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El-Dawy EGAM, Gherbawy YA, Hussein MA. Characterization of Aspergillus section Flavi associated with stored grains. Mycotoxin Res 2024; 40:187-202. [PMID: 38231446 PMCID: PMC10834605 DOI: 10.1007/s12550-023-00514-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Increased frequencies of Aspergillus section Flavi and aflatoxins in cereal grains have been seen in recent years due to changes in climate circumstances, such as high temperatures and drought. To assess the microbiological risks of contamination, it is critical to have a reliable and accurate means of identifying the fungi. The main goal of this study was to characterize Aspergillus species from section Flavi obtained from twenty-three samples of barley and maize grains, gathered from different markets in Qena, Egypt, using morphological and molecular techniques. Twenty-three isolates were chosen, one isolate from each sample; they were identified as A. aflatoxiformans (4 isolates), A. flavus (18), and A. parasiticus (1). The existence of four aflatoxin biosynthesis genes was also investigated in relation to the strains' ability to produce total aflatoxins and aflatoxin B1, focusing on the regulatory gene aflR and the structural genes aflD and aflM. All strains producing aflatoxins were linked to the presence of aflR1 and/or aflR2, except two isolates that exhibited aflatoxins but from which aflR1 or aflR2 were not detected, which may be due to one or more missing or unstudied additional genes involved in aflatoxin production. AflD and aflM genes were amplified by 10 and 9 isolates, respectively. Five samples of barley and maize were contaminated by aflatoxins. Fifteen isolates were positive for producing total aflatoxins in the range of 0.1-240 ppm. Antagonistic activity of Trichoderma viride against A. flavus (F5) was assessed at 31.3%. Trichoderma reduced total aflatoxins in all treated seeds, particularly those subjected to Trichoderma formulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman G A M El-Dawy
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt.
- Applied and Environmental Microbiology Center, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt.
| | - Youssuf A Gherbawy
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
- Applied and Environmental Microbiology Center, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Hussein
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
- Applied and Environmental Microbiology Center, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
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2
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Zhang W, Forester NT, Chettri P, Heilijgers M, Mace WJ, Maes E, Morozova Y, Applegate ER, Johnson RD, Johnson LJ. Characterization of the Biosynthetic Gene Cluster for the Ribosomally Synthesized Cyclic Peptide Epichloëcyclins in Epichloë festucae. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023; 71:13965-13978. [PMID: 37704203 PMCID: PMC10540207 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c03073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
The various grass-induced epichloëcyclins of the Epichloë spp. are ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs), produced as small, secreted cyclopeptides from a single gene, gigA. Here, four clustered and coregulated genes (gigA, gigB, gigC, and kexB) with predicted roles in epichloëcyclin production in Epichloë festucae were evaluated through gene disruption. Subsequent chemical analysis indicates that GigB is a DUF3328 domain-containing protein associated with cyclization of epichloëcyclins; GigC is a methyltransferase enzyme responsible for N-methylation of desmethylepichloëcyclins; and KexB is a subtilisin-like enzyme, partly responsible for the propeptide cleavage of epichloëcyclin intermediates. Symbiotic effects on the host phenotype were not observed for gigA, gigC, or kexB mutants, although ΔgigB infection correlated with increased host tiller height and biomass, while only ΔkexB exhibited an effect on endophyte morphology. Disrupting epichloëcyclin biosynthesis showed negligible influence on the biosynthesis of E. festucae-associated alkaloids. Epichloëcyclins may perform other secondary metabolism functions in Epichloë and other fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Grasslands
Research Centre, AgResearch Limited, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Natasha T. Forester
- Grasslands
Research Centre, AgResearch Limited, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Pranav Chettri
- Grasslands
Research Centre, AgResearch Limited, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Maurice Heilijgers
- Grasslands
Research Centre, AgResearch Limited, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Wade J. Mace
- Grasslands
Research Centre, AgResearch Limited, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Evelyne Maes
- Lincoln
Research Centre, AgResearch Limited, Lincoln 7608, New Zealand
| | - Yulia Morozova
- Grasslands
Research Centre, AgResearch Limited, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Emma R. Applegate
- Grasslands
Research Centre, AgResearch Limited, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Richard D. Johnson
- Grasslands
Research Centre, AgResearch Limited, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Linda J. Johnson
- Grasslands
Research Centre, AgResearch Limited, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
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Ferreira AM, da Silva Sena I, Curti J, de Souza AA, Dos Santos Lima PC, Rodrigues ABL, da Silva Ramos R, de Souza Pinheiro WB, Ferreira IM, Carvalho JCT. Trichoderma asperellum Extract Isolated from Brazil Nuts ( Bertholletia excelsa BONPL): In Vivo and In Silico Studies on Melanogenesis in Zebrafish. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11041089. [PMID: 37110512 PMCID: PMC10146319 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11041089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Endophytic fungi are those that present part of their life cycle in healthy tissues of different plant hosts in symbiosis without causing harm. At the same time, fungus-plant symbiosis makes it possible for microorganisms to synthesize their own bioactive secondary metabolites while in the stationary stage. To accomplish this, the endophytic fungus Trichoderma asperellum was isolated from Bertholletia excelsa (Brazil nut) almonds. The fungus was cultivated and extracted with ethyl acetate, obtaining AM07Ac. Then, using HPTLC (High-performance thin-layer chromatography) and nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), β-amyrin, kaempferol, and brucine were identified as major compounds. Further in vivo assays in zebrafish demonstrated the activity of AM07Ac on melanogenesis by producing a concentration-response inhibitory effect, which, through an in silico study, proved to be related to the noted major compounds known to inhibit tyrosinase activity. The inhibition of tyrosinase prevents melanin accumulation in skin. Therefore, these results imply the importance of investigating microorganisms and their pharmacological activities, in particular the endophytic fungus Trichoderma asperellum as a generator of active metabolites for melanogenesis modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Maciel Ferreira
- Research Laboratory of Drugs, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Rod. JK, km 02, Macapá 68902-280, Brazil
| | - Iracirema da Silva Sena
- Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Applied Organic Synthesis, Department of Exact Sciences, Chemistry Course, Federal University of Amapá, Rod. JK, km 02, Macapá 68902-280, Brazil
| | - Jhone Curti
- Research Laboratory of Drugs, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Rod. JK, km 02, Macapá 68902-280, Brazil
| | - Agerdânio Andrade de Souza
- Research Laboratory of Drugs, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Rod. JK, km 02, Macapá 68902-280, Brazil
| | - Paulo Cesar Dos Santos Lima
- Research Laboratory of Drugs, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Rod. JK, km 02, Macapá 68902-280, Brazil
| | - Alex Bruno Lobato Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Applied Organic Synthesis, Department of Exact Sciences, Chemistry Course, Federal University of Amapá, Rod. JK, km 02, Macapá 68902-280, Brazil
| | - Ryan da Silva Ramos
- Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Applied Organic Synthesis, Department of Exact Sciences, Chemistry Course, Federal University of Amapá, Rod. JK, km 02, Macapá 68902-280, Brazil
| | - Wandson Braamcamp de Souza Pinheiro
- Central Extraction Laboratory, Graduate Program in Chemistry, Federal University of Pará, R. Augusto Corrêa, Guamá, 01, Belém 66075-110, Brazil
| | - Irlon Maciel Ferreira
- Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Applied Organic Synthesis, Department of Exact Sciences, Chemistry Course, Federal University of Amapá, Rod. JK, km 02, Macapá 68902-280, Brazil
| | - José Carlos Tavares Carvalho
- Research Laboratory of Drugs, Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Rod. JK, km 02, Macapá 68902-280, Brazil
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Hleba L, Hlebova M, Kovacik A, Petrova J, Maskova Z, Cubon J, Massanyi P. Use of MALDI-TOF MS to Discriminate between Aflatoxin B1-Producing and Non-Producing Strains of Aspergillus flavus. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27227861. [PMID: 36431961 PMCID: PMC9692738 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27227861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is one of the most toxic mycotoxins. One of the producers of AFB1 is Aspergillus flavus. Therefore, its rapid identification plays a key role in various sectors of the food and feed industry. MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry is one of the fastest and most accurate methods today. Therefore, the aim of this research was to develop the rapid identification of producing and non-producing strains of A. flavus based on the entire mass spectrum. To accomplish the main goal a different confirmatory MALDI-TOF MS and TLC procedures such as direct AFB1 identification by scraping from TLC plates, A. flavus mycelium, nutrient media around A. flavus growth, and finally direct AFB1 identification from infected wheat and barley grains had to be conducted. In this experiment, MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry with various modifications was the main supporting technology. All confirmatory methods confirmed the presence of AFB1 in the samples of aflatoxin-producing strains of A. flavus and vice versa; AFB1 was not detected in the case of non-producing strains. Entire mass spectra (from 2 to 20 kDa) of aflatoxin-producing and non-producing A. flavus strains were collected, statistically analyzed and clustered. An in-depth analysis of the obtained entire mass spectra showed differences between AFB1-producing and non-producing strains of A. flavus. Statistical and cluster analysis divided AFB1-producing and non-producing strains of A. flavus into two monasteries. The results indicate that it is possible to distinguish between AFB1 producers and non-producers by comparing the entire mass spectra using MALDI-TOF MS. Finally, we demonstrated that if there are established local AFB1-producing and non-producing strains of A. flavus, the entire mass spectrum database identification of aflatoxigenic A. flavus strains can be even faster and cheaper, without the need to identify the toxin itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Hleba
- Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Institute of Biotechnology, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. Andreja Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
- Correspondence:
| | - Miroslava Hlebova
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Ss. Cyril and Methodius, Nám. J. Herdu 2, 917 01 Trnava, Slovakia
| | - Anton Kovacik
- Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Institute of Applied Biology, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. Andreja Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Jana Petrova
- Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Institute of Biotechnology, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. Andreja Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Zuzana Maskova
- Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Institute of Biotechnology, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. Andreja Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Juraj Cubon
- Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Institute of Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. Andreja Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Peter Massanyi
- Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Institute of Applied Biology, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. Andreja Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
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Barakat S, Swaileh KM. Fungal contamination, aflatoxigenic fungi and levels of aflatoxin B1 in spices marketed in the West Bank of Palestine. FOOD ADDITIVES & CONTAMINANTS. PART B, SURVEILLANCE 2022; 15:245-253. [PMID: 35668559 DOI: 10.1080/19393210.2022.2085330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Ninety-seven spices of seven different types were collected from different retailers in the West Bank of Palestine and were analysed for fungal contamination, specifically aflatoxigenic Aspergillus spp. and Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) levels. Aspergillus was found in 89% samples analysed. Ground red chilli had the highest average number of fungal colonies. In decreasing order, mixed spices (57%), cardamom (53%), red chilli (52%), chicken spices (50%), sumac (47%) and pepper (38%), were contaminated with Aspergillus species. Aspergillus niger and A. flavus were dominating Aspergillus species in 37% and 23% of food samples analysed, respectively. Of the 11 tested isolates, 82% were identified as aflatoxin-producers. AFB1 was detected in 40.2% of the samples analysed with a mean value of 2.09 ± 3.20 μg/kg. Red chilli powder followed by chicken spices and cardamom recorded the highest levels (6.98, 3.55 and 1.48 μg/kg, respectively). Twenty-two of the spices (23%), were above the European Union's maximum limit of 5 μg/kg.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Barakat
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, Birzeit University, Birzeit, West Bank-Palestine
| | - K M Swaileh
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, Birzeit University, Birzeit, West Bank-Palestine
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Fouad MT, El-Desouky TA. Anti-Toxigenic Effect of Lactic Acid Bacteria Against Aspergillus spp Isolated from Wheat Grains. Open Microbiol J 2020. [DOI: 10.2174/1874434602014010252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction:
Many fungi infect the wheat grains. Under field and or storage conditions from temperature and humidity, some fungi can produce aflatoxins (AFs), which may cause acute or chronic diseases. Therefore, there is a necessary and urgent need to find an effective and safe way to reduce or remove AFs.
Objective:
The objective of this study was the evaluation of Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus gasseri, and Lactobacillus plantarum for their ability to reduce and or remove AFs produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, which were isolated from wheat grains, as well as control of AFs produced on affected wheat grain by A.parasiticus spores only.
Methods:
LAB, isolated from some local dairy products, were cultured in MRS for the evaluation of their ability to remove AFs, produced by A. flavus and A. parasiticus on (YES) media, in addition to the treatment of wheat grains by LAB cells to prevent AFs produced by A. parasiticus.
Results:
The L. rhamnosus strain gave the highest reduction rates of AFs produced by A. parasiticus that were 62.6, 44.4, 43.3, and 52.2% for AFG1, AFB1, AFG2, and AFB2, respectively. While in the case of A. flavus, the reduction was 50.4, 42.7, 40.6, and 36.8% in the same order of toxins. When applied, these strains with wheat grains were affected by A. parasiticus, the inhibition rates of AFs were ranged between 61.4 and 75.8% with L. rhamnosus strain and 43.7 to 52.1% with L. gasseri, while L. plantarum strain ranged from 55.5 to 66.9%.
Conclusion:
According to this study, L. rhamnosus is considered one of the best strains in this field. Therefore, the present study suggests applied use of LAB as a treatment to prevent AFs production in wheat grains.
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Chadeganipour M, Mohammadi R. A 9-Year Experience of Aspergillus Infections from Isfahan, Iran. Infect Drug Resist 2020; 13:2301-2309. [PMID: 32765006 PMCID: PMC7368557 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s259162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Aspergillosis is an important fungal disease affecting millions of individuals worldwide. The genus of Aspergillus consist of various complexes, causing a wide spectrum of diseases from superficial infections in immunocompetent hosts to life-threatening disseminated infections among immunocompromised patients. This study aimed to identify Aspergillus species by phenotypic (total isolates) and molecular tests (35 isolates), obtained from patients in Isfahan (the third-largest city of Iran) between 2010 and 2018, and determine the susceptibility of 35 clinical isolates to itraconazole (ITR), amphotericin-B (AMB), and voriconazole (VOR). Patients and Methods Based on clinical signs, a total of 2385 suspected cases were included in this retrospective study from January 2010 to December 2018. Direct microscopic examination with potassium hydroxide, sabouraud dextrose agar with chloramphenicol, and czapekdox agar media was applied to identify etiologic agents. Thirty-five Aspergillus species collected from January 2016 to December 2018 were identified by PCR-sequencing of ITS1-5.8SrDNA-ITS2 region, and their susceptibility to ITR, AMB, and VOR was determined using E-test. Results Based on direct microscopy and positive culture, 132 out of 2385 suspected cases had Aspergillus infection (5.5%). Fifty-four patients were male, and 78 patients were female. Patients in the age groups of 41–50 and 21–30 years had the highest and lowest frequencies, respectively. Aspergillus flavus/oryzae (n=54), A. fumigatus (n=24), A. niger (n=15), and A. terreus (n=12) were the most prevalent Aspergillus species, respectively. Among 35 Aspergillus species, the MIC ranges of AMB, ITR, and VOR for A. flavus/oryzae, A. niger, and A. terreus were (0.5–4 μg/mL; 0.5–16 μg/mL; 0.25–8 μg/mL), (1 μg/mL, 1 μg/mL, 1 μg/mL), and (4–4 μg/mL, 0.5–1 μg/mL, 0.5–1 μg/mL), respectively. Conclusion Aspergillus infections have a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations and often occur in immunocompromised patients. Accurate identification at the species level is essential since the emergence of cryptic species is connected to different patterns of AFST that affect patient treatment outcomes. Azole-resistant Aspergillus spp. is a global concern, and the detection of the route of resistance is pivotal to prevent and control infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Chadeganipour
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Rasoul Mohammadi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.,Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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Li J, Wang J, Fan J, Huang G, Yan L. Binding characteristics of aflatoxin B 1 with free DNA in vitro. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2020; 230:118054. [PMID: 32006841 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2020.118054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
In this paper, the binding characteristics of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) with the herring sperm deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) in vitro were investigated through different analytical methods. The ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis), fluorescence, and circular dichroism (CD) spectra results showed that a new AFB1-DNA complex was formed. All the results suggested that AFB1 interacted with free DNA in vitro in an intercalating binding mode. The results of the DNA melting experiments also showed that the melting temperature of DNA increased by about 12.1 °C due to the addition of AFB1, which was supposed to be closely related to the intercalation of AFB1 into DNA. The agar gel electrophoresis experiments further confirmed that the binding mode of AFB1 and free DNA in vitro was indeed intercalation. In addition, the fluorescence quenching induced by adding AFB1 to the ethidium bromide-DNA (EB-DNA) mixture indicated the presence of competitive non-covalent intercalating binding interaction with a competitive binding constant of 5.58 L/mol between AFB1, EB, and DNA. The thermodynamic data demonstrated that the main driving forces of the binding reaction were van der Waals forces and hydrogen bond. The resonance light scattering (RLS) assay results showed that the DNA binding saturation values of AFB1, EB, psoralen (PSO), and angelicin (ANG) were 2.14, 15.59, 0.74, and 0.74, respectively. These results indicated that the DNA binding capacity of AFB1 was weaker than that of EB, but stronger than those of PSO and ANG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junsheng Li
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Green Processing of Sugar Resources, Guangxi University of Science and Technology, Donghuan Road 268, Liuzhou 545006, Guangxi, PR China.
| | - Jingting Wang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Green Processing of Sugar Resources, Guangxi University of Science and Technology, Donghuan Road 268, Liuzhou 545006, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Junfu Fan
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Green Processing of Sugar Resources, Guangxi University of Science and Technology, Donghuan Road 268, Liuzhou 545006, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Guoxia Huang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Green Processing of Sugar Resources, Guangxi University of Science and Technology, Donghuan Road 268, Liuzhou 545006, Guangxi, PR China
| | - Liujuan Yan
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Green Processing of Sugar Resources, Guangxi University of Science and Technology, Donghuan Road 268, Liuzhou 545006, Guangxi, PR China
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Omara T, Nassazi W, Omute T, Awath A, Laker F, Kalukusu R, Musau B, Nakabuye BV, Kagoya S, Otim G, Adupa E. Aflatoxins in Uganda: An Encyclopedic Review of the Etiology, Epidemiology, Detection, Quantification, Exposure Assessment, Reduction, and Control. Int J Microbiol 2020; 2020:4723612. [PMID: 31998379 PMCID: PMC6970494 DOI: 10.1155/2020/4723612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Uganda is an agrarian country where farming employs more than 60% of the population. Aflatoxins remain a scourge in the country, unprecedentedly reducing the nutritional and economic value of agricultural foods. This review was sought to synthetize the country's major findings in relation to the mycotoxins' etiology, epidemiology, detection, quantification, exposure assessment, control, and reduction in different matrices. Electronic results indicate that aflatoxins in Uganda are produced by Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus and have been reported in maize, sorghum, sesame, beans, sunflower, millet, peanuts, and cassava. The causes and proliferation of aflatoxigenic contamination of Ugandan foods have been largely due to poor pre-, peri-, and postharvest activities, poor government legislation, lack of awareness, and low levels of education among farmers, entrepreneurs, and consumers on this plague. Little diet diversity has exacerbated the risk of exposure to aflatoxins in Uganda because most of the staple foods are aflatoxin-prone. On the detection and control, these are still marginal, though some devoted scholars have devised and validated a sensitive portable device for on-site aflatoxin detection in maize and shown that starter cultures used for making some cereal-based beverages have the potential to bind aflatoxins. More efforts should be geared towards awareness creation and vaccination against hepatitis B and hepatitis A to reduce the risk of development of liver cancer among the populace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Omara
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, School of Biological and Physical Sciences, Moi University, Uasin Gishu County, Kesses, P.O. Box 3900-30100, Academic Highway, Eldoret, Kenya
- Department of Quality Control and Quality Assurance, Product Development Directory, AgroWays Uganda Limited, Plot 34-60 Kyabazinga Way, P.O. Box 1924, Jinja, Uganda
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Kyambogo University, P.O. Box 1, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Winfred Nassazi
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, School of Biological and Physical Sciences, Moi University, Uasin Gishu County, Kesses, P.O. Box 3900-30100, Academic Highway, Eldoret, Kenya
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Kyambogo University, P.O. Box 1, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Tom Omute
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Lira University, P.O. Box 1035, Lira, Uganda
| | - Aburu Awath
- Standards Department, Uganda National Bureau of Standards, Plot 2-12 Bypass Link, Bweyogerere Industrial and Business Park, P.O. Box 6329, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Fortunate Laker
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Kyambogo University, P.O. Box 1, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Quality Control and Quality Assurance, Leading Distillers Uganda Limited, Plot 3382/83, Buloba, P.O. Box 12369, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Raymond Kalukusu
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Kyambogo University, P.O. Box 1, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Quality Control and Quality Assurance, Leading Distillers Uganda Limited, Plot 3382/83, Buloba, P.O. Box 12369, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Bashir Musau
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Kyambogo University, P.O. Box 1, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Quality Control and Quality Assurance, Leading Distillers Uganda Limited, Plot 3382/83, Buloba, P.O. Box 12369, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Brenda Victoria Nakabuye
- Department of Quality Control and Quality Assurance, Leading Distillers Uganda Limited, Plot 3382/83, Buloba, P.O. Box 12369, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Food Processing Technology, Faculty of Science, Kyambogo University, P.O. Box 1, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Sarah Kagoya
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Kyambogo University, P.O. Box 1, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Quality Control and Quality Assurance, Product Development Directory, Sweets and Confectionaries Section, Kakira Sugar Limited, Jinja-Iganga Highway, P.O. Box 121, Jinja, Uganda
| | - George Otim
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Kyambogo University, P.O. Box 1, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Eddie Adupa
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Kyambogo University, P.O. Box 1, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Quality Control and Quality Assurance, Abacus Parenteral Drugs Limited, Block 191, Plot 114, Kinga, Mukono, P.O. Box 31376, Kampala, Uganda
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Akinola SA, Ateba CN, Mwanza M. Polyphasic Assessment of Aflatoxin Production Potential in Selected Aspergilli. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:E692. [PMID: 31779084 PMCID: PMC6950480 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11120692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 11/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the aflatoxin production potentials of selected fungi using a polyphasic approach. Internally transcribed spacer region of the fungi was amplified using the polymerase chain reaction. Forty-five Aspergillus strains were further assessed for aflatoxin production using the conventional methods such as growth on yeast extract sucrose, β-cyclodextrin neutral red desiccated coconut agar (β-CNRDCA); expression of the aflatoxin regulatory genes and the use of both thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). A large proportion (82.22%) of the isolates harbored the Nor-1 gene while 55.56%, 68.89%, and 80% possessed the ver-1, omt-A, and aflR genes, respectively. All 100% the isolates harbored the aflJ gene. Twenty-three isolates were positive for aflatoxin production based on the yeast extract sucrose medium (YES) test; ammonium vapor test (51%), yellow pigment production (75.5%), and β-CNRDCA tests; and blue/green fluorescence (57.7%). Based on TLC detection 42.2% produced aflatoxins while in the HPLC, total aflatoxin (AFTOT) production concentrations ranged from 6.77-71,453 µg/g. Detectable aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) concentrations obtained from the HPLC ranged between 3.76 and 70,288 µg/g; 6.77 and 242.50 µg/g for aflatoxin B2 (AFB2); 1.87 and 745.30 µg/g for aflatoxin G1 (AFG1); and 1.67 and 768.52 µg/g for aflatoxin G2 (AFG2). AFTOT contamination levels were higher than European Union tolerable limits (4 µg/kg). The regression coefficient was one (R2 = 1) while significant differences exist in the aflatoxin concentrations of Aspergillus (p ≤ 0.05). This study reports the potentials of Aspergillus oryzae previously known as a non-aflatoxin producer to produce AFG1, AFG2, AFB1, and AFB2 toxins. Aspergillus species in feedlots of animals reared for food are capable of producing aflatoxins which could pose hazards to health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Abiola Akinola
- Bacteriophage Therapy and Phage Bio-control Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X2046, Mmabatho 2745, South Africa; (S.A.A.); (C.N.A.)
| | - Collins Njie Ateba
- Bacteriophage Therapy and Phage Bio-control Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X2046, Mmabatho 2745, South Africa; (S.A.A.); (C.N.A.)
| | - Mulunda Mwanza
- Center for Animal Health Studies, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X2046, Mmabatho 2745, South Africa
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11
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Rasheed U, Wu H, Wei J, Ou X, Qin P, Yao X, Chen H, Chen AJ, Liu B. A polyphasic study of Aspergillus section Flavi isolated from corn in Guangxi, China- a hot spot of aflatoxin contamination. Int J Food Microbiol 2019; 310:108307. [PMID: 31476582 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2019.108307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Aspergillus section Flavi is widely known as a potential threat to contaminate agricultural products and food commodities. In this study, a polyphasic approach consisting of micro- and macro-morphological, chemical and molecular features, was applied to survey the Aspergillus section Flavi population in corn collected from Guangxi, China. Based on multigene phylogenies as well as morphological observations, Aspergillus flavus (192/195), A. arachidicola (1/195), A. pseudonomius (1/195) and A. novoparasiticus (1/195) were found to be the predominant section Flavi population. Among them, 31 representative isolates were selected for mycotoxin determination. The results showed that Aspergillus flavus chemotype I was most common, chemotype IV was also detected with low incidence and low CPA amounts, while chemotypes II and III were absent. Other tested species including A. arachidicola, A. pseudonomius, and A. novoparasiticus produced all types of aflatoxins, but none of them produced CPA. The polyphasic approach applied in this study permitted reliable understanding of the prevailing Aspergillus section Flavi population and their mycotoxin profiles. Knowledge of the prevailing section Flavi population will aid in developing a sustainable strategy to mitigate the effects of aflatoxin contamination. This study suggests that CPA contamination of food should be considered while conducting mycotoxigenic surveys of food commodities, and the same should be considered while planning a bio-control strategy to control aflatoxin contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Usman Rasheed
- Institute of Applied Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning 530005, China
| | - Hao Wu
- Institute of Applied Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning 530005, China
| | - Jinfan Wei
- Institute of Applied Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning 530005, China
| | - Xiaoyun Ou
- Institute of Applied Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning 530005, China
| | - Peisheng Qin
- Institute of Applied Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning 530005, China
| | - Xiaohua Yao
- Institute of Applied Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning 530005, China
| | - Han Chen
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Amanda Juan Chen
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Bin Liu
- Institute of Applied Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning 530005, China.
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12
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Lebar M, Mack B, Carter-Wientjes C, Gilbert M. The aspergillic acid biosynthetic gene cluster predicts neoaspergillic acid production in Aspergillus section Circumdati. WORLD MYCOTOXIN J 2019. [DOI: 10.3920/wmj2018.2397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The fungus Aspergillus flavus is an opportunistic crop pathogen that produces aflatoxins. Aflatoxins are potent carcinogenic and hepatotoxic secondary metabolites that are highly regulated in most countries. A. flavus also produces many other secondary metabolites and harbours more than 50 putative secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters that have yet to be characterised. Bioactive secondary metabolites that augment the ability of the fungus to infect crops are of particular interest. Biosynthetic gene cluster 11 in A. flavus has been recently shown to encode for the biosynthesis of aspergillic acid, a toxic hydroxamic acid-containing pyrazinone compound that can bind iron, resulting in a red-orange pigment known as ferriaspergillin. A decrease in A. flavus pathogenicity and aflatoxin contamination was observed when aspergillic acid biosynthesis was blocked during maize seed infection. In this study, we probe the available genomes of Aspergillus species for biosynthetic gene cluster 11 homologs. We find that all species possessing gene cluster 11 produce aspergillic acid or a closely related isomer. We demonstrate that the Aspergillus section Flavi species harbouring biosynthetic gene cluster 11 produce a mixture of aspergillic acid, hydroxyaspergillic acid, and aspergillic acid analogs differing only in the amino acid precursors. Interestingly, many Aspergillus section Circumdati species, known mainly for their production of the problematic mycotoxin ochratoxin A, also harbour gene cluster 11 homologs, but do not produce aspergillic acid. Instead, these species produce neoaspergillic acid and its hydroxylated analog neohydroxyaspergillic acid, indicating that cluster 11 is responsible for neoaspergillic acid biosynthesis in Aspergillus section Circumdati.
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Affiliation(s)
- M.D. Lebar
- Southern Regional Research Center, USDA-ARS, Food and Feed Safety Research Unit, 1100 Robert E Lee Blvd, New Orleans, 70124 LA, USA
| | - B.M. Mack
- Southern Regional Research Center, USDA-ARS, Food and Feed Safety Research Unit, 1100 Robert E Lee Blvd, New Orleans, 70124 LA, USA
| | - C.H. Carter-Wientjes
- Southern Regional Research Center, USDA-ARS, Food and Feed Safety Research Unit, 1100 Robert E Lee Blvd, New Orleans, 70124 LA, USA
| | - M.K. Gilbert
- Southern Regional Research Center, USDA-ARS, Food and Feed Safety Research Unit, 1100 Robert E Lee Blvd, New Orleans, 70124 LA, USA
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Frisvad J, Hubka V, Ezekiel C, Hong SB, Nováková A, Chen A, Arzanlou M, Larsen T, Sklenář F, Mahakarnchanakul W, Samson R, Houbraken J. Taxonomy of Aspergillus section Flavi and their production of aflatoxins, ochratoxins and other mycotoxins. Stud Mycol 2019; 93:1-63. [PMID: 30108412 PMCID: PMC6080641 DOI: 10.1016/j.simyco.2018.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 270] [Impact Index Per Article: 54.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Aflatoxins and ochratoxins are among the most important mycotoxins of all and producers of both types of mycotoxins are present in Aspergillus section Flavi, albeit never in the same species. Some of the most efficient producers of aflatoxins and ochratoxins have not been described yet. Using a polyphasic approach combining phenotype, physiology, sequence and extrolite data, we describe here eight new species in section Flavi. Phylogenetically, section Flavi is split in eight clades and the section currently contains 33 species. Two species only produce aflatoxin B1 and B2 (A. pseudotamarii and A. togoensis), and 14 species are able to produce aflatoxin B1, B2, G1 and G2: three newly described species A. aflatoxiformans, A. austwickii and A. cerealis in addition to A. arachidicola, A. minisclerotigenes, A. mottae, A. luteovirescens (formerly A. bombycis), A. nomius, A. novoparasiticus, A. parasiticus, A. pseudocaelatus, A. pseudonomius, A. sergii and A. transmontanensis. It is generally accepted that A. flavus is unable to produce type G aflatoxins, but here we report on Korean strains that also produce aflatoxin G1 and G2. One strain of A. bertholletius can produce the immediate aflatoxin precursor 3-O-methylsterigmatocystin, and one strain of Aspergillus sojae and two strains of Aspergillus alliaceus produced versicolorins. Strains of the domesticated forms of A. flavus and A. parasiticus, A. oryzae and A. sojae, respectively, lost their ability to produce aflatoxins, and from the remaining phylogenetically closely related species (belonging to the A. flavus-, A. tamarii-, A. bertholletius- and A. nomius-clades), only A. caelatus, A. subflavus and A. tamarii are unable to produce aflatoxins. With exception of A. togoensis in the A. coremiiformis-clade, all species in the phylogenetically more distant clades (A. alliaceus-, A. coremiiformis-, A. leporis- and A. avenaceus-clade) are unable to produce aflatoxins. Three out of the four species in the A. alliaceus-clade can produce the mycotoxin ochratoxin A: A. alliaceus s. str. and two new species described here as A. neoalliaceus and A. vandermerwei. Eight species produced the mycotoxin tenuazonic acid: A. bertholletius, A. caelatus, A. luteovirescens, A. nomius, A. pseudocaelatus, A. pseudonomius, A. pseudotamarii and A. tamarii while the related mycotoxin cyclopiazonic acid was produced by 13 species: A. aflatoxiformans, A. austwickii, A. bertholletius, A. cerealis, A. flavus, A. minisclerotigenes, A. mottae, A. oryzae, A. pipericola, A. pseudocaelatus, A. pseudotamarii, A. sergii and A. tamarii. Furthermore, A. hancockii produced speradine A, a compound related to cyclopiazonic acid. Selected A. aflatoxiformans, A. austwickii, A. cerealis, A. flavus, A. minisclerotigenes, A. pipericola and A. sergii strains produced small sclerotia containing the mycotoxin aflatrem. Kojic acid has been found in all species in section Flavi, except A. avenaceus and A. coremiiformis. Only six species in the section did not produce any known mycotoxins: A. aspearensis, A. coremiiformis, A. lanosus, A. leporis, A. sojae and A. subflavus. An overview of other small molecule extrolites produced in Aspergillus section Flavi is given.
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Affiliation(s)
- J.C. Frisvad
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, DTU-Bioengineering, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - V. Hubka
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Benátská 2, 128 01 Prague 2, Czech Republic
- Institute of Microbiology of the CAS, v.v.i., Vídeňská 1083, 142 20 Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - C.N. Ezekiel
- Department of Microbiology, Babcock University, Ilishan Rémo, Nigeria
| | - S.-B. Hong
- Korean Agricultural Culture Collection, National Academy of Agricultural Science, RDA, Suwon, South Korea
| | - A. Nováková
- Institute of Microbiology of the CAS, v.v.i., Vídeňská 1083, 142 20 Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - A.J. Chen
- Institute of Medical Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, PR China
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Uppsalalaan 8, 3584 CT Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - M. Arzanlou
- Department of Plant Protection, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - T.O. Larsen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, DTU-Bioengineering, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - F. Sklenář
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Benátská 2, 128 01 Prague 2, Czech Republic
- Institute of Microbiology of the CAS, v.v.i., Vídeňská 1083, 142 20 Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - W. Mahakarnchanakul
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Agro-Industry, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
| | - R.A. Samson
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Uppsalalaan 8, 3584 CT Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - J. Houbraken
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Uppsalalaan 8, 3584 CT Utrecht, the Netherlands
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14
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Chen Y, Kong Q, Liang Y. Three newly identified peptides from Bacillus megaterium strongly inhibit the growth and aflatoxin B1 production of Aspergillus flavus. Food Control 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2018.07.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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15
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Mgbeahuruike AC, Ejioffor TE, Christian OC, Shoyinka VC, Karlsson M, Nordkvist E. Detoxification of Aflatoxin-Contaminated Poultry Feeds by 3 Adsorbents, Bentonite, Activated Charcoal, and Fuller’s Earth. J APPL POULTRY RES 2018. [DOI: 10.3382/japr/pfy054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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16
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Korley Kortei N, Akomeah Agyekum A, Akuamoa F, Baffour VK, Wiisibie Alidu H. Risk assessment and exposure to levels of naturally occurring aflatoxins in some packaged cereals and cereal based foods consumed in Accra, Ghana. Toxicol Rep 2018; 6:34-41. [PMID: 30560059 PMCID: PMC6289905 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2018.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Revised: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Aflatoxins are toxic secondary metabolites of fungal origin that contaminate agricultural commodities before, during and after harvest periods. A total of fifty-three (53) different foods (27 rice brands, 20 cereal based food brands and 6 pasta brands) were randomly obtained from the market and assessed for their different aflatoxin constitution (AFB1, AFB2, AFG1 and AFG2) as well as the total levels of the aflatoxins using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) method. For the rice grain category, RS4 recorded the highest aflatoxin quantities of 65.77, 19.27, 1.02 μg/kg for AFB1, AFB2, AFG1 respectively and a total of 86.06 μg/kg which significantly differed (p < 0.05) from the other brands of foods. For the cereal based food category, CBS11 recorded the greatest quantities of 35.46, 4.92, 3.39 and 0.32 μg/kg for AFB1, AFB2, AFG1 and AFG2 respectively and a total of 45.1 μg/kg. For the pasta category, PS1 recorded the greatest quantities of 0.94 and 0.85 μg/kg for AFB1 and AFB2 respectively. Total aflatoxin quantities detected in some foods were above the acceptable limits set by the European Union which makes them unsafe and dangerous for human consumption. Recorded Estimated Daily Intakes (EDI) and Hazard Indices (HI) values were in the range of 3.9 × 10-3 - 0.899 and 3.9 × 10-4 - 0.0899 respectively. The risk was low since HI values obtained were less than 1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nii Korley Kortei
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, PMB 31, Ho, Ghana
| | - Akwasi Akomeah Agyekum
- Applied Radiation Biology Centre, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, P. O. Box AE 1, Atomic, Accra, Ghana
| | - Felicia Akuamoa
- Applied Radiation Biology Centre, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, P. O. Box AE 1, Atomic, Accra, Ghana
| | - Vincent Kyei Baffour
- Toxicology Unit, Department of Chemistry, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research- Food Research Institute, P.O. Box M20, Accra, Ghana
| | - Huseini Wiisibie Alidu
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, PMB 31, Ho, Ghana
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17
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Díaz-Zaragoza M, Carvajal-Moreno M, Méndez-Ramírez I, Chilpa-Galván N, Ávila-González E, Flores-Ortiz C. Aflatoxins, hydroxylated metabolites, and aflatoxicol from breast muscle of laying hens. Poult Sci 2014; 93:3152-62. [DOI: 10.3382/ps.2014-04240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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18
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Klich MA, Cary JW, Beltz SB, Bennett CA. Phylogenetic and morphological analysis of Aspergillus ochraceoroseus. Mycologia 2012; 95:1252-60. [PMID: 21149026 DOI: 10.1080/15572536.2004.11833033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Aspergillus ochraceoroseus produces the yellow-gold conidia and other characteristics of Aspergillus subgenus Circumdati section Circumdati. However, this species produces aflatoxin, a secondary metabolite characteristic of some members of subgenus Circumdati section Flavi and sterigmatocystin, a related secondary metabolite usually associated with subgenus Nidulantes sections Nidulantes and Versicolores, as well as members of several other genera. Our morphological data support the placement of A. ochraceoroseus in subgenus Circumdati. Sequence data from A. ochraceoroseus aflatoxin and sterigmatocystin genes aflR and nor-1/stcE, as well as 5.8S ITS and beta tubulin genes, were compared to those of aspergilli in sections Circumdati, Flavi, Nidulantes and Versicolores. In the sequence comparisons, A. ochraceoroseus was related more closely to the species in subgenus Nidulantes than to species from subgenus Circumdati.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Klich
- U.S.D.A., A.R.S., Southern Regional Research Center, 1100 Robert E. Lee Blvd., New Orleans, Louisiana 70124
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19
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Jurjevic Z, Peterson SW, Horn BW. Aspergillus section Versicolores: nine new species and multilocus DNA sequence based phylogeny. IMA Fungus 2012; 3:59-79. [PMID: 23155501 PMCID: PMC3399103 DOI: 10.5598/imafungus.2012.03.01.07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2012] [Accepted: 06/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
β-tubulin, calmodulin, internal transcribed spacer and partial lsu-rDNA, RNA polymerase 2, DNA replication licensing factor Mcm7, and pre-rRNA processing protein Tsr1 were amplified and sequenced from numerous isolates belonging to Aspergillus sect. versicolor. The isolates were analyzed phylogenetically using the concordance model to establish species boundaries. Aspergillus austroafricanus, A. creber, A. cvjetkovicii, A. fructus, A. jensenii, A. puulaauensis, A. subversicolor, A. tennesseensis and A. venenatus are described as new species and A. amoenus, A. protuberus,A. sydowii, A. tabacinus and A. versicolor are accepted as distinct species on the basis of molecular and phenotypic differences. PCR primer pairs used to detect A. versicolor in sick building syndrome studies have a positive reaction for all of the newly described species except A. subversicolor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeljko Jurjevic
- EMSL Analytical, Inc., 200 Route 130 North, Cinnaminson, NJ 08077
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20
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Almeida M, Almeida N, Carvalho K, Gonçalves G, Silva C, Santos E, Garcia J, Vargas E. Co-occurrence of aflatoxins B1, B2, G1and G2, ochratoxin A, zearalenone, deoxynivalenol, and citreoviridin in rice in Brazil. Food Addit Contam Part A Chem Anal Control Expo Risk Assess 2012; 29:694-703. [DOI: 10.1080/19440049.2011.651750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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21
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Sexual reproduction as the cause of heat resistance in the food spoilage fungus Byssochlamys spectabilis (anamorph Paecilomyces variotii). Appl Environ Microbiol 2008; 74:1613-9. [PMID: 18192427 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01761-07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Paecilomyces variotii is a common cosmopolitan species that is able to spoil various food- and feedstuffs and is frequently encountered in heat-treated products. However, isolates from heat-treated products rarely form ascospores. In this study we examined by using molecular techniques and mating tests whether this species can undergo a sexual cycle and form ascospores. The population structure of this species was examined by analyzing the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) and ITS2 and the 5.8S rRNA gene, as well as partial beta-tubulin, actin, and calmodulin gene sequences. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that P. variotii is a highly variable species. Partition homogeneity tests revealed that P. variotii has a recombining population structure. In addition to sequence analyses, mating experiments indicated that P. variotii is able to form ascomata and ascospores in culture in a heterothallic manner. The distribution of MAT1-1 and MAT1-2 genes showed a 1:1 ratio in the progeny of the mating experiments. From the sequence analyses and mating data we conclude that P. variotii is the anamorph of Talaromyces spectabilis and that it has a biallelic heterothallic mating system. Since Paecilomyces sensu stricto anamorphs group within Byssochlamys, a new combination Byssochlamys spectabilis is proposed.
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22
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Balajee SA, Gribskov JL, Hanley E, Nickle D, Marr KA. Aspergillus lentulus sp. nov., a new sibling species of A. fumigatus. EUKARYOTIC CELL 2005; 4:625-32. [PMID: 15755924 PMCID: PMC1087803 DOI: 10.1128/ec.4.3.625-632.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 280] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In a prior study, we identified seven clinical isolates of an Aspergillus sp. that were slow to sporulate in multiple media and demonstrated decreased in vitro susceptibilities to multiple antifungals, including amphotericin B, itraconazole, voriconazole, and caspofungin. These isolates were initially considered to be variants of Aspergillus fumigatus because of differences in mitochondrial cytochrome b sequences and unique randomly amplified polymorphic DNA PCR patterns (S. A. Balajee, M. Weaver, A. Imhof, J. Gribskov, and K. A. Marr, Antimicrob. Agents Chemother. 48: 1197-1203, 2004). The present study was performed to clarify the taxonomic status of these organisms by phylogenetic analyses based on multilocus sequence typing of five genes (the beta-tubulin gene, the rodlet A gene, the salt-responsive gene, the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene, and the internal transcribed spacer regions). Results revealed that four of the seven variant isolates clustered together in a clade very distant from A. fumigatus and distinct from other members of the A. fumigatus group. This new clade, consisting of four members, was monophyletic with strong bootstrap support when the protein-encoding regions were analyzed, indicating a new species status under the phylogenetic species concept. Phenotype studies revealed that the variant isolate has smaller conidial heads with diminutive vesicles compared to A. fumigatus and is not able to survive at 48 degrees C. Our findings suggest the presence of a previously unrecognized, potentially drug-resistant Aspergillus species that we designate A. lentulus.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Arunmozhi Balajee
- Program in Infectious Diseases, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
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23
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Wen Y, Hatabayashi H, Arai H, Kitamoto HK, Yabe K. Function of the cypX and moxY genes in aflatoxin biosynthesis in Aspergillus parasiticus. Appl Environ Microbiol 2005; 71:3192-8. [PMID: 15933021 PMCID: PMC1151844 DOI: 10.1128/aem.71.6.3192-3198.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The pathway oxoaverantin (OAVN) --> averufin (AVR) --> hydroxyversicolorone (HVN) --> versiconal hemiacetal acetate (VHA) is involved in aflatoxin biosynthesis, and the cypX and moxY genes, which are present in the aflatoxin gene cluster, have been previously suggested to be involved in this pathway. To clarify the function of these two genes in more detail, we disrupted the genes in aflatoxigenic Aspergillus parasiticus NRRL 2999. The cypX-deleted mutant lost aflatoxin productivity and accumulated AVR in the mycelia. Although this mutant converted HVN, versicolorone (VONE), VHA, and versiconol acetate (VOAc) to aflatoxins in feeding experiments, it could not produce aflatoxins from either OAVN or AVR. The moxY-deleted mutant also lost aflatoxin productivity, whereas it newly accumulated HVN and VONE. In feeding experiments, this mutant converted either VHA or VOAc to aflatoxins but did not convert OAVN, AVR, HVN, or VONE to aflatoxins. These results demonstrated that cypX encodes AVR monooxygenase, catalyzing the reaction from AVR to HVN, and moxY encodes HVN monooxygenase, catalyzing a Baeyer-Villiger reaction from HVN to VHA as well as from VONE to VOAc. In this work, we devised a simple and rapid method to extract DNA from many fungi for PCR analyses in which cell disruption with a shaker and phenol extraction were combined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wen
- National Food Research Institute, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8642, Japan
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Yu J, Chang PK, Ehrlich KC, Cary JW, Bhatnagar D, Cleveland TE, Payne GA, Linz JE, Woloshuk CP, Bennett JW. Clustered pathway genes in aflatoxin biosynthesis. Appl Environ Microbiol 2004; 70:1253-62. [PMID: 15006741 PMCID: PMC368384 DOI: 10.1128/aem.70.3.1253-1262.2004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 553] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jiujiang Yu
- Southern Regional Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, New Orleans, Louisiana 70124, USA.
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Abstract
Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by microfungi that are capable of causing disease and death in humans and other animals. Because of their pharmacological activity, some mycotoxins or mycotoxin derivatives have found use as antibiotics, growth promotants, and other kinds of drugs; still others have been implicated as chemical warfare agents. This review focuses on the most important ones associated with human and veterinary diseases, including aflatoxin, citrinin, ergot akaloids, fumonisins, ochratoxin A, patulin, trichothecenes, and zearalenone.
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Affiliation(s)
- J W Bennett
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana 70118, USA.
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Koster B, Scott J, Wong B, Malloch D, Straus N. A geographically diverse set of isolates indicates two phylogenetic lineages withinStachybotrys chartarum. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2003. [DOI: 10.1139/b03-056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Stachybotrys chartarum is a black mitosporic fungus capable of dense colonization of cellulose-based building materials such as drywall. The presence of S. chartarum in indoor environments has been reported as linked to a variety of alleged environment-related illnesses including infant acute idiopathic pulmonary hemorrhage, although there continues to be insufficient (especially exposure) data to support such associations. We investigated genetic variation among 52 morphologically and geographically diverse, indoor and outdoor isolates of S. chartarum sensu lato using molecular markers based on β-tubulin, calmodulin, elongation factor-1 alpha, and trichodiene synthase genes, as well as the internal transcribed spacer region of nuclear ribosomal DNA. Gene genealogies proved concordant in dividing all isolates into two strongly supported clades. The majority of the variable sites separating these lineages were fixed within each of these clades, and there was no evidence of recombination between genotypes. The results of this study therefore provide strong support for the recognition of two phylogenetic species within S. chartarum sensu lato, and further demonstrate the limitations of morphological characters in delineating monophyletic taxa among morphologically simple fungi.Key words: Stachybotrys atra, cryptic speciation, calmodulin, elongation factor-1 alpha, trichodiene synthase.
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