1
|
McKeon HP, Schepens MAA, van den Brand AD, de Jong MH, van Gelder MMHJ, Hesselink ML, Sopel MM, Mengelers MJB. Assessment of Mycotoxin Exposure and Associated Risk in Pregnant Dutch Women: The Human Biomonitoring Approach. Toxins (Basel) 2024; 16:278. [PMID: 38922172 PMCID: PMC11209130 DOI: 10.3390/toxins16060278] [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: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by various fungi that can contaminate food crops, which, in turn, may lead to human exposure. Chronic exposure to mycotoxins can cause adverse health effects including reproductive and developmental toxicity. Pregnant women and their foetuses present a vulnerable group for exposure to mycotoxins that can cross the placenta. Human biomonitoring of mycotoxins provides a real-life approach to estimate internal exposure. In this pilot study, 24-h urine samples from 36 pregnant Dutch women were analysed for aflatoxin M1 (AFM1), total deoxynivalenol (DON), de-epoxy-deoxynivalenol (DOM-1), total zearalenone (ZEN), total α-zearalenol (α-ZEL), total β-zearalenol (β-ZEL) and total zearalanone (ZAN), where 'total' refers to mycotoxins and their conjugated forms. Serum samples from these women were analysed for fumonisin B1 (FB1) and ochratoxin A (OTA). All samples were measured using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The most prevalent mycotoxins were total DON, total ZEN and OTA, with a detection frequency of 100%. DOM-1, total α-ZEL and total β-ZEL were detected but to a lesser extent, while AFM1, total ZAN and FB1 were undetected. Median concentrations were 4.75 μg total DON/L, 0.0350 μg DOM-1/L, 0.0413 μg total ZEN/L, 0.0379 μg total α-ZEL/L, 0.0189 μg total β-ZEL/L, and 0.121 μg OTA/L. The calculated median concentration for total ZEN and its metabolites was 0.105 μg/L. Based on two separate risk assessment approaches, total DON exposure in this group was considered to be of low concern. Similarly, exposure to total ZEN and its metabolites in this group was of low concern. For OTA, the risk of non-neoplastic effects was of low concern based on exposure in this group, and the risk of neoplastic effects was of low concern in the majority of participants in this group. The findings of this pilot study confirm the presence of mycotoxins in the urine and serum of pregnant Dutch women, with total DON, total ZEN, and OTA most frequently detected. Exposure to all measured mycotoxins was considered to be of low concern in this group, except for exposure to OTA, which was of low concern for the majority of participants. The study's findings offer valuable insights but should be confirmed using a larger and more diverse sample of the Dutch general population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah P. McKeon
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands (M.J.B.M.)
| | - Marloes A. A. Schepens
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands (M.J.B.M.)
| | - Annick D. van den Brand
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands (M.J.B.M.)
| | - Marjolein H. de Jong
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands (M.J.B.M.)
| | | | - Marijn L. Hesselink
- Department of Paediatrics, Maastricht University Medical Centre (MUMC+), P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands;
- School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Marta M. Sopel
- Wageningen Food Safety Research (WSFR), 6708 WB Wageningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Marcel J. B. Mengelers
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands (M.J.B.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lakatos I, Babarczi B, Molnár Z, Tóth A, Skoda G, Horváth GF, Horváth A, Tóth D, Sükösd F, Szemethy L, Szőke Z. First Results on the Presence of Mycotoxins in the Liver of Pregnant Fallow Deer ( Dama dama) Hinds and Fetuses. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1039. [PMID: 38612278 PMCID: PMC11011066 DOI: 10.3390/ani14071039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Reproductive abnormalities have been observed in fallow deer populations in Hungary. We supposed mycotoxin contamination to be one of the possible causes because multi-mycotoxin contamination is known to be dangerous even at low toxin levels, especially for young animals. We investigated the spatial pattern of mycotoxin occurrences and the relationship between maternal and fetal mycotoxin levels. A total of 72 fallow deer embryos and their mothers were sampled in seven forested regions in Hungary in the 2020/2021 hunting season. We analyzed Aflatoxin (AF), Zearalenone (ZEA), Fumonizin B1 (FB1), DON, and T2-toxin concentrations in maternal and fetal livers by ELISA. AF was present in 70% and 82%, ZEA in 41% and 96%, DON in 90% and 98%, T2-toxin in 96% and 85%, and FB1 in 84% and 3% of hind and fetus livers, respectively. All mycotoxins passed into the fetus, but only Fumonizin B1 rarely passed. The individual variability of mycotoxin levels was extremely high, but the spatial differences were moderate. We could not prove a relation between the maternal and fetal mycotoxin concentrations, but we found an accumulation of ZEA and DON in the fetuses. These results reflect the possible threats of mycotoxins to the population dynamics and reproduction of wild fallow deer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- István Lakatos
- Department of Regional Game Management, Ministry of Agriculture, 1052 Budapest, Hungary;
- Agribiotechnology and Precision Breeding for Food Security National Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Biotechnology, Department of Animal Biotechnology, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, 2100 Gödöllő, Hungary; (B.B.); (Z.M.); (A.T.); (G.S.); (Z.S.)
| | - Bianka Babarczi
- Agribiotechnology and Precision Breeding for Food Security National Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Biotechnology, Department of Animal Biotechnology, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, 2100 Gödöllő, Hungary; (B.B.); (Z.M.); (A.T.); (G.S.); (Z.S.)
| | - Zsófia Molnár
- Agribiotechnology and Precision Breeding for Food Security National Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Biotechnology, Department of Animal Biotechnology, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, 2100 Gödöllő, Hungary; (B.B.); (Z.M.); (A.T.); (G.S.); (Z.S.)
| | - Arnold Tóth
- Agribiotechnology and Precision Breeding for Food Security National Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Biotechnology, Department of Animal Biotechnology, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, 2100 Gödöllő, Hungary; (B.B.); (Z.M.); (A.T.); (G.S.); (Z.S.)
| | - Gabriella Skoda
- Agribiotechnology and Precision Breeding for Food Security National Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Biotechnology, Department of Animal Biotechnology, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, 2100 Gödöllő, Hungary; (B.B.); (Z.M.); (A.T.); (G.S.); (Z.S.)
| | - Győző F. Horváth
- Institute of Biology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (G.F.H.); (A.H.); (D.T.)
| | - Adrienn Horváth
- Institute of Biology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (G.F.H.); (A.H.); (D.T.)
| | - Dániel Tóth
- Institute of Biology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (G.F.H.); (A.H.); (D.T.)
| | - Farkas Sükösd
- Institute of Pathology, University of Szeged, 6720 Szeged, Hungary;
| | - László Szemethy
- Institute of Biology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (G.F.H.); (A.H.); (D.T.)
| | - Zsuzsanna Szőke
- Agribiotechnology and Precision Breeding for Food Security National Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Biotechnology, Department of Animal Biotechnology, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, 2100 Gödöllő, Hungary; (B.B.); (Z.M.); (A.T.); (G.S.); (Z.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhong Y, Lu H, Lu X, He Z, Jiang Y, Chen J, Liabsuetrakul T. Correlations of Aflatoxin Exposure from Cooking Oil and Dietary Foods During Pregnancy with Birth Weight and Gestational Age at Birth in Guangxi, China. Int J Gen Med 2024; 17:1171-1184. [PMID: 38562209 PMCID: PMC10982453 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s453839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Cooking oil and dietary foods are easily contaminated by aflatoxins (AFs) in Guangxi, China where low birth weight and preterm birth were prevalent. However, there are no data on AF exposure in pregnant women or their impact on newborn birth outcomes. This study aims to measure the levels and correlations of AFs in cooking oil, estimated dietary intake (EDI) of AFs in dietary foods, and serum AFB1 albumin adducts (AFB1-alb) with newborn birthweight and gestational age at birth. Methods A prospective study was conducted among 126 pregnant women in Guangxi, China. All recruited women were interviewed for demographic data and behavior and obstetric information and then followed up until giving birth. AF measurements were obtained from cooking oil, dietary foods, maternal serum, and cord blood and the correlations of AF levels with newborn birthweight and gestational age at birth were tested using correlation analysis. Results The median EDI of AFs in cooking oil was 2.61 ng/kg.bw/day and in dietary foods 2.95 ng/kg.bw/day. High positive correlations among EDI of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) from cooking oil and dietary foods were found (r > 0.7). Low positive correlations of AFB1-alb in maternal serum and cord blood and both EDI of AFB1 in both cooking oil and dietary foods were shown (r ≈0.3). Significant correlations between AF levels in both cooking oil and dietary foods with birth weight were found, but very low negative correlations (r = - 0.244 ~ -0.285). AFB1 levels in foods, maternal serum and cord blood levels were high in pregnant women with newborn low birth weight and preterm birth. Conclusion The EDIs of AFB1 from both cooking oil and dietary foods were significantly correlated with AFB1-alb in maternal serum and cord blood. Negative correlations of AFs from cooking oils and foods with newborn birth weight should be paid more attention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanxu Zhong
- Food Safety Monitoring and Evaluation Department, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, Guangxi Region, 530000, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla, 90110, Thailand
| | - Huan Lu
- Infectious Diseases Department, the Fourth People’s Hospital of Nanning, Nanning, Guangxi Region, 530000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaodan Lu
- Food Safety and Health Research Center, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhini He
- Food Safety and Health Research Center, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuyan Jiang
- Food Safety Monitoring and Evaluation Department, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, Guangxi Region, 530000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jie Chen
- Food Safety Monitoring and Evaluation Department, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, Guangxi Region, 530000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tippawan Liabsuetrakul
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla, 90110, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Abdallah MF, Gado M, Abdelsadek D, Zahran F, El-Salhey NN, Mehrez O, Abdel-Hay S, Mohamed SM, De Ruyck K, Yang S, Gonzales GB, Varga E. Mycotoxin contamination in the Arab world: Highlighting the main knowledge gaps and the current legislation. Mycotoxin Res 2024; 40:19-44. [PMID: 38117428 DOI: 10.1007/s12550-023-00513-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Since the discovery of aflatoxins in the 1960s, knowledge in the mycotoxin research field has increased dramatically. Hundreds of review articles have been published summarizing many different aspects, including mycotoxin contamination per country or region. However, mycotoxin contamination in the Arab world, which includes 22 countries in Africa and Asia, has not yet been specifically reviewed. To this end, the contamination of mycotoxins in the Arab world was reviewed not only to profile the pervasiveness of the problem in this region but also to identify the main knowledge gaps imperiling the safety of food and feed in the future. To the best of our knowledge, 306 (non-)indexed publications in English, Arabic, or French were published from 1977 to 2021, focusing on the natural occurrence of mycotoxins in matrices of 14 different categories. Characteristic factors (e.g., detected mycotoxins, concentrations, and detection methods) were extracted, processed, and visualized. The main results are summarized as follows: (i) research on mycotoxin contamination has increased over the years. However, the accumulated data on their occurrences are scarce to non-existent in some countries; (ii) the state-of-the-art technologies on mycotoxin detection are not broadly implemented neither are contemporary multi-mycotoxin detection strategies, thus showing a need for capacity-building initiatives; and (iii) mycotoxin profiles differ among food and feed categories, as well as between human biofluids. Furthermore, the present work highlights contemporary legislation in the Arab countries and provides future perspectives to mitigate mycotoxins, enhance food and feed safety, and protect the consumer public. Concluding, research initiatives to boost mycotoxin research among Arab countries are strongly recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed F Abdallah
- Department of Toxicology and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt.
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Muhammad Gado
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | | | - Fatma Zahran
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Menoufia University, Shibin El-Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Nada Nabil El-Salhey
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt
| | - Ohaila Mehrez
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sara Abdel-Hay
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, Gharbia Governorate, Egypt
| | - Sahar M Mohamed
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Karl De Ruyck
- Teagasc Food Research Centre, Ashtown, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Shupeng Yang
- Institute of Food Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Gerard Bryan Gonzales
- Nutrition, Metabolism and Genomics Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth Varga
- Department of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Institute of Food Safety, Food Technology and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kościelecka K, Kuć A, Kubik-Machura D, Męcik-Kronenberg T, Włodarek J, Radko L. Endocrine Effect of Some Mycotoxins on Humans: A Clinical Review of the Ways to Mitigate the Action of Mycotoxins. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:515. [PMID: 37755941 PMCID: PMC10535190 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15090515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungi such as Aspergillus spp. and Fusarium spp., which are commonly found in the environment, pose a serious global health problem. This study aims to present the results of epidemiological studies, including clinical cases, on the relationship between human exposure to some mycotoxins, especially zearalenone and aflatoxin, and the occurrence of reproductive disorders. In addition, examples of methods to reduce human exposure to mycotoxins are presented. In March 2023, various databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE and Web of Science) were systematically searched using Google Chrome to identify studies evaluating the association between exposure to mycotoxins and the occurrence of complications related to impaired fertility or cancer incidence. The analysed data indicate that exposure to the evaluated mycotoxins is widespread and correlates strongly with precocious puberty, reduced fertility and increased cancer incidence in women and men worldwide. There is evidence to suggest that exposure to the Aspergillus mycotoxin aflatoxin (AF) during pregnancy can impair intrauterine foetal growth, promote neonatal jaundice and cause perinatal death and preterm birth. In contrast, exposure to the Fusarium mycotoxin zearalenone (ZEA) leads to precocious sexual development, infertility, the development of malformations and the development of breast cancer. Unfortunately, the development of methods (biological, chemical or physical) to completely eliminate exposure to mycotoxins has limited practical application. The threat to human health from mycotoxins is real and further research is needed to improve our knowledge and specific public health interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Klaudia Kościelecka
- Department of Pathomorphology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, 3 Maja St. 13, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland; (K.K.); (A.K.); (D.K.-M.)
| | - Aleksandra Kuć
- Department of Pathomorphology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, 3 Maja St. 13, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland; (K.K.); (A.K.); (D.K.-M.)
| | - Daria Kubik-Machura
- Department of Pathomorphology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, 3 Maja St. 13, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland; (K.K.); (A.K.); (D.K.-M.)
| | - Tomasz Męcik-Kronenberg
- Department of Pathomorphology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, 3 Maja St. 13, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland; (K.K.); (A.K.); (D.K.-M.)
| | - Jan Włodarek
- Department of Preclinical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wolynska St. 35, 60-637 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Lidia Radko
- Department of Preclinical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wolynska St. 35, 60-637 Poznan, Poland;
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Stoev SD. Foodborne Diseases Due to Underestimated Hazard of Joint Mycotoxin Exposure at Low Levels and Possible Risk Assessment. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:464. [PMID: 37505733 PMCID: PMC10467111 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15070464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The subject of this review paper is to evaluate the underestimated hazard of multiple mycotoxin exposure of animals/humans for the appearance of foodborne ailments and diseases. The significance of joint mycotoxin interaction in the development of foodborne diseases is discussed, and appropriate conclusions are made. The importance of low feed/food levels of some target mycotoxins co-contaminations in food and feedstuffs for induction of target foodborne mycotoxicoses is also studied in the available literature. The appropriate hygiene control and the necessary risk assessment in regard to possible hazards for animals and humans are also discussed, and appropriate suggestions are made. Some internationally recognized prophylactic measures, management of the risk, and the necessity of elaboration of new international regulations in regard to the maximum permitted levels are also carefully discussed and analysed in the cases of multiple mycotoxin contaminations. The necessity of harmonization of mycotoxin regulations and control measures at international levels is also discussed in order to facilitate food trade between the countries and to ensure global food safety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stoycho D Stoev
- Department of General and Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, Students Campus, 6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Matchado A, Smith JW, Schulze KJ, Groopman JD, Kortekangas E, Chaima D, Arnold CD, Maleta K, Ashorn U, Ashorn P, Dewey KG, Stewart CP. Child Aflatoxin Exposure is Associated with Poor Child Growth Outcomes: A Prospective Cohort Study in Rural Malawi. Curr Dev Nutr 2023; 7:101962. [PMID: 37426291 PMCID: PMC10328803 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2023.101962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Aflatoxin (AF) exposure is associated with child growth faltering in cross-sectional studies, with limited findings from longitudinal studies. Objectives To evaluate the relationship between maternal AF B1-lysine adduct concentration, child AF B1-lysine adduct concentration, and child growth in the first 30 mo of life. Methods AF B1-lysine adduct was measured in mother-child dyad plasma samples using isotope dilution mass spectrometry. Using linear regression, we assessed the relationship between AF B1-lysine adduct concentration and child weight, height, and head and mid-upper arm circumferences at 1 wk, 6, 12, 18, 24, and 30 mo of age. Results In adjusted models, maternal prenatal AF B1-lysine adduct (pg/μL) was positively associated with newborn anthropometric outcomes; largest beta coefficients for associations between standardized values were for newborn weight-for-age z-score [β = 0.13; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.02, 0.24; P < 0.05 and β = 0.11; 95% CI: 0.00, 0.22; P < 0.05 for second and third trimester AF, respectively]. Child AF B1-lysine adduct (pg/μL) at 6 mo was negatively associated with head circumference-for-age z-score at 6, 18, 24, and 30 mo, with beta coefficients ranging from β = -0.15; 95% CI: -0.28, -0.02 to β = -0.17; 95% CI: -0.31, -0.03; P < 0.05); 18-mo AF was negatively associated with anthropometric outcomes at 18, 24, and 30 mo, most consistently with length-for-age z-score (β = -0.18; 95% CI: -0.32, -0.04, β = -0.21; 95% CI: -0.35, -0.07, β = -0.18; 95% CI: -0.32, -0.03 at 18, 24 and 30 mo, respectively). Conclusions Child AF exposure was associated with impaired child growth, but maternal AF exposure was not. Exposure during infancy was linked to persistent deficit in head circumference, implying reduced brain size lasting beyond the age of 2 years. Exposure at 18 mo was linked to persistent linear growth deficit. Further research should elucidate mechanisms through which AF affects child growth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Matchado
- School of Global and Public Health, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
- Department of Nutrition, Institute for Global Nutrition, University of California, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Joshua W. Smith
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Kerry J. Schulze
- Department of International Health, Center for Human Nutrition, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - John D. Groopman
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Emma Kortekangas
- Center for Child, Adolescent, and Maternal Health Research, Tampere University and Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - David Chaima
- School of Global and Public Health, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Charles D. Arnold
- Department of Nutrition, Institute for Global Nutrition, University of California, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Kenneth Maleta
- School of Global and Public Health, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Ulla Ashorn
- Center for Child, Adolescent, and Maternal Health Research, Tampere University and Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Per Ashorn
- Center for Child, Adolescent, and Maternal Health Research, Tampere University and Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
- Department of Paediatrics, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Kathryn G. Dewey
- Department of Nutrition, Institute for Global Nutrition, University of California, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Christine P. Stewart
- Department of Nutrition, Institute for Global Nutrition, University of California, Davis, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Toutounchi NS, Braber S, Land BV, Thijssen S, Garssen J, Folkerts G, Hogenkamp A. Deoxynivalenol exposure during pregnancy has adverse effects on placental structure and immunity in mice model. Reprod Toxicol 2022; 112:109-118. [PMID: 35840118 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2022.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Deoxynivalenol (DON), a highly prevalent food contaminant, is known to induce reproductive and immunotoxicity in humans upon exposure. The present study focused on the consequences of exposure to DON during pregnancy for placental barrier and immune function, as well as fetal survival. Female mice received diets contaminated with DON (6.25 and 12.5 mg/kg of diet), starting immediately after mating until the end of the experiment. On day 17 of pregnancy the animals were killed, and maternal and fetal samples were collected for further analysis. Feeding on DON-contaminated diets decreased fetal survival, and DON was detected at significant levels in the fetus. Placentae from DON-exposed mice revealed a reduction in expression of junctional proteins, ZO-1, E-cadherin and claudins, upregulation of AHR mRNA expressions, and increase in IFN-ꝩ, IL-6 and IL-4 production. In conclusion, results of this study demonstrate harmful effects of DON on the course of pregnancy and fetal survival, which might be due to immunological changes in maternal immune organs and placenta. Altogether, these data underline the importance of the quality of maternal diet during pregnancy as they clearly demonstrate the potential harmful effects of a commonly present food-contaminant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Negisa Seyed Toutounchi
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Saskia Braber
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Belinda Van't Land
- Department of Immunology, Danone Nutricia Research, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Laboratory of Translational Immunology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Suzan Thijssen
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Johan Garssen
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Immunology, Danone Nutricia Research, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Gert Folkerts
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Astrid Hogenkamp
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kyei NNA, Cramer B, Humpf HU, Degen GH, Ali N, Gabrysch S. Assessment of multiple mycotoxin exposure and its association with food consumption: a human biomonitoring study in a pregnant cohort in rural Bangladesh. Arch Toxicol 2022; 96:2123-2138. [PMID: 35441239 PMCID: PMC9151532 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-022-03288-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Aflatoxins (AFs), ochratoxin A (OTA), citrinin (CIT), fumonisin B1 (FB1), zearalenone (ZEN), and deoxynivalenol (DON) are mycotoxins that may contaminate diets, especially in low-income settings, with potentially severe health consequences. This study investigates the exposure of 439 pregnant women in rural Bangladesh to 35 mycotoxins and their corresponding health risks and links their exposure to certain foods and local stimulants. Overall, 447 first-morning urine samples were collected from pregnant women between July 2018 and November 2019. Mycotoxin biomarkers were quantified by DaS-HPLC-MS/MS. Urinary concentration of frequently occurring mycotoxins was used to estimate dietary mycotoxin exposure. Median regression analyses were performed to investigate the association between the consumption of certain foods and local stimulants, and urinary concentration of frequently occurring mycotoxins. Only in 17 of 447 urine samples (4%) were none of the investigated mycotoxins detected. Biomarkers for six major mycotoxins (AFs, CIT, DON, FB1, OTA, and ZEN) were detected in the urine samples. OTA (95%), CIT (61%), and DON (6%) were most frequently detected, with multiple mycotoxins co-occurring in 281/447 (63%) of urine samples. Under the lowest exposure scenario, dietary exposure to OTA, CIT, and DON was of public health concern in 95%, 16%, and 1% of the pregnant women, respectively. Consumption of specific foods and local stimulants-betel nut, betel leaf, and chewing tobacco-were associated with OTA, CIT, and DON urine levels. In conclusion, exposure to multiple mycotoxins during early pregnancy is widespread in this rural community and represents a potential health risk for mothers and their offspring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas N A Kyei
- Institute of Public Health, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 324, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Research Department 2, Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK), Member of the Leibniz Association, P. O. Box 60 12 03, 14412, Potsdam, Germany.
| | - Benedikt Cramer
- Institute of Food Chemistry, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Corrensstr. 45, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Hans-Ulrich Humpf
- Institute of Food Chemistry, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Corrensstr. 45, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Gisela H Degen
- Leibniz-Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors (IfADo) at the TU Dortmund, Ardeystr. 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Nurshad Ali
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet, Bangladesh
| | - Sabine Gabrysch
- Institute of Public Health, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 324, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Research Department 2, Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK), Member of the Leibniz Association, P. O. Box 60 12 03, 14412, Potsdam, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Salas R, Acosta N, Garza ADJ, Tijerina A, Dávila R, Jiménez-Salas Z, Otero L, Santos M, Trujillo AJ. Levels of Aflatoxin M1 in Breast Milk of Lactating Mothers in Monterrey, Mexico: Exposure and Health Risk Assessment of Newborns. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14030194. [PMID: 35324691 PMCID: PMC8949939 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14030194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to determine the presence of the aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) in breast milk samples from 123 nursing women and the degree of exposure of infants to this toxin, in the metropolitan area of Monterrey, Nuevo Leon state (northeast Mexico). Upon analysis, 100% of the samples were found to be contaminated with the toxin at an average concentration of 17.04 ng/L, with a range of 5.00 to 66.23 ng/L. A total of 13.01% of the breast milk samples exceeded the regulatory limit of 25 ng/L for AFM1 concentration, set by the European Union. The estimated daily intake for AFM1 and the carcinogenic risk index were also determined in the 0- to 6-, 7- to 12-, 13- to 24-, and 25- to 36-month-old age groups. The AFM1 intake through breast milk ranged from 1.09 to 20.17 ng/kg weight/day, and was higher than the tolerable daily intake, indicating a carcinogenic risk for infants in the age groups of 0- to 24-months old. This evidence demonstrates a susceptibility of breast milk to AFM1 contamination that may suggest a carcinogenic risk for the breastfed infants in Monterrey city, Nuevo Leon state, and the need to control the presence of aflatoxins in foods eaten by nursing mothers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rogelio Salas
- Centro de Investigación en Nutrición y Salud Pública (CINSP), Facultad de Salud Pública y Nutrición, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey 64460, Mexico; (N.A.); (A.T.); (Z.J.-S.); (L.O.); (M.S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Nallely Acosta
- Centro de Investigación en Nutrición y Salud Pública (CINSP), Facultad de Salud Pública y Nutrición, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey 64460, Mexico; (N.A.); (A.T.); (Z.J.-S.); (L.O.); (M.S.)
| | - Aurora de Jesús Garza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey 64460, Mexico; (A.d.J.G.); (R.D.)
| | - Alexandra Tijerina
- Centro de Investigación en Nutrición y Salud Pública (CINSP), Facultad de Salud Pública y Nutrición, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey 64460, Mexico; (N.A.); (A.T.); (Z.J.-S.); (L.O.); (M.S.)
| | - Roberto Dávila
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey 64460, Mexico; (A.d.J.G.); (R.D.)
| | - Zacarías Jiménez-Salas
- Centro de Investigación en Nutrición y Salud Pública (CINSP), Facultad de Salud Pública y Nutrición, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey 64460, Mexico; (N.A.); (A.T.); (Z.J.-S.); (L.O.); (M.S.)
| | - Laura Otero
- Centro de Investigación en Nutrición y Salud Pública (CINSP), Facultad de Salud Pública y Nutrición, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey 64460, Mexico; (N.A.); (A.T.); (Z.J.-S.); (L.O.); (M.S.)
| | - Mirna Santos
- Centro de Investigación en Nutrición y Salud Pública (CINSP), Facultad de Salud Pública y Nutrición, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey 64460, Mexico; (N.A.); (A.T.); (Z.J.-S.); (L.O.); (M.S.)
| | - Antonio-José Trujillo
- Centre d’Innovació, Recerca i Transferència en Tecnologia dels Aliments (CIRTTA), TECNIO-UAB, XIA, Departament de Ciència Animal i dels Aliments, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain;
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Alvito P, Pereira-da-Silva L. Mycotoxin Exposure during the First 1000 Days of Life and Its Impact on Children’s Health: A Clinical Overview. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14030189. [PMID: 35324686 PMCID: PMC8955462 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14030189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The first 1000 days of life are very sensitive to any event that alters health programming, and they represent a window for intervention to improve population health. Pregnant women, fetuses, and infants are particularly vulnerable to exposure to food contaminated with mycotoxins. This review aimed to gather data from the literature on mycotoxins exposure during intrauterine life and early childhood, and associated health risks, as assessed through human biomonitoring and mycotoxins occurrence in foods, in different continents. Maternal internal exposure to aflatoxins is associated with fetal growth restriction, while exposure to fumonisins increases the risk of offspring’s neural tube defects. Mycotoxin contamination of breast milk is reported worldwide, but data on adverse effects of the lactational transfer of mycotoxins on infant health are lacking. Young children are exposed to mycotoxins through contaminated infant formulas and baby foods. Both external and internal exposure to aflatoxins and fumonisins in children are reported to be associated with growth impairment. In low-income settings, where other co-factors can affect growth, this association should be interpreted with caution. Further studies on human biomonitoring of mother–infant pairs and young children are needed to guide management strategies aiming to minimize mycotoxin exposure at critical developmental stages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paula Alvito
- Food and Nutrition Department, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, 1649-016 Lisbon, Portugal
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
- Correspondence:
| | - Luís Pereira-da-Silva
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre, NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal;
- Hospital Dona Estefânia, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, 1169-045 Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Tesfamariam K, Argaw A, Hanley-Cook GT, Gebreyesus SH, Kolsteren P, Belachew T, Van de Velde M, De Saeger S, De Boevre M, Lachat C. Multiple mycotoxin exposure during pregnancy and risks of adverse birth outcomes: a prospective cohort study in rural Ethiopia. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 160:107052. [PMID: 34952355 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.107052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mycotoxin exposure during pregnancy has been associated with adverse birth outcomes in low- and middle-income countries. The evidence, however, is inconsistent and mainly limited to the assessment of a single mycotoxin. We assessed biomarkers of exposure to multiple mycotoxins during pregnancy and their associations with adverse birth outcomes in rural Ethiopia. METHODS We analyzed data from 579 pregnant women between 8 and 24 weeks of completed gestation enrolled in a prospective cohort study. Serum mycotoxin concentrations were determined using liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. Multivariable linear probability models, adjusted for potential confounding factors and multiple comparisons, were fitted to assess the associations between mycotoxin exposure and small for gestational age and preterm birth. We applied principal component analysis to reduce the dimensionality of biomarker data from several taxonomic mycotoxin groups. RESULTS All pregnant women were co-exposed to at least five mycotoxins, and one pregnant woman was co-exposed to 27 mycotoxins. Fumonisins (FB), i.e., FB2, FB3, FB1, and tenuazonic acid were the most frequently identified mycotoxins in 98.8, 95.3, 93.3, and 81.4% of the samples respectively. Deoxynivalenol was detected in 38.7%, nivalenol in 50.1%, ochratoxin α in 67.9%, and zearalenone in 50.9% of the serum samples. After adjustment, we found no statistically significant (all P ≥ 0.05) associations between mycotoxin exposures and birth outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Despite our study providing no evidence for relationships between mycotoxin biomarkers and adverse birth outcomes, our findings do indicate an extensive presence of multiple mycotoxin exposure among pregnant women. Public health policies and nutrition-sensitive interventions must ensure exposure to mycotoxins is reduced in rural Ethiopia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kokeb Tesfamariam
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ambo University, Ambo, Ethiopia; Center of Excellence in Mycotoxicology and Public Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, MYTOX-SOUTH® Coordination Unit, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Population and Family Health, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Alemayehu Argaw
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Population and Family Health, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Giles T Hanley-Cook
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Seifu H Gebreyesus
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Patrick Kolsteren
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tefera Belachew
- Department of Population and Family Health, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Mario Van de Velde
- Center of Excellence in Mycotoxicology and Public Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, MYTOX-SOUTH® Coordination Unit, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sarah De Saeger
- Center of Excellence in Mycotoxicology and Public Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, MYTOX-SOUTH® Coordination Unit, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biotechnology and Food Technology, Faculty of Science, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein Campus, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Marthe De Boevre
- Center of Excellence in Mycotoxicology and Public Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, MYTOX-SOUTH® Coordination Unit, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Carl Lachat
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ivanovics B, Gazsi G, Reining M, Berta I, Poliska S, Toth M, Domokos A, Nagy B, Staszny A, Cserhati M, Csosz E, Bacsi A, Csenki-Bakos Z, Acs A, Urbanyi B, Czimmerer Z. Embryonic exposure to low concentrations of aflatoxin B1 triggers global transcriptomic changes, defective yolk lipid mobilization, abnormal gastrointestinal tract development and inflammation in zebrafish. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 416:125788. [PMID: 33838512 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.125788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
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.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bence Ivanovics
- Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-2100 Godollo, Hungary
| | - Gyongyi Gazsi
- Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-2100 Godollo, Hungary
| | - Marta Reining
- Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-2100 Godollo, Hungary
| | - Izabella Berta
- Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-2100 Godollo, Hungary
| | - Szilard Poliska
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Marta Toth
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Apolka Domokos
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary; Molecular Cell and Immunobiology Doctoral School, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Bela Nagy
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Adam Staszny
- Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-2100 Godollo, Hungary
| | - Matyas Cserhati
- Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-2100 Godollo, Hungary
| | - Eva Csosz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Attila Bacsi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Csenki-Bakos
- Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-2100 Godollo, Hungary
| | - Andras Acs
- Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-2100 Godollo, Hungary
| | - Bela Urbanyi
- Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-2100 Godollo, Hungary.
| | - Zsolt Czimmerer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Gromadzka K, Pankiewicz J, Beszterda M, Paczkowska M, Nowakowska B, Kocyłowski R. The Presence of Mycotoxins in Human Amniotic Fluid. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:409. [PMID: 34207874 PMCID: PMC8228883 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13060409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycotoxin exposure assessments through biomonitoring studies, based on the analysis of amniotic fluid, provides useful information about potential exposure of mothers and fetuses to ubiquitous toxic metabolites that are routinely found in food and the environment. In this study, amniotic fluid samples (n = 86) were collected via abdominal amniocentesis at 15-22 weeks of gestation from pregnant women with a high risk of chromosomal anomalies or genetic fetal defects detected during 1st trimester prenatal screening. These samples were analyzed for the presence of the most typical Aspergillus, Penicillium and Fusarium mycotoxins, with a focus on aflatoxins, ochratoxins and trichothecenes, using the LC-FLD/DAD method. The results showed that the toxin was present in over 75% of all the tested samples and in 73% of amniotic fluid samples from fetuses with genetic defects. The most frequently identified toxins were nivalenol (33.7%) ranging from
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Gromadzka
- Department of Chemistry, Poznań University of Life Sciences, ul. Wojska Polskiego 75, 60-625 Poznań, Poland
| | - Jakub Pankiewicz
- Premedicare, NEW MED Medical Center, ul. Drużbickiego 13, 60-693 Poznań, Poland; (J.P.); (R.K.)
| | - Monika Beszterda
- Department of Food Biochemistry and Analysis, Poznań University of Life Sciences, ul. Mazowiecka 48, 60-623 Poznań, Poland;
| | - Magdalena Paczkowska
- The Institute of Mother and Child, ul. Kasprzaka 17a, 01-211 Warszawa, Poland; (M.P.); (B.N.)
| | - Beata Nowakowska
- The Institute of Mother and Child, ul. Kasprzaka 17a, 01-211 Warszawa, Poland; (M.P.); (B.N.)
| | - Rafał Kocyłowski
- Premedicare, NEW MED Medical Center, ul. Drużbickiego 13, 60-693 Poznań, Poland; (J.P.); (R.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Raafat N, Emam WA, Gharib AF, Nafea OE, Zakaria M. Assessment of serum aflatoxin B 1 levels in neonatal jaundice with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency: a preliminary study. Mycotoxin Res 2021; 37:109-116. [PMID: 33428107 DOI: 10.1007/s12550-020-00421-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Aflatoxin (AF) contamination of food products is still a major health issue globally. Prior studies suggest that exposure to AFs during pregnancy has harmful fetal outcomes. This preliminary study was designed to assess serum AFB1 levels in neonatal jaundice (NNJ) secondary to glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. Twenty-four full-term neonates with hemolytic jaundice secondary to G6PD deficiency were enrolled in the study. Erythrocyte G6PD status was assessed colorimetrically, and serum aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) concentrations were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography. The results revealed that AFB1 was detected in 58% (14/24) of the studied newborns while detected in 75% (18/24) of their mothers. AFB1 positive cases had a highly significantly lower birthweight and G6PD activity (P = 0.001, each). Birthweight (r = - 0.574, P = 0.032) and G6PD activity (r = - 0.585, P = 0.028) negatively correlated with serum AFB1 levels while serum alanine aminotransferase activity positively correlated with serum AFB1 levels (r = 0.536, P = 0.048). Maternal AFB1 exposure is associated with adverse birth outcomes as verified by the low birthweight and the evident decline in the activity of G6PD enzyme with the resultant hemolytic NNJ.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nermin Raafat
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Wafaa A Emam
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Amal F Gharib
- Clinical Laboratory Sciences Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ola E Nafea
- Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology Department, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt. .,Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Collage of Pharmacy, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Marwa Zakaria
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Adaku Chilaka C, Mally A. Mycotoxin Occurrence, Exposure and Health Implications in Infants and Young Children in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Review. Foods 2020; 9:E1585. [PMID: 33139646 PMCID: PMC7693847 DOI: 10.3390/foods9111585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Infants and young children (IYC) remain the most vulnerable population group to environmental hazards worldwide, especially in economically developing regions such as sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). As a result, several governmental and non-governmental institutions including health, environmental and food safety networks and researchers have been proactive toward protecting this group. Mycotoxins, toxic secondary fungal metabolites, contribute largely to the health risks of this young population. In SSA, the scenario is worsened by socioeconomic status, poor agricultural and storage practices, and low level of awareness, as well as the non-establishment and lack of enforcement of regulatory limits in the region. Studies have revealed mycotoxin occurrence in breast milk and other weaning foods. Of concern is the early exposure of infants to mycotoxins through transplacental transfer and breast milk as a consequence of maternal exposure, which may result in adverse health effects. The current paper presents an overview of mycotoxin occurrence in foods intended for IYC in SSA. It discusses the imperative evidence of mycotoxin exposure of this population group in SSA, taking into account consumption data and the occurrence of mycotoxins in food, as well as biomonitoring approaches. Additionally, it discusses the health implications associated with IYC exposure to mycotoxins in SSA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Adaku Chilaka
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Julius Maximilian University of Würzburg, Versbacher Straβe 9, 97078 Würzburg, Germany;
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
Pregnancy is not a disease condition; it is a physiological process. However, the risks prevail until this process ends. While many pregnancies and births culminate without any problems, a considerable number of them end up with undesirable pregnancy outcomes such as intrauterine growth retardation, preterm labor, and low birth weight infants. Although the causes of these negative pregnancy outcomes are not fully understood, they occur in a multifactorial ways. One of the important issues here is the foods consumed by women with pregnancy. Pregnant women should avoid consuming fast food products, alcohol, or tobacco, which are already known to be harmful to human health, as well as harmful natural products containing mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are natural toxins with a wide range of chemical structures. While people can get these toxins directly from agricultural products, they can also be exposed indirectly through products of animals fed with contaminated feed. Mycotoxins have negative impacts on human health with their carcinogenic, teratogenic, and mutagenic effects. There are some evidences that mycotoxins can lead to negative pregnancy outcomes. These possible negative effects have been determined to be lower birth weight, neonatal jaundice, fetal loss, fetal defects, preterm birth, maternal anemia, and preeclampsia. However, more evidence is needed on this topic. This review aims to investigate the adverse effects of mycotoxins during pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Serkan Yilmaz
- Faculty of Nursing, Department of Midwifery, University of Ankara, Ankara, Turkey.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ankara, Ankara, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Lauer JM, Natamba BK, Ghosh S, Webb P, Wang JS, Griffiths JK. Aflatoxin exposure in pregnant women of mixed status of human immunodeficiency virus infection and rate of gestational weight gain: a Ugandan cohort study. Trop Med Int Health 2020; 25:1145-1154. [PMID: 32623795 PMCID: PMC7539974 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Objectives To examine the association between aflatoxin (AF) exposure during pregnancy and rate of gestational weight gain (GWG) in a sample of pregnant women of mixed HIV status in Gulu, northern Uganda. Methods 403 pregnant women were included (133 HIV‐infected on antiretroviral therapy (ART), 270 HIV‐uninfected). Women’s weight, height and socio‐demographic characteristics were collected at baseline (~19 weeks’ gestation); weight was assessed at each follow‐up visit. Serum was collected at baseline and tested for aflatoxin B1‐lysine adduct (AFB‐lys) levels using high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Linear mixed‐effects models were used to examine the association between AFB‐lys levels and rate of GWG. Results AFB‐lys levels (detected in 98.3% of samples) were higher among HIV‐infected pregnant women than HIV‐uninfected pregnant women [median (interquartile range): 4.8 (2.0, 15.0) vs. 3.5 (1.6, 6.1) pg/mg of albumin, P < 0.0001]. Adjusting for HIV status, a one‐log increase in aflatoxin levels was associated with a 16.2 g per week lower rate of GWG (P = 0.028). The association between AFB‐lys and the rate of GWG was stronger and significant only among HIV‐infected women on ART [−25.7 g per week per log (AFB‐lys), P = 0.009 for HIV‐infected women vs. −7.5 g per week per log (AFB‐lys), P = 0.422 for HIV‐uninfected women]. Conclusions Pregnant women with higher levels of AF exposure had lower rates of GWG. The association was stronger for HIV‐infected women on ART, suggesting increased risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline M Lauer
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Nutrition, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Barnabas K Natamba
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Noncommunicable Diseases Theme, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Shibani Ghosh
- Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Nutrition, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA.,Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Patrick Webb
- Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Nutrition, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA.,Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jia-Sheng Wang
- Department of Environmental Health Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Jeffrey K Griffiths
- Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Owumi SE, Adedara IA, Akomolafe AP, Farombi EO, Oyelere AK. Gallic acid enhances reproductive function by modulating oxido-inflammatory and apoptosis mediators in rats exposed to aflatoxin-B1. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2020; 245:1016-1028. [PMID: 32558593 DOI: 10.1177/1535370220936206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPACT STATEMENT Infertility resulting from reproductive deficiency can be stressful. Exposure to aflatoxin B1, a dietary mycotoxin prevalent in improperly stored grains, is reported to elicit reproductive insufficiencies and infertility. We, therefore, examined the likely beneficial effect of gallic acid (GA) a phytochemical, recognized to exhibit in vitro and in vivo pharmacological bioactivities against oxidative stress and related inflammatory damages in rats, since AFB1 toxicities are predicated on oxidative epoxide formation, in a bid to proffer new evidence to advance the field of nutriceutical application from plant-derived chemopreventive agents. Our findings will advance the field of chemoprevention by presenting data absent in the literature on GA. Our results demonstrate further evidence for GA conferred protection against AFB1-mediated histological lesions in testes, epididymis, and hypothalamus of treated rats; suppresses oxidative damages, relieved inflammatory and apoptotic responses, restored sperm functional characteristics, and hormonal levels relevant for reproductive integrity and function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Solomon E Owumi
- Cancer Research and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan 200004, Nigeria
| | - Isaac A Adedara
- Drug Metabolism and Toxicology Research Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan 200004, Nigeria
| | - Ayomide P Akomolafe
- Cancer Research and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan 200004, Nigeria
| | - Ebenezer O Farombi
- Drug Metabolism and Toxicology Research Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan 200004, Nigeria
| | - Adegboyega K Oyelere
- School of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332-0400, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Arce-López B, Lizarraga E, Vettorazzi A, González-Peñas E. Human Biomonitoring of Mycotoxins in Blood, Plasma and Serum in Recent Years: A Review. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:E147. [PMID: 32121036 PMCID: PMC7150965 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12030147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This manuscript reviews the state-of-the-art regarding human biological monitoring (HBM) of mycotoxins in plasma serum and blood samples. After a comprehensive and systematic literature review, with a focus on the last five years, several aspects were analyzed and summarized: a) the biomarkers analyzed and their encountered levels, b) the analytical methodologies developed and c) the relationship between biomarker levels and some illnesses. In the literature reviewed, aflatoxin B1-lysine (AFB1-lys) and ochratoxin A (OTA) in plasma and serum were the most widely studied mycotoxin biomarkers for HBM. Regarding analytical methodologies, a clear increase in the development of methods for the simultaneous determination of multiple mycotoxins has been observed. For this purpose, the use of liquid chromatography (LC) methodologies, especially when coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) or high resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), has grown. A high percentage of the samples analyzed for OTA or aflatoxin B1 (mostly as AFB1-lys) in the reviewed papers were positive, demonstrating human exposure to mycotoxins. This review confirms the importance of mycotoxin human biomonitoring and highlights the important challenges that should be faced, such as the inclusion of other mycotoxins in HBM programs, the need to increase knowledge of mycotoxin metabolism and toxicokinetics, and the need for reference materials and new methodologies for treating samples. In addition, guidelines are required for analytical method validation, as well as equations to establish the relationship between human fluid levels and mycotoxin intake.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Arce-López
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Chemistry; Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Navarra, Spain; (B.A.-L.); (E.G.-P.)
| | - Elena Lizarraga
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Chemistry; Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Navarra, Spain; (B.A.-L.); (E.G.-P.)
| | - Ariane Vettorazzi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology. School of Pharmacy and Nutrition, 31008 Pamplona, Navarra, Spain;
- IdiSNA, Institute for Health Research, 31008 Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
| | - Elena González-Peñas
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Chemistry; Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Navarra, Spain; (B.A.-L.); (E.G.-P.)
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
|
22
|
Kyei NNA, Boakye D, Gabrysch S. Maternal mycotoxin exposure and adverse pregnancy outcomes: a systematic review. Mycotoxin Res 2020; 36:243-255. [PMID: 31989413 PMCID: PMC7182542 DOI: 10.1007/s12550-019-00384-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Mycotoxin exposure from food occurs globally but is more common in hot humid environments, especially in low-income settings, and might affect pregnancy outcomes. This study aimed to synthesize the evidence from epidemiological studies on the relationship between maternal or fetal exposure to different mycotoxins and the occurrence of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Multiple databases were systematically searched up to December 2018 to identify studies that assessed the association between mycotoxin exposure in pregnant women or fetuses and at least one pregnancy outcome. Studies were appraised and results were synthesized using standard methods for conducting systematic reviews. This review identified and included 17 relevant studies. There is some evidence to suggest that exposure to various Aspergillus mycotoxins (e.g., aflatoxin) during pregnancy may impair intrauterine fetal growth and promote neonatal jaundice. Findings were inconclusive concerning the influence of aflatoxin exposure on perinatal death and preterm birth. Only two studies assessed effects of maternal exposure to Fusarium mycotoxins (e.g., fumonisin) on adverse pregnancy outcomes. These studies found that maternal fumonisin exposure may be associated with hypertensive emergencies in pregnancy and with neural tube defects. Studies using grain farming and weather conditions as a proxy measure for mycotoxin exposure found that such exposure was associated with an increased risk of preterm birth and late-term miscarriage. In conclusion, there is already some evidence to suggest that exposure to mycotoxins during pregnancy may have detrimental effects on pregnancy outcomes. However, given the limited number of studies, especially on effects of Fusarium mycotoxins, more studies are needed for a more comprehensive understanding of the effects of different mycotoxins on maternal and fetal health and to guide public health policies and interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas N A Kyei
- Unit of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 324, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany. .,Public Health Division, 37 Military Hospital, Accra, Ghana.
| | - Daniel Boakye
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology and Aging Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Im Neuenheimer Feld 581, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sabine Gabrysch
- Unit of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 324, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,Research Department 2, Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, Potsdam, Germany.,Institute of Public Health, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Benkerroum N. Chronic and Acute Toxicities of Aflatoxins: Mechanisms of Action. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E423. [PMID: 31936320 PMCID: PMC7013914 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17020423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
There are presently more than 18 known aflatoxins most of which have been insufficiently studied for their incidence, health-risk, and mechanisms of toxicity to allow effective intervention and control means that would significantly and sustainably reduce their incidence and adverse effects on health and economy. Among these, aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) has been by far the most studied; yet, many aspects of the range and mechanisms of the diseases it causes remain to be elucidated. Its mutagenicity, tumorigenicity, and carcinogenicity-which are the best known-still suffer from limitations regarding the relative contribution of the oxidative stress and the reactive epoxide derivative (Aflatoxin-exo 8,9-epoxide) in the induction of the diseases, as well as its metabolic and synthesis pathways. Additionally, despite the well-established additive effects for carcinogenicity between AFB1 and other risk factors, e.g., hepatitis viruses B and C, and the hepatotoxic algal microcystins, the mechanisms of this synergy remain unclear. This study reviews the most recent advances in the field of the mechanisms of toxicity of aflatoxins and the adverse health effects that they cause in humans and animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noreddine Benkerroum
- Department of Food Science and Agricultural Chemistry MacDonald Campus, McGill University, 21111 Lakeshore, Ste Anne de Bellevue, QC H9X 3V9, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Tesfamariam K, De Boevre M, Kolsteren P, Belachew T, Mesfin A, De Saeger S, Lachat C. Dietary mycotoxins exposure and child growth, immune system, morbidity, and mortality: a systematic literature review. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2019; 60:3321-3341. [PMID: 31694387 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2019.1685455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to systematically review associations between dietary mycotoxins exposure and child growth and morbidity of children aged 5 years or younger. Peer-reviewed literature was searched in MEDLINE, EMBASE, COCHRANE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and PsycINFO. Experimental and observational studies were considered. The exposures were dietary mycotoxins during pregnancy, lactation and childhood, and mycotoxins concentrations in the diet, breast milk, urine, and blood. From a total of 4869 references, 86 full-text papers were extracted of which 50 were included in this review. The methodological quality and risk of bias were evaluated and quality of the collective evidence was assessed using GRADE. Uncertainty remains whether mycotoxins exposure affects child growth, immunity and mortality and the overall quality of the evidence is very low. Overall however, we cannot rule out a possible association between dietary mycotoxins, in particular, AF and FUM and child malnutrition. Our analyses were limited by the reporting quality, difference in findings, heterogeneity of outcomes, mycotoxins detection methods, and the observational nature of most studies. Robust study designs with adequate sample size, use of validated biomarkers of exposure and assessment of co-occurrence of mycotoxins and their synergistic effects are required to provide the further evidence regarding a potential effect of dietary mycotoxins exposure on child growth and immunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kokeb Tesfamariam
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Public Health, Ambo University, Ambo, Ethiopia.,Department of Population and Family Health, Faculty of Public Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Marthe De Boevre
- Center of Excellence in Mycotoxicology and Public Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Patrick Kolsteren
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tefera Belachew
- Department of Population and Family Health, Faculty of Public Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Addisalem Mesfin
- Department of Population and Family Health, Faculty of Public Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia.,Center of Excellence in Mycotoxicology and Public Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Human Nutrition, College of Agriculture, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Sarah De Saeger
- Center of Excellence in Mycotoxicology and Public Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Carl Lachat
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Andrews-Trevino JY, Webb P, Shively G, Rogers BL, Baral K, Davis D, Paudel K, Pokharel A, Shrestha R, Wang JS, Ghosh S. Relatively Low Maternal Aflatoxin Exposure Is Associated with Small-for-Gestational-Age but Not with Other Birth Outcomes in a Prospective Birth Cohort Study of Nepalese Infants. J Nutr 2019; 149:1818-1825. [PMID: 31198947 DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxz122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to aflatoxin has garnered increased attention as a possible contributor to adverse birth outcomes. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to investigate the relation of maternal aflatoxin exposure with adverse birth outcomes such as birth weight, birth length, anthropometric z scores, low birth weight (LBW), small-for-gestational-age (SGA), stunting, and preterm birth (PTB). METHODS This study used maternal and newborn data from the AflaCohort Study, an ongoing birth cohort study in Banke, Nepal (n = 1621). Data on aflatoxin B1 (AFB1)-lysine adducts in maternal serum were collected once during pregnancy (at mean ± SD: 136 ± 43 d of gestation). Maternal serum AFB1-lysine adduct concentration was measured via HPLC. Linear and logistic regression analyses were used to determine if maternal aflatoxin exposure was associated with 1) birth weight and length (primary outcomes) and 2) anthropometric z scores, LBW (weight <2.5 kg), SGA (weight <10th percentile for gestational age and sex), stunting at birth (length-for-age z score less than -2), or PTB (born <37 weeks of gestation) (secondary outcomes). RESULTS The geometric mean of maternal serum AFB1-lysine adduct concentration was 1.37 pg/mg albumin (95% CI: 1.30, 1.44 pg/mg albumin). Twenty percent of infants were of LBW and 32% were SGA. Sixteen percent of infants were stunted at birth. In addition, 13% of infants were born preterm. In logistic multivariate regression models, mean maternal serum AFB1-lysine adduct concentrations were significantly associated with SGA (OR: 1.13; 95% CI: 1.00, 1.27; P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Findings from this study suggest a small but significant association between serum AFB1-lysine adduct concentrations in pregnant women and SGA. Maternal aflatoxin exposure was not associated with other birth outcomes. These results highlight the need for future research on a threshold level of aflatoxin exposure needed to produce detectable adverse birth outcomes. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03312049.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrick Webb
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gerald Shively
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Beatrice L Rogers
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kedar Baral
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Patan Academy of Health Sciences, Lalitpur, Nepal
| | - Dale Davis
- Helen Keller International-Nepal, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | | | | | - Robin Shrestha
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jia-Sheng Wang
- Department of Environmental Health Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Shibani Ghosh
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Lauer JM, Duggan CP, Ausman LM, Griffiths JK, Webb P, Wang J, Xue KS, Agaba E, Nshakira N, Ghosh S. Maternal aflatoxin exposure during pregnancy and adverse birth outcomes in Uganda. MATERNAL & CHILD NUTRITION 2019; 15:e12701. [PMID: 30242967 PMCID: PMC6519241 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.12701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2018] [Revised: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 09/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Aflatoxins are toxic metabolites of Aspergillus moulds and are widespread in the food supply, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Both in utero and infant exposure to aflatoxin B1 (AFB1 ) have been linked to poor child growth and development. The objective of this prospective cohort study was to investigate the association between maternal aflatoxin exposure during pregnancy and adverse birth outcomes, primarily lower birth weight, in a sample of 220 mother-infant pairs in Mukono district, Uganda. Maternal aflatoxin exposure was assessed by measuring the serum concentration of AFB1 -lysine (AFB-Lys) adduct at 17.8 ± 3.5 (mean ± SD)-week gestation using high-performance liquid chromatography. Anthropometry and birth outcome characteristics were obtained within 48 hr of delivery. Associations between maternal aflatoxin exposure and birth outcomes were assessed using multivariable linear regression models adjusted for confounding factors. Median maternal AFB-Lys level was 5.83 pg/mg albumin (range: 0.71-95.60 pg/mg albumin, interquartile range: 3.53-9.62 pg/mg albumin). In adjusted linear regression models, elevations in maternal AFB-Lys levels were significantly associated with lower weight (adj-β: 0.07; 95% CI: -0.13, -0.003; p = 0.040), lower weight-for-age z-score (adj-β: -0.16; 95% CI: -0.30, -0.01; p = 0.037), smaller head circumference (adj-β: -0.26; 95% CI: -0.49, -0.02; p = 0.035), and lower head circumference-for-age z-score (adj-β: -0.23; 95% CI: -0.43, -0.03; p = 0.023) in infants at birth. Overall, our data suggest an association between maternal aflatoxin exposure during pregnancy and adverse birth outcomes, particularly lower birth weight and smaller head circumference, but further research is warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline M. Lauer
- Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and PolicyTufts UniversityBostonMassachusetts
- USAID Feed the Future Innovation Lab for NutritionTufts UniversityBostonMassachusetts
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and NutritionBoston Children's HospitalBostonMassachusetts
| | - Christopher P. Duggan
- USAID Feed the Future Innovation Lab for NutritionTufts UniversityBostonMassachusetts
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and NutritionBoston Children's HospitalBostonMassachusetts
- Department of NutritionHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public HealthBostonMassachusetts
| | - Lynne M. Ausman
- Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and PolicyTufts UniversityBostonMassachusetts
- USAID Feed the Future Innovation Lab for NutritionTufts UniversityBostonMassachusetts
| | - Jeffrey K. Griffiths
- Department of Public Health and Community MedicineTufts University School of MedicineBostonMassachusetts
- Cummings School of Veterinary MedicineTufts UniversityGraftonMassachusetts
- School of EngineeringMedfordMassachusetts
| | - Patrick Webb
- Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and PolicyTufts UniversityBostonMassachusetts
- USAID Feed the Future Innovation Lab for NutritionTufts UniversityBostonMassachusetts
| | - Jia‐Sheng Wang
- Department of Environmental Health ScienceUniversity of GeorgiaAthensGeorgia
| | - Kathy S. Xue
- Department of Environmental Health ScienceUniversity of GeorgiaAthensGeorgia
| | - Edgar Agaba
- USAID Feed the Future Innovation Lab for NutritionTufts UniversityBostonMassachusetts
| | - Nathan Nshakira
- Department of Health ScienceUganda Christian UniversityMukonoUganda
| | - Shibani Ghosh
- Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and PolicyTufts UniversityBostonMassachusetts
- USAID Feed the Future Innovation Lab for NutritionTufts UniversityBostonMassachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Vidal A, Mengelers M, Yang S, De Saeger S, De Boevre M. Mycotoxin Biomarkers of Exposure: A Comprehensive Review. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf 2018; 17:1127-1155. [DOI: 10.1111/1541-4337.12367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Arnau Vidal
- Laboratory of Food Analysis, Dept. of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Ghent Univ.; Ghent Belgium
| | - Marcel Mengelers
- Dept. of Food Safety; National Inst. of Public Health and the Environment; Bilthoven The Netherlands
| | - Shupeng Yang
- Inst. of Apicultural Research, Chinese Acad. of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bee Products for Quality and Safety Control, Laboratory of Risk Assessment for Quality and Safety of Bee Products; Bee Product Quality Supervision and Testing Center; Ministry of Agriculture Beijing 100093 People's Republic of China
| | - Sarah De Saeger
- Laboratory of Food Analysis, Dept. of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Ghent Univ.; Ghent Belgium
| | - Marthe De Boevre
- Laboratory of Food Analysis, Dept. of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Ghent Univ.; Ghent Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Sriwattanapong K, Slocum SL, Chawanthayatham S, Fedeles BI, Egner PA, Groopman JD, Satayavivad J, Croy RG, Essigmann JM. Editor's Highlight: Pregnancy Alters Aflatoxin B1 Metabolism and Increases DNA Damage in Mouse Liver. Toxicol Sci 2017; 160:173-179. [PMID: 28973694 PMCID: PMC5837592 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfx171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy is a complex physiological state, in which the metabolism of endogenous as well as exogenous agents is ostensibly altered. One exogenous agent of concern is the hepatocarcinogen aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), a foodborne fungal toxin, that requires phase I metabolic oxidation for conversion to its toxic and carcinogenic form, the AFB1-8,9-exo-epoxide. The epoxide interacts with cellular targets causing toxicity and cell death; these targets include the covalent modification of DNA leading to mutations that can initiate malignant transformation. The main detoxification pathway of the AFB1-epoxide involves phase II metabolic enzymes including the glutathione-S-transferase (GST) family. Pregnancy can modulate both phase I and II metabolism and alter the biological potency of AFB1. The present work investigated the impact of pregnancy on AFB1 exposure in mice. A single IP dose of 6 mg/kg AFB1 was administered to pregnant C57BL/6 J mice at gestation day 14 and matched non-pregnant controls. Pregnant mice accumulated 2-fold higher AFB1-N7-guanine DNA adducts in the liver when compared with nonpregnant controls 6 h post-exposure. Enhanced DNA adduct formation in pregnant animals paralleled elevated hepatic protein expression of mouse CYP1A2 and mouse homologs of human CYP3A4, phase I enzymes capable of bioactivating AFB1. Although phase II enzymes GSTA1/2 showed decreased protein expression, GSTA3, the primary enzymatic protection against the AFB1-epoxide, was unaffected at the protein level. Taken together, our results reveal that pregnancy may constitute a critical window of susceptibility for maternal health, and provide insight into the biochemical factors that could explain the underlying risks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kanokwan Sriwattanapong
- Departments of Biological Engineering and Chemistry, and Center for
Environmental Health Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge,
Massachusetts 02139
- Graduate Program in Environmental Toxicology, Chulabhorn Graduate Institute,
Bangkok 10210, Thailand
| | - Stephen L. Slocum
- Departments of Biological Engineering and Chemistry, and Center for
Environmental Health Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge,
Massachusetts 02139
| | - Supawadee Chawanthayatham
- Departments of Biological Engineering and Chemistry, and Center for
Environmental Health Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge,
Massachusetts 02139
| | - Bogdan I. Fedeles
- Departments of Biological Engineering and Chemistry, and Center for
Environmental Health Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge,
Massachusetts 02139
| | - Patricia A. Egner
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg
School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - John D. Groopman
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg
School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Jutamaad Satayavivad
- Graduate Program in Environmental Toxicology, Chulabhorn Graduate Institute,
Bangkok 10210, Thailand
| | - Robert G. Croy
- Departments of Biological Engineering and Chemistry, and Center for
Environmental Health Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge,
Massachusetts 02139
| | - John M. Essigmann
- Departments of Biological Engineering and Chemistry, and Center for
Environmental Health Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge,
Massachusetts 02139
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Smith LE, Prendergast AJ, Turner PC, Humphrey JH, Stoltzfus RJ. Aflatoxin Exposure During Pregnancy, Maternal Anemia, and Adverse Birth Outcomes. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2017; 96:770-776. [PMID: 28500823 PMCID: PMC5392618 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.16-0730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnant women and their developing fetuses are vulnerable to multiple environmental insults, including exposure to aflatoxin, a mycotoxin that may contaminate as much as 25% of the world food supply. We reviewed and integrated findings from studies of aflatoxin exposure during pregnancy and evaluated potential links to adverse pregnancy outcomes. We identified 27 studies (10 human cross-sectional studies and 17 animal studies) assessing the relationship between aflatoxin exposure and adverse birth outcomes or anemia. Findings suggest that aflatoxin exposure during pregnancy may impair fetal growth. Only one human study investigated aflatoxin exposure and prematurity, and no studies investigated its relationship with pregnancy loss, but animal studies suggest aflatoxin exposure may increase risk for prematurity and pregnancy loss. The fetus could be affected by maternal aflatoxin exposure through direct toxicity as well as indirect toxicity, via maternal systemic inflammation, impaired placental growth, or elevation of placental cytokines. The cytotoxic and systemic effects of aflatoxin could plausibly mediate maternal anemia, intrauterine growth restriction, fetal loss, and preterm birth. Given the widespread exposure to this toxin in developing countries, longitudinal studies in pregnant women are needed to provide stronger evidence for the role of aflatoxin in adverse pregnancy outcomes, and to explore biological mechanisms. Potential pathways for intervention to reduce aflatoxin exposure are urgently needed, and this might reduce the global burden of stillbirth, preterm birth, and low birthweight.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Smith
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York.,Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Andrew J Prendergast
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland.,Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom.,Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Paul C Turner
- Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland
| | - Jean H Humphrey
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland.,Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Smith LE, Mbuya MNN, Prendergast AJ, Turner PC, Ruboko S, Humphrey JH, Nelson RJ, Chigumira A, Kembo G, Stoltzfus RJ. Determinants of recent aflatoxin exposure among pregnant women in rural Zimbabwe. Mol Nutr Food Res 2017; 61. [PMID: 28544789 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.201601049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2016] [Revised: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
SCOPE Aflatoxins (AFs) are toxic secondary metabolites of Aspergillus species that contaminate staple foods such as maize and groundnuts. AF exposure during pregnancy has been associated with adverse birth outcomes in limited-scale surveys in sub-Saharan Africa. The objective of this study was to describe the determinants of AF exposure, using urinary aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) biomarkers and data generated by the Sanitation Hygiene Infant Nutrition Efficacy (SHINE) trial for rural Zimbabwean women in early pregnancy. Sanitation Hygiene Infant Nutrition Efficacy is a large, cluster-randomized community-based trial in Zimbabwe designed to investigate the independent and combined effects of nutrition and hygiene interventions on early child growth. METHODS AND RESULTS Urine samples collected from 1580 pregnant women in rural Zimbabwe at median gestational age of 13.9 wk were measured for AFM1. AFM1 was detected in 30% of samples (median of exposed, 162 pg AFM1/mg creatinine; range 30-6046 pg AFM1/mg). In multivariable ordinal logistic models, geographical location (p<0.001), seasonality (p < 0.001) and dietary practices (p = 0.011) were significant predictors of urinary AFM1. CONCLUSION This is the largest AF biomarker survey conducted in Zimbabwe, and demonstrated frequent exposure in pregnant women with clear temporal and spatial variability in AF biomarker levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Smith
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA.,Research Department, Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Mduduzi N N Mbuya
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA.,Research Department, Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Andrew J Prendergast
- Research Department, Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Paul C Turner
- Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Sandra Ruboko
- Research Department, Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Jean H Humphrey
- Research Department, Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Rebecca J Nelson
- School of Integrative Plant Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Smith LE, Prendergast AJ, Turner PC, Mbuya MNN, Mutasa K, Kembo G, Stoltzfus RJ. The Potential Role of Mycotoxins as a Contributor to Stunting in the SHINE Trial. Clin Infect Dis 2015; 61 Suppl 7:S733-7. [PMID: 26602301 PMCID: PMC4657594 DOI: 10.1093/cid/civ849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Children in developing countries experience multiple exposures that are harmful to their growth and development. An emerging concern is frequent exposure to mycotoxins that contaminate a wide range of staple foods, including maize and groundnuts. Three mycotoxins are suspected to contribute to poor child health and development: aflatoxin, fumonisin, and deoxynivalenol. We summarize the evidence that mycotoxin exposure is associated with stunting, and propose that the causal pathway may be through environmental enteric dysfunction (EED) and disturbance of the insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) axis. The objectives of this substudy are to assess the relationship between agricultural and harvest practices and mycotoxin exposure; to evaluate associations between mycotoxin exposure and child stunting; and to investigate EED as a potential pathway linking mycotoxin exposure to child stunting, to inform potential areas for intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura E. Smith
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
| | - Andrew J. Prendergast
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, United Kingdom
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Paul C. Turner
- Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park
| | - Mduduzi N. N. Mbuya
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Kuda Mutasa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
|
33
|
Supriya C, Reddy PS. Prenatal exposure to aflatoxin B1: developmental, behavioral, and reproductive alterations in male rats. THE SCIENCE OF NATURE - NATURWISSENSCHAFTEN 2015; 102:26. [PMID: 25911313 DOI: 10.1007/s00114-015-1274-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2014] [Revised: 03/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/25/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that aflatoxin B1 (AfB1) inhibits androgen biosynthesis as a result of its ability to form a high-affinity complex with the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein. The results of the present study demonstrate the postnatal effects of in utero exposure to AfB1 in the rat. Pregnant Wistar rats were given 10, 20, or 50 μg AfB1/kg body weight daily from gestation day (GD) 12 to GD 19. At parturition, newborns were observed for clinical signs and survival. All animals were born alive and initially appeared to be active. Male pups from control and AfB1-exposed animals were weaned and maintained up to postnatal day (PD) 100. Litter size, birth weight, sex ratio, survival rate, and crown-rump length of the pups were significantly decreased in AfB1-exposed rats when compared to controls. Elapsed time (days) for testes to descend into the scrotal sac was significantly delayed in experimental pups when compared to control pups. Behavioral observations such as cliff avoidance, negative geotaxis, surface rightening activity, ascending wire mesh, open field behavior, and exploratory and locomotory activities were significantly impaired in experimental pups. Body weights and the indices of testis, cauda epididymis, prostate, seminal vesicles, and liver were significantly reduced on PD 100 in male rats exposed to AfB1 during embryonic development when compared with controls. Significant reduction in the testicular daily sperm production, epididymal sperm count, and number of viable, motile, and hypo-osmotic tail coiled sperm was observed in experimental rats. The levels of serum testosterone and activity levels of testicular hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases were significantly decreased in a dose-dependent manner with a significant increase in the serum follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone in experimental rats. Deterioration in the testicular and cauda epididymal architecture was observed in experimental rats. The results of fertility studies revealed a significant decrease in the mating index in experimental rats with an increase in the pre- and post-implantation losses in rats mated with prenatal AfB1-exposed males, indicating poor male reproductive performance. These results indicate that in utero exposure to AfB1 severely compromised postnatal development of neonatal rats, and caused a delay in testes descent and reduction in steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis that were accomplished by suppressed reproduction at adulthood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ch Supriya
- Department of Biotechnology, Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati, 517502, India
| | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Castelino JM, Dominguez-Salas P, Routledge MN, Prentice AM, Moore SE, Hennig BJ, Wild CP, Gong YY. Seasonal and gestation stage associated differences in aflatoxin exposure in pregnant Gambian women. Trop Med Int Health 2014; 19:348-354. [PMID: 24372685 PMCID: PMC4034353 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.12250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Aflatoxin is known to cross the placental barrier and exposures in utero could influence genomic programming, foetal growth and development, resulting in long-term health effects. We aimed to determine aflatoxin exposure in Gambian women at two stages of pregnancy and during the rainy and dry seasons. METHODS We examined aflatoxin exposure in pregnant Gambian women at early (<16 weeks) and later (16 weeks onward) stages of pregnancy and at different times of the year, during the rainy (June to October 2009) or dry (November to May 2010) season, using aflatoxin-albumin adducts (AF-alb). RESULTS Mean AF-alb was higher during the dry season than in the rainy season, in both early and later pregnancy although the difference was strongest in later pregnancy. There was a modest increase in AF-alb in later than early pregnancy (geometric mean 41.8 vs. 34.5 pg/mg, P < 0.05), but this was restricted to the dry season when exposures were generally higher. CONCLUSIONS The study confirmed that Gambian pregnant women were exposed to aflatoxin throughout the pregnancy, with higher levels in the dry season. There was some evidence in the dry season that women in later pregnancy had higher AF-alb levels than those in earlier pregnancy. Further research on the effects of exposure to this potent mutagen and carcinogen throughout pregnancy, including the epigenetic modification of foetal gene expression and impact on pre- and post-natal growth and development, are merited.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jovita M. Castelino
- Division of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Paula Dominguez-Salas
- MRC International Nutrition Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- MRC Keneba, The Gambia
| | | | - Andrew M. Prentice
- MRC International Nutrition Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Sophie E. Moore
- MRC International Nutrition Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Branwen J. Hennig
- MRC International Nutrition Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Yun Yun Gong
- Division of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Institute for Global Food Security, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Turner PC. The molecular epidemiology of chronic aflatoxin driven impaired child growth. SCIENTIFICA 2013; 2013:152879. [PMID: 24455429 PMCID: PMC3881689 DOI: 10.1155/2013/152879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2013] [Accepted: 10/27/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Aflatoxins are toxic secondary fungal metabolites that contaminate dietary staples in tropical regions; chronic high levels of exposure are common for many of the poorest populations. Observations in animals indicate that growth and/or food utilization are adversely affected by aflatoxins. This review highlights the development of validated exposure biomarkers and their use here to assess the role of aflatoxins in early life growth retardation. Aflatoxin exposure occurs in utero and continues in early infancy as weaning foods are introduced. Using aflatoxin-albumin exposure biomarkers, five major studies clearly demonstrate strong dose response relationships between exposure in utero and/or early infancy and growth retardation, identified by reduced birth weight and/or low HAZ and WAZ scores. The epidemiological studies include cross-sectional and longitudinal surveys, though aflatoxin reduction intervention studies are now required to further support these data and guide sustainable options to reduce the burden of exposure. The use of aflatoxin exposure biomarkers was essential in understanding the observational data reviewed and will likely be a critical monitor of the effectiveness of interventions to restrict aflatoxin exposure. Given that an estimated 4.5 billion individuals live in regions at risk of dietary contamination the public health concern cannot be over stated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Craig Turner
- Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Abstract
A study was undertaken to determine whether breast-milk of mothers from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) contained aflatoxins. One hundred and forty lactating mothers, 55 who had delivered premature infants (<2500 g, </=37 wk gestational age) and 85 who had full-term infants, agreed to participate in the study. Breast-milk was collected during regular feeding of infants in the special care baby unit and postnatal wards using an electric breast pump and ten ml of milk was siphoned off into a zinc-free plastic container for analysis. Aflatoxin M(1) concentration in the breast-milk samples was measured by HPLC. Samples were collected between January 1999 and December 2000. Approximately 66% of the mothers were expatriates and 34% were UAE nationals. Babies' weight, postnatal age, sex, birthweight and gestational age, and mothers' nationality, age and parity were recorded. Overall, 92% of the breast-milk samples contained aflatoxin M(1). Both univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis failed to show significant correlation between aflatoxin M(1) and gestational age, postnatal age, gender, nationality and clinical condition. Levels of lactose, protein and lipids did not correlate significantly with levels of aflatoxin M(1). The public should be educated about storing food and the hazards of aflatoxin ingestion to reduce the unacceptably frequent presence of aflatoxin in breast-milk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yousef M Abdulrazzaq
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Huuskonen P, Myllynen P, Storvik M, Pasanen M. The effects of aflatoxin B1 on transporters and steroid metabolizing enzymes in JEG-3 cells. Toxicol Lett 2013; 218:200-6. [PMID: 23402939 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2013.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2012] [Revised: 01/17/2013] [Accepted: 01/20/2013] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Effects of 96 h aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) exposure at concentrations from 0.2 μM to 6 μM on the mRNA and protein expression levels of the following transporters ABCB1/B4, ABCC1, ABCC2, ABCG2, OAT4 and the mRNA expression of steroid-metabolizing enzymes CYP1A1, CYP19A1, HSD3B1 and HSD17B1, and conjugating enzyme family UGT1A were evaluated in trophoblastic JEG-3 cells. Statistically significant dose-dependent five-fold increases in the expression levels with ABCC2 and OAT4 were recorded at 2 and 6μM AFB1. Protein expression of ABCG2 was decreased dose-dependently with 0.2-6 μM AFB1. With the other transporters, only a trend of increased expression was observed. Analogously, a three-fold increase in the expressions of CYP19A1, HSD3B1, HSD17B1 and UGT1A-family were observed at 0.3 μM AFB1. When an inhibitor of CYP19A1, finrozole, was dosed simultaneously with AFB1, no increases in the transcripts of transporters or steroid hydroxylases or CYP19A1 were observed. This delayed increase in the expression levels - only after 96h incubations - may indicate that the response is due to a secondary metabolite of AFB1 or other secondary controlling cascades rather than the parent compound itself. In conclusion, AFB1 affected the placental steroid synthesizing, metabolizing and conjugating enzymes as well as the expression levels of several transporter proteins in JEG-3 cells. These alterations may lead to anomalies in the foetoplacental hormonal homeostasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pasi Huuskonen
- University of Eastern Finland, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Pharmacy, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Smith LE, Stoltzfus RJ, Prendergast A. Food chain mycotoxin exposure, gut health, and impaired growth: a conceptual framework. Adv Nutr 2012; 3:526-31. [PMID: 22797988 PMCID: PMC3649721 DOI: 10.3945/an.112.002188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Childhood stunting is an important and intractable public health problem that underlies ~20% of deaths among children aged <5 y in developing countries. Environmental enteropathy (EE), a subclinical condition of the small intestine characterized by reduced absorptive capacity and increased intestinal permeability, is almost universal among children in developing countries and may mediate stunting. However, the etiology of EE is poorly understood. Mycotoxins are metabolites of fungi that frequently contaminate the staple foods of children living in developing countries. We review evidence from human and animal studies that exposure to mycotoxins, particularly aflatoxin (AF), fumonisin (FUM), and deoxynivaenol (DON), may impair child growth. Although these toxins have distinct actions, they all mediate intestinal damage through: 1) inhibition of protein synthesis (AF, DON); 2) an increase in systemic proinflammatory cytokines (DON); and 3) inhibition of ceramide synthase (FUM). The intestinal pathology that arises from mycotoxin exposure is very similar to that of EE. We propose that future studies should address the role of mycotoxins in the pathogenesis of EE and evaluate interventions to limit mycotoxin exposure and reduce childhood stunting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura E. Smith
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY; Queen Mary University of London, UK; and,To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
| | - Rebecca J. Stoltzfus
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY; Queen Mary University of London, UK; and
| | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
The role of biomarkers in evaluating human health concerns from fungal contaminants in food. Nutr Res Rev 2012; 25:162-79. [PMID: 22651937 DOI: 10.1017/s095442241200008x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites that globally contaminate an estimated 25 % of cereal crops and thus exposure is frequent in many populations. Aflatoxins, fumonisins and deoxynivalenol are amongst those mycotoxins of particular concern from a human health perspective. A number of risks to health are suggested including cancer, growth faltering, immune suppression and neural tube defects; though only the demonstrated role for aflatoxin in the aetiology of liver cancer is widely recognised. The heterogeneous distribution of mycotoxins in food restricts the usefulness of food sampling and intake estimates; instead biomarkers provide better tools for informing epidemiological investigations. Validated exposure biomarkers for aflatoxin (urinary aflatoxin M(1), aflatoxin-N7-guaunine, serum aflatoxin-albumin) were established almost 20 years ago and were critical in confirming aflatoxins as potent liver carcinogens. Validation has included demonstration of assay robustness, intake v. biomarker level, and stability of stored samples. More recently, aflatoxin exposure biomarkers are revealing concerns of growth faltering and immune suppression; importantly, they are being used to assess the effectiveness of intervention strategies. For fumonisins and deoxynivalenol these steps of development and validation have significantly advanced in recent years. Such biomarkers should better inform epidemiological studies and thus improve our understanding of their potential risk to human health.
Collapse
|
40
|
Nielsen JK, Vikström AC, Turner P, Knudsen LE. Deoxynivalenol transport across the human placental barrier. Food Chem Toxicol 2011; 49:2046-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2011.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2011] [Revised: 04/28/2011] [Accepted: 05/16/2011] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
|
41
|
Storvik M, Huuskonen P, Kyllönen T, Lehtonen S, El-Nezami H, Auriola S, Pasanen M. Aflatoxin B1 – a potential endocrine disruptor – up-regulates CYP19A1 in JEG-3 cells. Toxicol Lett 2011; 202:161-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2011.01.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2010] [Revised: 01/26/2011] [Accepted: 01/31/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
42
|
Bastaki SA, Osman N, Kochiyil J, Shafiullah M, Padmanabhan R, Abdulrazzaq YM. Toxicokinetics of aflatoxin in pregnant mice. Int J Toxicol 2010; 29:425-31. [PMID: 20484621 DOI: 10.1177/1091581810369565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Our objective was to study the toxicokinetics of aflatoxin (AF) in pregnant mice. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) was administered intraperitoneally (IP) to groups of pregnant mice in single doses of 20 mg/kg on gestation day (GD) 13 and orally at the same gestational age. Controls received (IP and oral) a proportionate volume of solvent only. Maternal blood was collected at 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, and 150 minutes posttreatment. Their AFB1 contents were determined. Aflatoxin B1 concentrations following maternal exposure to AFB1 were highly correlated with time after exposure. The serum concentrations were predictable and the highest serum levels were seen immediately at 15 minutes in mice given AFs IP and at 30 minutes in those given it orally. The absorption was 5.0 microg/min and elimination was 3.0 microg/min. The toxicokinetics of AFB1 have been delineated. Aflatoxins are easily and rapidly absorbed both from the gastrointestinal tract (GI) tract and through the peritoneum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Salim A Bastaki
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Shuaib FMB, Jolly PE, Ehiri JE, Yatich N, Jiang Y, Funkhouser E, Person SD, Wilson C, Ellis WO, Wang JS, Williams JH. Association between birth outcomes and aflatoxin B1 biomarker blood levels in pregnant women in Kumasi, Ghana. Trop Med Int Health 2009; 15:160-7. [PMID: 20003033 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3156.2009.02435.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between birth outcomes and blood levels of aflatoxin B(1) (AFB1)-lysine adduct in pregnant women in Kumasi, Ghana. METHOD A cross-sectional study of 785 pregnant women attending antenatal clinic was conducted. Aflatoxin B(1) (AFB(1))-lysine adduct levels were determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) on blood taken after delivery. The birth outcomes considered were small for gestation age, low birthweight, preterm delivery and stillbirth. Participants were divided into quartiles based on the distribution of aflatoxin B(1)-lysine adducts in pg/mg albumin ('low': <or=2.67, 'moderate': >2.67 to <or=4.97, 'high': >4.97 to <or=11.34, 'very high': >11.34). Statistical analysis involved models that included socio-demographic variables and other potential confounders. RESULTS The average AFB(1)-lysine adduct level in maternal serum was 10.9 +/- 19.00 pg/mg albumin (range = 0.44-268.73 pg/mg). After adjusting for socio-demographic variables and potential confounding factors, participants in the highest AFB(1)-lysine quartile with 'very high' AFB(1)-lysine level (>11.34 pg/mg) were more likely to have low birthweight babies (OR, 2.09; 95% CI, 1.19-3.68), and showed a trend of increasing risk for low birthweight (P(trend) = 0.007) compared to participants in the lowest quartile. CONCLUSION This study adds to the growing body of evidence that aflatoxins may increase the risk of adverse birth outcomes. The findings have implications for targeted nutritional education of pregnant women in areas with high levels of aflatoxin contamination of foods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Faisal M B Shuaib
- Department of Epidemiology, Ryals School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Partanen HA, El-Nezami HS, Leppänen JM, Myllynen PK, Woodhouse HJ, Vähäkangas KH. Aflatoxin B1 Transfer and Metabolism in Human Placenta. Toxicol Sci 2009; 113:216-25. [DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfp257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
|
45
|
Mycotoxins and child health: the need for health risk assessment. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2008; 212:347-68. [PMID: 18805056 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2008.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2007] [Revised: 06/05/2008] [Accepted: 08/11/2008] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The occurrences of mycotoxins as food contaminants in different localities particularly in developing countries and the inevitable exposure of populations and children to these toxins with probable adverse outcomes need be scientifically and systematically assessed. Health risk assessment developed in the 1980s is separate from risk management, both with risk communication form the risk analysis framework adopted by the World Health Organization. The process contributes increasingly to policy development, public health decision making, the establishment of mycotoxin regulations and research planning. However, the exercise of the risk assessment structured approach is not simple and is faced up to lack of data, capable infrastructure facilities and need for trained personnel and resources. Furthermore, adopted methodologies need be developed focusing on child characteristics and health concerns.
Collapse
|
46
|
Weselak M, Arbuckle TE, Walker MC, Krewski D. The influence of the environment and other exogenous agents on spontaneous abortion risk. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2008; 11:221-241. [PMID: 18368554 DOI: 10.1080/10937400701873530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
It is estimated that close to 30% of all pregnancies end in spontaneous abortion. Although about 60% of spontaneous abortions are thought to be due to genetic, infectious, hormonal, and immunological factors, the role of the environment remains poorly understood. Pregnancy involves a delicate balance of hormonal and immunological functions, which may be affected by environmental substances. Many toxic substances that are persistent in the environment and accumulate in the fatty tissues may disrupt this equilibrium. This overview addresses known risk factors for spontaneous abortions and examines the role, if any, that environmental factors (chemical and physical) may play in the etiology of this adverse health outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mandy Weselak
- McLaughlin Centre for Population Health Risk Assessment, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Wangikar PB, Dwivedi P, Sinha N, Sharma AK, Telang AG. Teratogenic effects in rabbits of simultaneous exposure to ochratoxin A and aflatoxin B1 with special reference to microscopic effects. Toxicology 2005; 215:37-47. [PMID: 16054743 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2005.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2005] [Revised: 06/19/2005] [Accepted: 06/22/2005] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
To elucidate the teratogenic effects, ochratoxin A (OTA) and aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) were dissolved in corn oil and administered in combination to New Zealand White rabbits during 6-18 days of gestation orally with the dose levels of OTA+AFB1, 0.05+0.05 and 0.1+0.1mg/kg body weight. To assess pathomorphological features of the anomalies, the fetal serial sections were histologically examined. There was no mortality in any of the treated groups. Body weights and body weight gains of dams in the combined treatment groups were comparable with those of controls and individual treatments. The mean crown to rump lengths in both the combination dose groups and mean fetal weights in high dose combination group were significantly decreased. In the high dose combination, there was increase in the percent of implants resorbed and significant increase in the incidence of visceral anomalies. The combination treatment resulted in various gross, skeletal and visceral anomalies such as wrist drop, scoliosis, bent metacarpals, rudimentary ribs, cardiac defects and microphthalmia. There was a dose-related increase in the percent of litters showing the histopathological changes in the fetal tissues. The incidence of histopathological changes in the tissue sections prepared from fetal liver, kidneys, brain, heart and eyes was found increased in the high dose combination group. The comparative evaluation of the results of combination versus individual treatments revealed that certain anomalies observed in the individual treatment of OTA such as knuckling of fetlock, rudimentary tail or agenesis of tail, wavy ribs, hydrocephalus and agenesis of kidney and AFB1 as enlarged eye sockets and enlarged liver were absent in the combination treatment. However, some new manifestations such as cardiac defects and scoliosis were seen. The results of the present study indicated that in combination, OTA and AFB1 have antagonistic interaction. The presence of subtle lesions histologically due to an interference with normal development suggested that microscopic examination of the fetal tissues could provide additional, useful information to a developmental toxicity study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P B Wangikar
- Division of Pathology, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar 243122, Bareilly, UP, India.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
|
49
|
Wangikar PB, Dwivedi P, Sinha N. Effect in rats of simultaneous prenatal exposure to ochratoxin A and aflatoxin B1. I. Maternal toxicity and fetal malformations. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 71:343-51. [PMID: 15617020 DOI: 10.1002/bdrb.20021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Ochratoxin A (OA) and Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), the food borne mycotoxins are produced by several fungal species of the genera Aspergillus and Penicillium. To determine the teratogenic effects, these mycotoxins were administered orally either individually or in combination to the pregnant Wistar rats on days 6-15 of gestation. OA and AFB1 were dissolved in corn oil and different doses of OA (0.125, 0.25, 0.50, and 0.75 mg/kg), AFB1 (0.125, 0.25, 0.50, and 1.00 mg/kg), and a combination of OA+AFB1 (0.125+0.125; 0.25+0.50; 0.50+0.25 mg/kg) were given by gastric intubation to rats. During dosing period, the body weight and body weight gains significantly decreased at a higher dosage, in both individual and combined treatments. In all the combination treatments, the percent implants resorbed, fetal body weights, and crown-rump lengths were comparable to those of controls and with the individual mycotoxin treatment. The number of dead fetuses was significantly increased in the high OA combination (OA+AFB1 0.50+0.25) group as compared with the other two combinations. OA and AFB1 alone and in combination caused various gross, skeletal, and visceral anomalies. The occurrence was considerably less pronounced in fetuses of AFB1 and combination groups as compared with those of OA group fetuses. The exencephaly, incomplete closure of skull, wavy and fused ribs, agenesis of the ischium bone, and enlarged renal pelvis, recorded in OA treatment and ear abnormality and incomplete ossification of skull bones observed in AFB1 when given individually, were not seen in combination groups. However, new manifestations, such as gastroschisis and syndactyly were observed and the incidence of cardiac defects was increased in fetuses due to the combined treatment. The results of the present study indicated that there is some interaction between these mycotoxins that resulted in reduced teratogenic activity of OA in the presence of AFB1. Apparently, new manifestations observed in combination treatment points to the potential threat of teratogenicity in terms of public health hazards.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P B Wangikar
- Division of Pathology, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, India.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Abdulrazzaq YM, Osman N, Yousif ZM, Trad O. Morbidity in neonates of mothers who have ingested aflatoxins. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004; 24:145-51. [PMID: 15186543 DOI: 10.1179/027249304225013420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
This study was undertaken to assess whether aflatoxin M(1) concentrations in newborn infants correlated with those of their mothers and to determine whether the presence of aflatoxin M(1) in cord blood was associated with an increase in morbidity in the newborn. There was a strong correlation (r =0.797, p <0.0001) between mothers' and cord blood levels of aflatoxin. There was also a strong negative correlation between aflatoxin levels and birthweight (r =-0.565, p <0.001) but there was no association between aflatoxin M(1) concentration in maternal or cord blood and rates of jaundice or infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yousef M Abdulrazzaq
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, PO Box 17666, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|