murine resistance is due to a rapid detoxification of AFB₁. Hepatic lipid droplets (LDs) ultimately impact the liver functions but their potential role in AFB₁ detoxification has not been addressed. This study describes the structural and functional impacts on hepatic LDs in BALB/C mice after exposure to 44 (low dose) or 663 (high dose) μg AFB₁/kg of body weight. After 7 days, the liver of AFB₁-dosed mice did not accumulate any detectable AFB₁ or its metabolites and this was associated with a net increase in gene transcripts of the AhR-mediating pathway. Of particular interest, the livers of high-dose mice accumulated many more LDs than those of low-dose mice. This was accompanied with a net increase in transcript levels of LD-associated protein-encoding genes including Plin2, Plin3 and Cideb and an alteration in the LDs lipid profiles that could be likely due to the induction of lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase genes. Interestingly, our data suggest that hepatic LDs catalyze the in vitro activation of AFB₁ into AFB₁-exo-8,9-epoxide and subsequent hydrolysis of this epoxide into its corresponding dihydrodiol. Finally, transcript levels of CYP1A2, CYP1B1, GSTA3 and EH1 genes were elevated in livers of high-dose mice. These data suggest new roles for hepatic LDs in the trapping and detoxifying of aflatoxins.

Characteristics, Occurrence, Detection and Detoxification of Aflatoxins in Foods and Feeds

Mycotoxin contamination continues to be a food safety concern globally, with the most toxic being aflatoxins. On-farm aflatoxins, during food transit or storage, directly or indirectly result in the contamination of foods, which affects the liver, immune system and reproduction after infiltration into human beings and animals. There are numerous reports on aflatoxins focusing on achieving appropriate methods for quantification, precise detection and control in order to ensure consumer safety. In 2012, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, G2, M1 and M2 as group 1 carcinogenic substances, which are a global human health concern. Consequently, this review article addresses aflatoxin chemical properties and biosynthetic processes; aflatoxin contamination in foods and feeds; health effects in human beings and animals due to aflatoxin exposure, as well as aflatoxin detection and detoxification methods.

Risk assessment of aflatoxins in food

EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the risks to public health related to the presence of aflatoxins in food. The risk assessment was confined to aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), AFB2, AFG1, AFG2 and AFM1. More than 200,000 analytical results on the occurrence of aflatoxins were used in the evaluation. Grains and grain-based products made the largest contribution to the mean chronic dietary exposure to AFB1 in all age classes, while 'liquid milk' and 'fermented milk products' were the main contributors to the AFM1 mean exposure. Aflatoxins are genotoxic and AFB1 can cause hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) in humans. The CONTAM Panel selected a benchmark dose lower confidence limit (BMDL) for a benchmark response of 10% of 0.4 μg/kg body weight (bw) per day for the incidence of HCC in male rats following AFB1 exposure to be used in a margin of exposure (MOE) approach. The calculation of a BMDL from the human data was not appropriate; instead, the cancer potencies estimated by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives in 2016 were used. For AFM1, a potency factor of 0.1 relative to AFB1 was used. For AFG1, AFB2 and AFG2, the in vivo data are not sufficient to derive potency factors and equal potency to AFB1 was assumed as in previous assessments. MOE values for AFB1 exposure ranged from 5,000 to 29 and for AFM1 from 100,000 to 508. The calculated MOEs are below 10,000 for AFB1 and also for AFM1 where some surveys, particularly for the younger age groups, have an MOE below 10,000. This raises a health concern. The estimated cancer risks in humans following exposure to AFB1 and AFM1 are in-line with the conclusion drawn from the MOEs. The conclusions also apply to the combined exposure to all five aflatoxins.

Toxicological and Medical Aspects of Aspergillus-Derived Mycotoxins Entering the Feed and Food Chain

Due to Earth's changing climate, the ongoing and foreseeable spreading of mycotoxigenic Aspergillus species has increased the possibility of mycotoxin contamination in the feed and food production chain. These harmful mycotoxins have aroused serious health and economic problems since their first appearance. The most potent Aspergillus-derived mycotoxins include aflatoxins, ochratoxins, gliotoxin, fumonisins, sterigmatocystin, and patulin. Some of them can be found in dairy products, mainly in milk and cheese, as well as in fresh and especially in dried fruits and vegetables, in nut products, typically in groundnuts, in oil seeds, in coffee beans, in different grain products, like rice, wheat, barley, rye, and frequently in maize and, furthermore, even in the liver of livestock fed by mycotoxin-contaminated forage. Though the mycotoxins present in the feed and food chain are well documented, the human physiological effects of mycotoxin exposure are not yet fully understood. It is known that mycotoxins have nephrotoxic, genotoxic, teratogenic, carcinogenic, and cytotoxic properties and, as a consequence, these toxins may cause liver carcinomas, renal dysfunctions, and also immunosuppressed states. The deleterious physiological effects of mycotoxins on humans are still a first-priority question. In food production and also in the case of acute and chronic poisoning, there are possibilities to set suitable food safety measures into operation to minimize the effects of mycotoxin contaminations. On the other hand, preventive actions are always better, due to the multivariate nature of mycotoxin exposures. In this review, the occurrence and toxicological features of major Aspergillus-derived mycotoxins are summarized and, furthermore, the possibilities of treatments in the medical practice to heal the deleterious consequences of acute and/or chronic exposures are presented.

Sitagliptin protects liver against aflatoxin B1-induced hepatotoxicity through upregulating Nrf2/ARE/HO-1 pathway

Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor (DPP-4 inhibitor) such as sitagliptin has been presented as antidiabetic drugs and has numerous restorative advantages over different diseases; however, its defensive role against aflatoxin b1 (AFB1) liver toxicity has not been previously examined. Wistar rats (65 weeks, male) were utilized in the investigation. Animals were divided into five different groups (n = 10): control; AFB1; AFB1 + Sita (50); AFB1 + Sita (100); and Sita (100). Sitagliptin significantly (*p ≤ .05, **p ≤ .01, and ***p ≤ .001) altered the levels of various serum liver enzymes (lactate dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphate, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase). It decreased the concentration of an oxidative stress marker, that is, malondialdehyde and increased the level of antioxidant enzymes such as reduced glutathione, catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase in AFB1-administered rats. It also improved the Nrf2 expression and HO-1 level in AFB1-intoxicated rats. This investigation discusses innovative evidence on the protective role of sitagliptin against AFB1-induced hepatotoxicity in rats.

Epigenetic modifications associated with in utero exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals BPA, DDT and Pb

Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are xenobiotics which adversely modify the hormone system. The endocrine system is most vulnerable to assaults by endocrine disruptors during the prenatal and early development window, and effects may persist into adulthood and across generations. The prenatal stage is a period of vulnerability to environmental chemicals because the epigenome is usually reprogrammed during this period. Bisphenol A (BPA), lead (Pb), and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) were chosen for critical review because they have become serious public health concerns globally, especially in Africa where they are widely used without any regulation. In this review, we introduce EDCs and describe the various modes of action of EDCs and the importance of the prenatal and developmental windows to EDC exposure. We give a brief overview of epigenetics and describe the various epigenetic mechanisms: DNA methylation, histone modifications and non-coding RNAs, and how each of them affects gene expression. We then summarize findings from previous studies on the effects of prenatal exposure to the endocrine disruptors BPA, Pb and DDT on each of the previously described epigenetic mechanisms. We also discuss how the epigenetic alterations caused by these EDCs may be related to disease processes.

Aflatoxins in rice: Worldwide occurrence and public health perspectives

Aflatoxins are fungal secondary metabolites that contaminate dietary staples worldwide, including maize, rice and groundnuts. Dietary exposure to aflatoxins is a public health concern due to their carcinogenic, acute and chronic effects. Rice is an important staple food consumed widely and consists of a major part of the diets for half of the world population. Human exposure to these mycotoxins is a serious problem especially in developing countries where hot and humid climates favor the fungal growth and where food storage conditions are poor and lack of regulatory limits enforcement. The recent developments of biomarkers have provided opportunities in assessing aflatoxins exposure and related health effects in the high-risk population groups. This review describes the worldwide occurrence of aflatoxins in rice during the period from 1990 to 2015 and biomarkers-based evidence for human exposure to aflatoxins and their adverse health effects. Aflatoxin is a potent hepatocarcinogen and humans may expose to it at any stage of life. Epidemiological studies reported an association between aflatoxin intake and the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma in some sub-Saharan and Asian countries. Even daily high intake of rice with a low level of contamination is of health concern. Thus, it is necessary to implement effective strategies to prevent contamination and fungal growth in rice. A good agricultural and manufacturing practice should be applied during handling, storage and distribution of rice to ensure that aflatoxins contamination level is lower in the final product. Moreover, a regular survey for aflatoxins occurrence in rice and biomarkers-based studies is recommended to prevent and reduce the adverse health effects in the world population.

Dietary Supplementation with sodium bentonite and coumarin alleviates the toxicity of aflatoxin B1 in rabbits

Eighty-four male New Zealand White rabbits with average body weight 778 ± 65 g were blocked into four groups to evaluate the ability of sodium bentonite and coumarin in alleviating the toxicity of aflatoxin B1. The first group was fed on a diet without any treatment (CON), while the remaining three diets were added with aflatoxin B1 at 0.25 ppm diet. Diet fed to the third and fourth group of rabbits were further supplemented with sodium bentonite at 5 g/kg (SOB) and coumarin at 5 g/kg (COU) of the diet, respectively. Feeding aflatoxin-contaminated diet (AFL) caused necrosis of liver tissue and reduced the weight gain, average daily gain, feed conversion ratio, nutrient digestibility coefficients, and nitrogen balance of rabbits. This, in turn, was reflected as a reduction in carcass characteristics. The serum collected from rabbits fed aflatoxin-contaminated diet showed decreased levels of total protein, albumin, globulin, glucose, total cholesterol, and triglycerides, and increased concentrations of urea, creatinine, and liver enzymes. Further, aflatoxin diet increased the cecal pH, and decreased the ammonia nitrogen, total volatile fatty acids, and individual fatty acids proportion of cecal fluid. Supplementing sodium bentonite and coumarin at 5 g/kg diet reduced the negative effects of aflatoxin B1 on growth performance, digestibility of nutrients, biochemical parameters, carcass characteristics, and cecal fermentation profile. Furthermore, the coumarin-supplemented group showed better body weight gains and carcass weights compared to the rabbits fed with diets containing sodium bentonite. In conclusion, both sodium bentonite and coumarin supplementation was beneficial in ameliorating the toxicity of aflatoxin B1. Further, the increased body weight gains and better-feed conversion in coumarin-supplemented rabbits project the coumarin as a better anti-aflatoxigenic supplement.

HBx combined with AFB1 triggers hepatic steatosis via COX-2-mediated necrosome formation and mitochondrial dynamics disorder

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) exposure have been recognized as independent risk factors for the occurrence and exacerbation of hepatic steatosis but their combined impacts and the potential mechanisms remain to be further elucidated. Here, we showed that exposure to AFB1 impaired mitochondrial dynamics and increased intracellular lipid droplets (LDs) in the liver of HBV-transgenic mice in vivo and the hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx)-expressing human hepatocytes both ex vivo and in vitro. HBx combined with AFB1 exposure also up-regulated receptor interaction protein 1 (RIP1), receptor interaction protein 3 (RIP3) and activated mixed lineage kinase domain like protein (MLKL), providing evidence of necrosome formation in the hepatocytes. The shift of the mitochondrial dynamics towards imbalance of fission and fusion was rescued when MLKL was inhibited in the HBx and AFB1 co-treated hepatocytes. Most importantly, based on siRNA or CRISPR/Cas9 system, we found that the combination of HBx and AFB1 exposure increased cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) to mediate up-regulation of RIP3 and dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1), which in turn promoted location of RIP3-MLKL necrosome on mitochondria, subsequently exacerbated steatosis in hepatocytes. Taken together, these findings advance the understanding of mechanism associated with HBx and AFB1-induced hepatic necrosome formation, mitochondrial dysfunction and steatosis and make COX-2 a good candidate for treatment.