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Ahmad MM, Qamar F, Saifi M, Abdin MZ. Natural inhibitors: A sustainable way to combat aflatoxins. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:993834. [PMID: 36569081 PMCID: PMC9773886 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.993834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Among a few hundred mycotoxins, aflatoxins had always posed a major threat to the world. Apart from A. flavus, A. parasiticus, and A. nomius of Aspergillus genus, which are most toxin-producing strains, several fungal bodies including Fusarium, Penicillium, and Alternaria that can biosynthesis aflatoxins. Basically, there are four different types of aflatoxins (Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), Aflatoxin B2 (AFB2), Aflatoxin G1 (AFG1), Aflatoxin G2 (AFG2)) are produced as secondary metabolites. There are certainly other types of aflatoxins found but they are the by-products of these toxins. The fungal agents generally infect the food crops during harvesting, storing, and/or transporting; making a heavy post-harvest as well as economic loss in both developed and developing countries. And while ingesting the crop products, these toxins get into the dietary system causing aflatoxicosis, liver cirrhosis, etc. Therefore, it is imperative to search for certain ways to control the spread of infections and/or production of these toxins which may also not harm the crop harvest. In this review, we are going to discuss some sustainable methods that can effectively control the spread of infection and inhibit the biosynthesis of aflatoxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malik M. Ahmad
- Department of Agriculture, Integral Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology (IIAST), Integral University, Lucknow, India
| | - Firdaus Qamar
- CTPD, Department of Biotechnology, School of Chemical and Life Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Monica Saifi
- CTPD, Department of Biotechnology, School of Chemical and Life Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Malik Zainul Abdin
- CTPD, Department of Biotechnology, School of Chemical and Life Sciences, New Delhi, India,*Correspondence: Malik Zainul Abdin,
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Kumar P, Gupta A, Mahato DK, Pandhi S, Pandey AK, Kargwal R, Mishra S, Suhag R, Sharma N, Saurabh V, Paul V, Kumar M, Selvakumar R, Gamlath S, Kamle M, Enshasy HAE, Mokhtar JA, Harakeh S. Aflatoxins in Cereals and Cereal-Based Products: Occurrence, Toxicity, Impact on Human Health, and Their Detoxification and Management Strategies. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14100687. [PMID: 36287956 PMCID: PMC9609140 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14100687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Cereals and cereal-based products are primary sources of nutrition across the world. However, contamination of these foods with aflatoxins (AFs), secondary metabolites produced by several fungal species, has raised serious concerns. AF generation in innate substrates is influenced by several parameters, including the substrate type, fungus species, moisture content, minerals, humidity, temperature, and physical injury to the kernels. Consumption of AF-contaminated cereals and cereal-based products can lead to both acute and chronic health issues related to physical and mental maturity, reproduction, and the nervous system. Therefore, the precise detection methods, detoxification, and management strategies of AFs in cereal and cereal-based products are crucial for food safety as well as consumer health. Hence, this review provides a brief overview of the occurrence, chemical characteristics, biosynthetic processes, health hazards, and detection techniques of AFs, along with a focus on detoxification and management strategies that could be implemented for food safety and security.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradeep Kumar
- Department of Botany, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226007, India
- Applied Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Forestry, North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology, Nirjuli 791109, India
- Correspondence: (P.K.); (D.K.M.)
| | - Akansha Gupta
- Department of Dairy Science and Food Technology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
- CASS Food Research Centre, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia
| | - Dipendra Kumar Mahato
- CASS Food Research Centre, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia
- Correspondence: (P.K.); (D.K.M.)
| | - Shikha Pandhi
- Department of Dairy Science and Food Technology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Arun Kumar Pandey
- MMICT&BM(HM), Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala 133207, India
| | - Raveena Kargwal
- Department of Processing and Food Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar 125004, India
| | - Sadhna Mishra
- Department of Dairy Science and Food Technology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, GLA University, Mathura 281406, India
| | - Rajat Suhag
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, Piazza Università 5, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
| | - Nitya Sharma
- Food and Bioprocess Engineering Laboratory, Centre for Rural Development and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Vivek Saurabh
- Division of Food Science and Postharvest Technology, ICAR—Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi 110012, India
| | - Veena Paul
- Department of Dairy Science and Food Technology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Manoj Kumar
- Chemical and Biochemical Processing Division, ICAR—Central Institute for Research on Cotton Technology, Mumbai 400019, India
| | - Raman Selvakumar
- Centre for Protected Cultivation Technology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa Campus, New Delhi 110012, India
| | - Shirani Gamlath
- CASS Food Research Centre, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia
| | - Madhu Kamle
- Applied Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Forestry, North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology, Nirjuli 791109, India
| | - Hesham Ali El Enshasy
- Institute of Bioproduct Development, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Skudai 81310, Malaysia
- City of Scientific Research and Technology Applications, New Burg Al Arab, Alexandria 21934, Egypt
| | - Jawahir A. Mokhtar
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Vaccines and Immunotherapy Unit, King Fahad Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Steve Harakeh
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Yousef Abdul Latif Jameel Scientific Chair of Prophetic Medicine Application, Faculty of Medicine (FM), King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
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Yang P, Lu S, Xiao W, Zheng Z, Jiang S, Jiang S, Jiang S, Cheng J, Zhang D. Activity enhancement of Trametes versicolor aflatoxin B1-degrading enzyme (TV-AFB1D) by molecular docking and site-directed mutagenesis techniques. FOOD AND BIOPRODUCTS PROCESSING 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbp.2021.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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Nobili C, De Acutis A, Reverberi M, Bello C, Leone GP, Palumbo D, Natella F, Procacci S, Zjalic S, Brunori A. Buckwheat Hull Extracts Inhibit Aspergillus flavus Growth and AFB 1 Biosynthesis. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:1997. [PMID: 31555235 PMCID: PMC6727613 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.01997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal contamination poses at risk the whole food production chain - from farm to fork - with potential negative impact on human health. So far, the insurgence of pathogens has been restrained by the use of chemical compounds, whose residues have gradually accumulated determining toxic effects in the environment. Modern innovative techniques imply the use of natural and eco-sustainable bioactive plant molecules as pathogens and pests-control agents. These may be profitably recovered in large amounts at the end of industrial milling processes. This is the case of the non-digestible hull of common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench), a natural source of polyphenols, tocopherols, phytosterols and fatty acids. We extract these compounds from the hull of buckwheat; apply them to Aspergillus flavus - aflatoxin producer - under in vitro conditions, checking their ability to inhibit fungal growth and aflatoxin biosynthesis. Moreover, a solvent free method implying the adoption of supercritical CO2 as solvent was set up to extract lipophilic molecules from the buckwheat’ hulls. Positive results in controlling fungal growth and aflatoxin biosynthesis let infer that the extracts could be further tested also under in vivo conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Massimo Reverberi
- Department for Environmental and Evolutionary Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristiano Bello
- AST Scienze della Nutrizione, Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Fausta Natella
- AST Scienze della Nutrizione, Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Rome, Italy
| | | | - Slaven Zjalic
- Department of Ecology, Aquaculture and Agriculture, University of Zadar, Zadar, Croatia
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Pandey MK, Kumar R, Pandey AK, Soni P, Gangurde SS, Sudini HK, Fountain JC, Liao B, Desmae H, Okori P, Chen X, Jiang H, Mendu V, Falalou H, Njoroge S, Mwololo J, Guo B, Zhuang W, Wang X, Liang X, Varshney RK. Mitigating Aflatoxin Contamination in Groundnut through A Combination of Genetic Resistance and Post-Harvest Management Practices. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:E315. [PMID: 31163657 PMCID: PMC6628460 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11060315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 05/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Aflatoxin is considered a "hidden poison" due to its slow and adverse effect on various biological pathways in humans, particularly among children, in whom it leads to delayed development, stunted growth, liver damage, and liver cancer. Unfortunately, the unpredictable behavior of the fungus as well as climatic conditions pose serious challenges in precise phenotyping, genetic prediction and genetic improvement, leaving the complete onus of preventing aflatoxin contamination in crops on post-harvest management. Equipping popular crop varieties with genetic resistance to aflatoxin is key to effective lowering of infection in farmer's fields. A combination of genetic resistance for in vitro seed colonization (IVSC), pre-harvest aflatoxin contamination (PAC) and aflatoxin production together with pre- and post-harvest management may provide a sustainable solution to aflatoxin contamination. In this context, modern "omics" approaches, including next-generation genomics technologies, can provide improved and decisive information and genetic solutions. Preventing contamination will not only drastically boost the consumption and trade of the crops and products across nations/regions, but more importantly, stave off deleterious health problems among consumers across the globe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manish K Pandey
- International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Hyderabad 502324, India.
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Hyderabad 502324, India.
| | - Arun K Pandey
- International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Hyderabad 502324, India.
| | - Pooja Soni
- International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Hyderabad 502324, India.
| | - Sunil S Gangurde
- International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Hyderabad 502324, India.
| | - Hari K Sudini
- International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Hyderabad 502324, India.
| | - Jake C Fountain
- Crop Protection and Management Research Unit, United State Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS), Tifton, GA 31793, USA.
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of Georgia, Tifton, GA 31793, USA.
| | - Boshou Liao
- Oil Crops Research Institute (OCRI) of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Wuhan 430062, China.
| | - Haile Desmae
- International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Bamako BP 320, Mali.
| | - Patrick Okori
- International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Lilongwe PB 1096, Malawi.
| | - Xiaoping Chen
- Crops Research Institute (CRI) of Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences (GAAS), Guangzhou 510640, China.
| | - Huifang Jiang
- Oil Crops Research Institute (OCRI) of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Wuhan 430062, China.
| | - Venugopal Mendu
- Department of Plant and Soil Science, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA.
| | - Hamidou Falalou
- International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Niamey BP 12404, Niger.
| | - Samuel Njoroge
- International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Lilongwe PB 1096, Malawi.
| | - James Mwololo
- International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Lilongwe PB 1096, Malawi.
| | - Baozhu Guo
- Crop Protection and Management Research Unit, United State Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS), Tifton, GA 31793, USA.
| | - Weijian Zhuang
- Institute of Oil Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China.
| | - Xingjun Wang
- Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250108, China.
| | - Xuanqiang Liang
- Crops Research Institute (CRI) of Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences (GAAS), Guangzhou 510640, China.
| | - Rajeev K Varshney
- International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Hyderabad 502324, India.
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6
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Bhatnagar D, Rajasekaran K, Gilbert M, Cary J, Magan N. Advances in molecular and genomic research to safeguard food and feed supply from aflatoxin contamination. WORLD MYCOTOXIN J 2018. [DOI: 10.3920/wmj2017.2283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Worldwide recognition that aflatoxin contamination of agricultural commodities by the fungus Aspergillus flavus is a global problem has significantly benefitted from global collaboration for understanding the contaminating fungus, as well as for developing and implementing solutions against the contamination. The effort to address this serious food and feed safety issue has led to a detailed understanding of the taxonomy, ecology, physiology, genomics and evolution of A. flavus, as well as strategies to reduce or control pre-harvest aflatoxin contamination, including (1) biological control, using atoxigenic aspergilli, (2) proteomic and genomic analyses for identifying resistance factors in maize as potential breeding markers to enable development of resistant maize lines, and (3) enhancing host-resistance by bioengineering of susceptible crops, such as cotton, maize, peanut and tree nuts. A post-harvest measure to prevent the occurrence of aflatoxin contamination in storage is also an important component for reducing exposure of populations worldwide to aflatoxins in food and feed supplies. The effect of environmental changes on aflatoxin contamination levels has recently become an important aspect for study to anticipate future contamination levels. The ability of A. flavus to produce dozens of secondary metabolites, in addition to aflatoxins, has created a new avenue of research for understanding the role these metabolites play in the survival and biodiversity of this fungus. The understanding of A. flavus, the aflatoxin contamination problem, and control measures to prevent the contamination has become a unique example for an integrated approach to safeguard global food and feed safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- D. Bhatnagar
- US Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, 1100 Robert E. Lee Boulevard, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
| | - K. Rajasekaran
- US Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, 1100 Robert E. Lee Boulevard, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
| | - M. Gilbert
- US Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, 1100 Robert E. Lee Boulevard, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
| | - J.W. Cary
- US Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, 1100 Robert E. Lee Boulevard, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
| | - N. Magan
- Applied Mycology Group, Cranfield University, MK45 4DT, Cranfield, United Kingdom
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Hawkins LK, Warburton ML, Tang J, Tomashek J, Alves Oliveira D, Ogunola OF, Smith JS, Williams WP. Survey of Candidate Genes for Maize Resistance to Infection by Aspergillus flavus and/or Aflatoxin Contamination. Toxins (Basel) 2018; 10:E61. [PMID: 29385107 PMCID: PMC5848162 DOI: 10.3390/toxins10020061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Revised: 01/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Many projects have identified candidate genes for resistance to aflatoxin accumulation or Aspergillus flavus infection and growth in maize using genetic mapping, genomics, transcriptomics and/or proteomics studies. However, only a small percentage of these candidates have been validated in field conditions, and their relative contribution to resistance, if any, is unknown. This study presents a consolidated list of candidate genes identified in past studies or in-house studies, with descriptive data including genetic location, gene annotation, known protein identifiers, and associated pathway information, if known. A candidate gene pipeline to test the phenotypic effect of any maize DNA sequence on aflatoxin accumulation resistance was used in this study to determine any measurable effect on polymorphisms within or linked to the candidate gene sequences, and the results are published here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leigh K Hawkins
- USDA ARS Corn Host Plant Resistance Research Unit, Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA.
| | - Marilyn L Warburton
- USDA ARS Corn Host Plant Resistance Research Unit, Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA.
| | - Juliet Tang
- USDA FS Durability and Wood Protection Research Unit, Starkville, MS 39759, USA.
| | - John Tomashek
- Integrated Micro-Chromatography Systems LLC, Irmo, SC 29063, USA.
| | - Dafne Alves Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology and Plant Pathology, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39762 USA.
| | - Oluwaseun F Ogunola
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39762, USA.
| | - J Spencer Smith
- USDA ARS Corn Host Plant Resistance Research Unit, Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA.
| | - W Paul Williams
- USDA ARS Corn Host Plant Resistance Research Unit, Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA.
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8
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Shu X, Livingston DP, Franks RG, Boston RS, Woloshuk CP, Payne GA. Tissue-specific gene expression in maize seeds during colonization by Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium verticillioides. MOLECULAR PLANT PATHOLOGY 2015; 16:662-74. [PMID: 25469958 PMCID: PMC6638326 DOI: 10.1111/mpp.12224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium verticillioides are fungal pathogens that colonize maize kernels and produce the harmful mycotoxins aflatoxin and fumonisin, respectively. Management practice based on potential host resistance to reduce contamination by these mycotoxins has proven difficult, resulting in the need for a better understanding of the infection process by these fungi and the response of maize seeds to infection. In this study, we followed the colonization of seeds by histological methods and the transcriptional changes of two maize defence-related genes in specific seed tissues by RNA in situ hybridization. Maize kernels were inoculated with either A. flavus or F. verticillioides 21-22 days after pollination, and harvested at 4, 12, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 h post-inoculation. The fungi colonized all tissues of maize seed, but differed in their interactions with aleurone and germ tissues. RNA in situ hybridization showed the induction of the maize pathogenesis-related protein, maize seed (PRms) gene in the aleurone and scutellum on infection by either fungus. Transcripts of the maize sucrose synthase-encoding gene, shrunken-1 (Sh1), were observed in the embryo of non-infected kernels, but were induced on infection by each fungus in the aleurone and scutellum. By comparing histological and RNA in situ hybridization results from adjacent serial sections, we found that the transcripts of these two genes accumulated in tissue prior to the arrival of the advancing pathogens in the seeds. A knowledge of the patterns of colonization and tissue-specific gene expression in response to these fungi will be helpful in the development of resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomei Shu
- Department of Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695-7567, USA
| | - David P Livingston
- Department of Crop Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Robert G Franks
- Department of Plant & Microbial Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Rebecca S Boston
- Department of Plant & Microbial Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Charles P Woloshuk
- Department of Botany and Plant Pathology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Gary A Payne
- Department of Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695-7567, USA
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Bhatnagar-Mathur P, Sunkara S, Bhatnagar-Panwar M, Waliyar F, Sharma KK. Biotechnological advances for combating Aspergillus flavus and aflatoxin contamination in crops. PLANT SCIENCE : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL PLANT BIOLOGY 2015; 234:119-132. [PMID: 25804815 DOI: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2015.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2014] [Revised: 02/17/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Aflatoxins are toxic, carcinogenic, mutagenic, teratogenic and immunosuppressive byproducts of Aspergillus spp. that contaminate a wide range of crops such as maize, peanut, and cotton. Aflatoxin not only affects crop production but renders the produce unfit for consumption and harmful to human and livestock health, with stringent threshold limits of acceptability. In many crops, breeding for resistance is not a reliable option because of the limited availability of genotypes with durable resistance to Aspergillus. Understanding the fungal/crop/environment interactions involved in aflatoxin contamination is therefore essential in designing measures for its prevention and control. For a sustainable solution to aflatoxin contamination, research must be focused on identifying and improving knowledge of host-plant resistance factors to aflatoxin accumulation. Current advances in genetic transformation, proteomics, RNAi technology, and marker-assisted selection offer great potential in minimizing pre-harvest aflatoxin contamination in cultivated crop species. Moreover, developing effective phenotyping strategies for transgenic as well as precision breeding of resistance genes into commercial varieties is critical. While appropriate storage practices can generally minimize post-harvest aflatoxin contamination in crops, the use of biotechnology to interrupt the probability of pre-harvest infection and contamination has the potential to provide sustainable solution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Bhatnagar-Mathur
- Genetic Transformation Laboratory, International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Patancheru 502324, Telangana, India.
| | - Sowmini Sunkara
- Genetic Transformation Laboratory, International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Patancheru 502324, Telangana, India
| | - Madhurima Bhatnagar-Panwar
- Genetic Transformation Laboratory, International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Patancheru 502324, Telangana, India
| | - Farid Waliyar
- Genetic Transformation Laboratory, International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Patancheru 502324, Telangana, India
| | - Kiran Kumar Sharma
- Genetic Transformation Laboratory, International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Patancheru 502324, Telangana, India
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10
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Williams W, Krakowsky M, Scully B, Brown R, Menkir A, Warburton M, Windham G. Identifying and developing maize germplasm with resistance to accumulation of aflatoxins. WORLD MYCOTOXIN J 2015. [DOI: 10.3920/wmj2014.1751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Efforts to identify maize germplasm with resistance to Aspergillus flavus infection and subsequent accumulation of aflatoxins were initiated by the US Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service at several locations in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Research units at four locations in the south-eastern USA are currently engaged in identification and development of maize germplasm with resistance to A. flavus infection and accumulation of aflatoxins. The Corn Host Plant Resistance Research Unit, Mississippi State, MS, developed procedures for screening germplasm for resistance to A. flavus infection and accumulation of aflatoxins. Mp313E, released in 1990, was the first line released as a source of resistance to A. flavus infection. Subsequently, germplasm lines Mp420, Mp715, Mp717, Mp718, and Mp719 were released as additional sources of resistance. Quantitative trait loci associated with resistance have also been identified in four bi-parental populations. The Crop Protection and Management Research Unit and Crop Genetics and Breeding Research Unit, Tifton, GA, created a breeding population GT-MAS:gk. GT601, GT602, and GT603 were developed from GT-MAS:gk. The Food and Feed Safety Research Unit, New Orleans, LA, in collaboration with the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture used a kernel screening assay to screen germplasm and develop six germplasm lines with resistance to aflatoxins. The Plant Science Research Unit, Raleigh, NC, through the Germplasm Enhancement of Maize (GEM) Project provides to co-operators diverse germplasm that is a valuable source of resistance to A. flavus infection and accumulation of aflatoxins in maize.
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Affiliation(s)
- W.P. Williams
- USDA-ARS, Corn Host Plant Resistance Research Unit, Mississippi State, MS 39762-9555, USA
| | - M.D. Krakowsky
- USDA-ARS, Plant Science Research Unit, North Carolina State University, 1236 Williams Hall, Raleigh, NC 27695-7620, USA
| | - B.T. Scully
- USDA-ARS, Corn Protection and Management Research Unit, 2747 Davis Rd., Tifton, GA 31793, USA
| | - R.L. Brown
- USDA-ARS, Food and Feed Safety Research Unit, Southern Regional Research Center, 1100 Robert E. Lee Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
| | - A. Menkir
- International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, Oyo Rd., PMB 5320, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - M.L. Warburton
- USDA-ARS, Corn Host Plant Resistance Research Unit, Mississippi State, MS 39762-9555, USA
| | - G.L. Windham
- USDA-ARS, Corn Host Plant Resistance Research Unit, Mississippi State, MS 39762-9555, USA
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Chen ZY, Rajasekaran K, Brown RL, Sayler RJ, Bhatnagar D. Discovery and confirmation of genes/proteins associated with maize aflatoxin resistance. WORLD MYCOTOXIN J 2015. [DOI: 10.3920/wmj2014.1732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the major crops susceptible to Aspergillus flavus infection and subsequent aflatoxin contamination. Many earlier studies indicated the roles of kernel proteins, especially constitutively expressed proteins, in maize resistance to A. flavus infection and aflatoxin production. In this review, we examined the past and current efforts in identifying maize genes and proteins from kernel, rachis, and silk tissues that may play an important role in resistance to A. flavus infection and aflatoxin contamination, as well as the efforts in determining the importance or involvement of them in maize resistance through biochemical, molecular and genetics studies. Through these studies, we gained a better understanding of host resistance mechanism: resistant lines appear to either express some stress-related and antifungal proteins at higher levels in endosperm, embryo, rachis and silk tissues before A. flavus infection or induce the expression of these proteins much faster compared to susceptible maize lines. In addition, we summarised several recent efforts in enhancing maize resistance to aflatoxin contamination using native genes from maize or heterologous and synthetic genes from other sources as well as from A. flavus. These efforts to either suppress A. flavus growth or aflatoxin production, have all shown some promising preliminary success. For example, maize plants transformed with an ?-amylase inhibitor protein from Lablab purpurea showed reduced aflatoxin levels by 56% in kernel screening assays. The antifungal potentials of transgenic maize plants expressing synthetic lytic peptides, such as cecropin-based D4E1 or tachyplesin-based AGM peptides with demonstrated anti-flavus activity (IC50 = 2.5 to 10 ?M), are yet to be assayed. Further investigation in these areas may provide a more cost-effective alternative to biocontrol in managing aflatoxin contamination in maize and other susceptible crops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z.-Y. Chen
- Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, 302 Life Sciences Building, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - K. Rajasekaran
- Southern Regional Research Center, USDA-ARS, 1100 Robert E. Lee Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
| | - R. L. Brown
- Southern Regional Research Center, USDA-ARS, 1100 Robert E. Lee Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
| | - R. J. Sayler
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - D. Bhatnagar
- Southern Regional Research Center, USDA-ARS, 1100 Robert E. Lee Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
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Abstract
Aflatoxin contamination of maize grain is a huge economic and health problem, causing death and increased disease burden in much of the developing world and income loss in the developed world. Despite the gravity of the problem, deployable solutions are still being sought. In the past 15 years, much progress has been made in creating resistant maize inbred lines; mapping of genetic factors associated with resistance; and identifying possible resistance mechanisms. This review highlights this progress, most of which has occurred since the last time a review was published on this topic. Many of the needs highlighted in the last reviews have been addressed, and several solutions, taken together, can now greatly reduce the aflatoxin problem in maize grain. Continued research will soon lead to further solutions, which promise to further reduce and even eliminate the problem completely.
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Miller J, Schaafsma A, Bhatnagar D, Bondy G, Carbone I, Harris L, Harrison G, Munkvold G, Oswald I, Pestka J, Sharpe L, Sumarah M, Tittlemier S, Zhou T. Mycotoxins that affect the North American agri-food sector: state of the art and directions for the future. WORLD MYCOTOXIN J 2014. [DOI: 10.3920/wmj2013.1624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
This paper summarises workshop discussions at the 5th international MYCORED meeting in Ottawa, Canada (June 2012) with over 200 participants representing academics, government and industry scientists, government officials and farming organisations (present in roughly equal proportions) from 27 countries. Workshops centred on how mycotoxins in food and feed affect value chains and trade in the region covered by the North American Free Trade Agreement. Crops are contaminated by one or more of five important mycotoxins in parts of Canada and the United States every year, and when contaminated food and feed are consumed in amounts above tolerable limits, human and animal health are at risk. Economic loss from such contamination includes reduced crop yield, grain quality, animal productivity and loss of domestic and export markets. A systematic effort by grain producers, primary, transfer, and terminal elevators, millers and food and feed processers is required to manage these contaminants along the value chain. Workshops discussed lessons learned from investments in plant genetics, fungal genomics, toxicology, analytical and sampling science, management strategies along the food and feed value chains and methods to ameliorate the effects of toxins in grain on animal production and on reducing the impact of mycotoxins on population health in developing countries. These discussions were used to develop a set of priorities and recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- J.D. Miller
- Department of Chemistry, Carleton University, 228 Steacie Building, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - A.W. Schaafsma
- Ridgetown Campus, University of Guelph, 120 Main Street East, Ridgetown, ON N0P 2C0, Canada
| | - D. Bhatnagar
- Southern Regional Research Center, USDA, ARS, 1100 Robert E. Lee Boulevard, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
| | - G. Bondy
- Health Canada, Food Directorate, Bureau of Chemical Safety, 251 Sir Frederick Banting Driveway, 2202C Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - I. Carbone
- Department of Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, 851 Main Campus Drive, Suite 233, Partners III, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
| | - L.J. Harris
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Eastern Cereal and Oilseed Research Centre, 960 Carling Ave., Ottawa, ON K1A 0C6, Canada
| | - G. Harrison
- Canadian National Millers' Association, 236 Metcalfe Street, Ottawa, ON K2P 1R3, Canada
| | - G.P. Munkvold
- Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, Iowa State University, 160 Seed Science Building, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - I.P. Oswald
- Toxalim, Research Centre in Food Toxicology, INRA, UMR1331, 180 Chemin de Tournefeuille, 31027 Toulouse, France
| | - J.J. Pestka
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, 234 GM Trout Building, East Lansing, MI 48824-1224, USA
| | - L. Sharpe
- DuPont Pioneer Hi-Bred, 7398 Queen's Line, Chatham, ON N7M 5L1, Canada
| | - M.W. Sumarah
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Southern Crop Protection and Food Research Centre, 1391 Sandford Street, London, ON N5V 4T3, Canada
| | - S.A. Tittlemier
- Grain Research Laboratory, Canadian Grain Commission, 1404-303 Main Street, Winnipeg, MB R3C 3G8, Canada
| | - T. Zhou
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Guelph Food Research Center, 93 Stone Road West, Guelph, ON N1G 5C9, Canada
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Rajasekaran K, Sickler C, Brown R, Cary J, Bhatnagar D. Evaluation of resistance to aflatoxin contamination in kernels of maize genotypes using a GFP-expressing Aspergillus flavus strain. WORLD MYCOTOXIN J 2013. [DOI: 10.3920/wmj2012.1497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Resistance or susceptibility of maize inbreds to infection by Aspergillus flavus was evaluated by the kernel screening assay. A green fluorescent protein-expressing strain of A. flavus was used to measure fungal spread and aflatoxin levels in real-time following fungal infection of kernels. Among the four inbreds tested, MI82 showed the most resistance and Ga209 the least. TZAR101 was also resistant to fungal infection, whereas Va35 was susceptible to fungal infection. However, Va35 produced lower aflatoxin levels compared to the susceptible line Ga209. Fluorescence microscopy indicated that the site of entry of the fungus into the kernel was consistently through the pedicel. Entry through the pericarp was never observed in undamaged kernels. In view of these results, incorporation or overexpression of antifungal proteins should be targeted to the pedicel and basal endosperm region in developing kernels. Once the fungus has entered through the pedicel, it spreads quickly through the open spaces between the pericarp and the aleurone layer, ultimately colonising the endosperm and scutellum and, finally, the embryo. A clear correlation was established between fungal fluorescence and aflatoxin levels. This method provides a quick, reliable means of evaluating resistance to A. flavus in undamaged kernels and provides breeders with a rapid method to evaluate maize germplasm.
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Affiliation(s)
- K. Rajasekaran
- USDA-ARS, Southern Regional Research Center, 1100 Robert E. Lee Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
| | - C.M. Sickler
- USDA-ARS, Southern Regional Research Center, 1100 Robert E. Lee Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
| | - R.L. Brown
- USDA-ARS, Southern Regional Research Center, 1100 Robert E. Lee Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
| | - J.W. Cary
- USDA-ARS, Southern Regional Research Center, 1100 Robert E. Lee Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
| | - D. Bhatnagar
- USDA-ARS, Southern Regional Research Center, 1100 Robert E. Lee Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
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Wang T, Chen XP, Li HF, Liu HY, Hong YB, Yang QL, Chi XY, Yang Z, Yu SL, Li L, Liang XQ. Transcriptome identification of the resistance-associated genes (RAGs) to Aspergillus flavus infection in pre-harvested peanut (Arachis hypogaea). FUNCTIONAL PLANT BIOLOGY : FPB 2013; 40:292-303. [PMID: 32481108 DOI: 10.1071/fp12143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2012] [Accepted: 10/04/2012] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Pre-harvest aflatoxin contamination caused by Aspergillus favus is a major concern in peanut. However, little is known about the resistance mechanism, so the incorporation of resistance into cultivars with commercially-acceptable genetic background has been slowed. To identify resistance-associated genes potentially underlying the resistance mechanism, we compared transcriptome profiles in resistant and susceptible peanut genotypes under three different treatments: well watered, drought stress and both A. flavus and drought stress using a customised NimbleGen microarray representing 36158 unigenes. Results showed that the profile of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) displayed a similar pattern of distribution among the functional classes between resistant and susceptible peanuts in response to drought stress. Under A. flavus infection with drought stress, a total of 490 unigenes involved in 26 pathways were differentially expressed in the resistant genotype YJ1 uniquely responding to A. flavus infection, in which 96 DEGs were related to eight pathways: oxidation reduction, proteolysis metabolism, coenzyme A biosynthesis, defence response, signalling, oligopeptide transport, transmembrane transport and carbohydrate biosynthesis/metabolism. Pathway analysis based on the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database showed that eight networks were significantly associated with resistance to A. flavus infection in resistant genotype YJ1 compared with susceptible Yueyou7. To validate microarray analysis, 15 genes were randomly selected for real-time RT-PCR analysis. The results provided in this study may enhance our understanding of the pre-harvest peanut-A. flavus interaction and facilitate to develop aflatoxin resistant peanut lines in future breeding programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Wang
- Crops Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wushan 510640, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Ping Chen
- Crops Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wushan 510640, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hai-Fen Li
- Crops Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wushan 510640, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hai-Yan Liu
- Crops Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wushan 510640, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan-Bin Hong
- Crops Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wushan 510640, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qing-Li Yang
- Shandong Peanut Research Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Licang 266100, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiao-Yuan Chi
- Shandong Peanut Research Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Licang 266100, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhen Yang
- Shandong Peanut Research Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Licang 266100, Qingdao, China
| | - Shan-Lin Yu
- Shandong Peanut Research Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Licang 266100, Qingdao, China
| | - Ling Li
- College of Life Science, South China Normal University, Shipai 510631, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuan-Qiang Liang
- Crops Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wushan 510640, Guangzhou, China
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16
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Relationship between aflatoxin contamination and physiological responses of corn plants under drought and heat stress. Toxins (Basel) 2012. [PMID: 23202322 PMCID: PMC3509714 DOI: 10.3390/toxins4111385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased aflatoxin contamination in corn by the fungus Aspergillus flavus is associated with frequent periods of drought and heat stress during the reproductive stages of the plants. The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between aflatoxin contamination and physiological responses of corn plants under drought and heat stress. The study was conducted in Stoneville, MS, USA under irrigated and non-irrigated conditions. Five commercial hybrids, P31G70, P33F87, P32B34, P31B13 and DKC63-42 and two inbred germplasm lines, PI 639055 and PI 489361, were evaluated. The plants were inoculated with Aspergillus flavus (K-54) at mid-silk stage, and aflatoxin contamination was determined on the kernels at harvest. Several physiological measurements which are indicators of stress response were determined. The results suggested that PI 639055, PI 489361 and hybrid DKC63-42 were more sensitive to drought and high temperature stress in the non-irrigated plots and P31G70 was the most tolerant among all the genotypes. Aflatoxin contamination was the highest in DKC63-42 and PI 489361 but significantly lower in P31G70. However, PI 639055, which is an aflatoxin resistant germplasm, had the lowest aflatoxin contamination, even though it was one of the most stressed genotypes. Possible reasons for these differences are discussed. These results suggested that the physiological responses were associated with the level of aflatoxin contamination in all the genotypes, except PI 639055. These and other physiological responses related to stress may help examine differences among corn genotypes in aflatoxin contamination.
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Cary JW, Rajasekaran K, Brown RL, Luo M, Chen ZY, Bhatnagar D. Developing resistance to aflatoxin in maize and cottonseed. Toxins (Basel) 2011; 3:678-96. [PMID: 22069734 PMCID: PMC3202838 DOI: 10.3390/toxins3060678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2011] [Revised: 06/14/2011] [Accepted: 06/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
At this time, no "magic bullet" for solving the aflatoxin contamination problem in maize and cottonseed has been identified, so several strategies must be utilized simultaneously to ensure a healthy crop, free of aflatoxins. The most widely explored strategy for the control of aflatoxin contamination is the development of preharvest host resistance. This is because A. flavus infects and produces aflatoxins in susceptible crops prior to harvest. In maize production, the host resistance strategy has gained prominence because of advances in the identification of natural resistance traits. However, native resistance in maize to aflatoxin contamination is polygenic and complex and, therefore, markers need to be identified to facilitate the transfer of resistance traits into agronomically viable genetic backgrounds while limiting the transfer of undesirable traits. Unlike maize, there are no known cotton varieties that demonstrate enhanced resistance to A. flavus infection and aflatoxin contamination. For this reason, transgenic approaches are being undertaken in cotton that utilize genes encoding antifungal/anti-aflatoxin factors from maize and other sources to counter fungal infection and toxin production. This review will present information on preharvest control strategies that utilize both breeding and native resistance identification approaches in maize as well as transgenic approaches in cotton.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey W. Cary
- United States Department of Agriculture-Agriculture Research Service, Southern Regional Research Center, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA; (K.R.); (R.L.B.); (M.L.); (D.B.)
| | - Kanniah Rajasekaran
- United States Department of Agriculture-Agriculture Research Service, Southern Regional Research Center, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA; (K.R.); (R.L.B.); (M.L.); (D.B.)
| | - Robert L. Brown
- United States Department of Agriculture-Agriculture Research Service, Southern Regional Research Center, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA; (K.R.); (R.L.B.); (M.L.); (D.B.)
| | - Meng Luo
- United States Department of Agriculture-Agriculture Research Service, Southern Regional Research Center, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA; (K.R.); (R.L.B.); (M.L.); (D.B.)
| | - Zhi-Yuan Chen
- Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA;
| | - Deepak Bhatnagar
- United States Department of Agriculture-Agriculture Research Service, Southern Regional Research Center, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA; (K.R.); (R.L.B.); (M.L.); (D.B.)
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