Evaluation of the cytotoxic properties, gene expression profiles and secondary signalling responses of cultured cells exposed to fumonisin B1, deoxynivalenol and zearalenone mycotoxins

Transcriptome Analysis Reveals the Molecular Mechanism of Potentilla anserina L. Polysaccharides in Mitigating Zearalenone-Induced Oxidative Stress in Porcine Sertoli Cells

Zearalenone (ZEA) is a widespread mycotoxin that contaminates cereals and other animal feeds. Sertoli cells (SCs) are the main target of attack by many environmental toxins. Our previous study found that Potentilla anserina L. polysaccharides (PAP-1b) exhibited protective effects against ZEA-induced oxidative damage in testicular SCs. However, the regulatory mechanisms remain incompletely characterized. In this study, SCs were treated with a complete medium (CON group) or medium containing 150 μg/mL PAP-1b (PAP-1b group). After 4 h, 100 μM ZEA was added to the ZEA group and PAP-1b-ZEA group, respectively. Samples were collected after the cells continued to be incubated for 48 h and subsequently subjected to transcriptome sequencing. The results showed that 1018, 7183, and 1023 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened in the CON-vs.-PAP-1b, CON-vs.-ZEA, and ZEA-vs.-PAP-1b-ZEA groups, respectively. Among them, glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1) emerges as a key gene within this antioxidant defense mechanism. In addition, these DEGs were significantly enriched in Gene Ontology (GO) terms related to oxidative stress as well as in MAPK and PI3K-AKT signaling pathways, suggesting that PAP-1b effectively mitigated ZEA-induced oxidative damage in SCs by regulating these signaling pathways. These results provide an essential basis for the further elucidation of the role of PAP-1b in mitigating ZEA-induced oxidative damage in SCs.

Reproductive Toxicity of Zearalenone and Its Molecular Mechanisms: A Review

Zearalenone (ZEA) is one of the common mycotoxins in feeds. ZEA and its metabolites have estrogen-like activity and can competitively bind to estrogen receptors, causing reproductive dysfunction and damage to reproductive organs. The toxicity mechanism of ZEA mainly inhibits the antioxidant pathway and antioxidant enzyme activity, induces cell cycle arrest and DNA damage, and blocks the process of cellular autophagy to produce toxic effects. In animal husbandry practice, when animals ingest ZEA-contaminated feed, it is likely to lead to abortion in females, abnormal sperm viability in males with inflammatory reactions in various organs, and cancerous changes in the reproductive organs of humans when they ingest contaminated animal products. In this paper, we reviewed in detail how ZEA induces oxidative damage by inducing the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and regulating the expression of genes related to oxidative pathways, induces germ cell apoptosis through the mitochondrial and death receptor pathways, and activates the expression of genes related to autophagy in order to induce cellular autophagy. In addition, the molecular detoxification mechanism of ZEA is also explored in this paper, aiming to provide a new direction and theoretical basis for the development of new ZEA detoxification methods to better reduce the global pollution and harm caused by ZEA.

Identification and functional analysis of hub genes involved in deoxynivalenol-induced enterotoxicity in porcine (Sus scrofa)

Deoxynivalenol (DON) is a type of mycotoxin commonly found in food and animal feed. When consumed, it can have harmful effects on the intestine. The porcine digestive system is physiologically similar to that of humans, making pigs a suitable model for studying DON-induced enterotoxicity. However, the exact ways DON causes intestinal damage in pigs still need to be fully understood. To address this knowledge gap, this study aimed to identify hub genes associated with enterotoxicity caused by DON exposure. Transcriptomic datasets from porcine jejunal explants exposed to DON were extensively analyzed using bioinformatic techniques in this study. A total of 265 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, with 238 being up-regulated and 27 being down-regulated, indicating that exposure to DON tends to increase gene expression. Further analysis revealed that the up-regulated DEGs were enriched in tumor necrosis factor, nuclear factor kappa-B, mitogen-activated protein kinases, and Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription-related signaling pathways. In addition, Weighted gene co-expression network analysis was performed to identify highly co-expressed modules. Then, genes in the highest co-expressed module were intersected with the up-regulated DEGs to construct a Protein-Protein Interaction network, resulting in 237 overlapping genes. Subsequently, 6 hub genes (CXCR4, PTGS2, ICAM1, IL-1A, IL-1B, and IL-10) that played a central role in the response to DON were identified using cytohubba in conjunction with the Molecular Complex Detection. In summary, exposure to DON is more likely to result in increased rather than decreased gene expression. Six of the upregulated genes, which are involved in immunoregulation and inflammation, were identified as hub genes related to DON-induced enterotoxicity in pigs. This study provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying DON-induced enterotoxicity and could guide interventions for this condition.

Protective and Detoxifying Effects of Resveratrol on Zearalenone-Mediated Toxicity: A Review

Zearalenone (ZEA) is a mycotoxin produced by Fusarium spp. fungi and is widely found in moldy corn, wheat, barley, and other grains. ZEA is distributed to the whole body via blood circulation after metabolic transformation in animals. Through oxidative stress, immunosuppression, apoptosis, autophagy, and mitochondrial dysfunction, ZEA leads to hepatitis, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, abortion, and stillbirth in female animals, and decreased sperm motility in male animals. In recent years, due to the influence of climate, storage facilities, and other factors, the problem of ZEA pollution in global food crops has become particularly prominent, resulting in serious problems for the animal husbandry and feed industries, and threatening human health. Resveratrol (RSV) is a natural product with therapeutic activities such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. RSV can alleviate ZEA-induced toxic effects by targeting signaling pathways such as NF-κB, Nrf2/Keap1, and PI3K/AKT/mTOR via attenuating oxidative damage, inflammatory response, and apoptosis, and regulating cellular autophagy. Therefore, this paper provides a review of the protective effect of RSV against ZEA-induced toxicity and its molecular mechanism, and discusses the safety and potential clinical applications of RSV in the search for natural mycotoxin detoxification agents.

Occurrence of the two major regulated mycotoxins, ochratoxin A and fumonisin B1, in cereal and cereal-based products in Europe and toxicological effects: A review

Among cereal contaminants, mycotoxins are of concern due to their importance in terms of food and feed safety. The difficulty in establishing a diagnosis for mycotoxicosis relies on the fact that the effects are most often subclinical for chronic exposure and the most common scenario is multi-contamination by various toxins. Mycotoxin co-occurrence is a major food safety concern as additive or even synergic toxic impacts may occur, but also regarding current regulations as they mainly concern individual mycotoxin levels in specific foods and feed in the food chain. However, due to the large number of possible mycotoxin combinations, there is still limited knowledge on co-exposure toxicity data, which depends on several parameters. In this context, this systematic review aims to provide an overview of the toxic effects of two regulated mycotoxins, namely ochratoxin A and fumonisin B1. This review focused on the 2012-2022 period and analysed the occurrence in Europe of the selected mycotoxins in different food matrices (cereals and cereal-derived products), and their toxic impact, alone or in combination, on in vitro intestinal and hepatic human cells. To better understand and evaluate the associated risks, further research is needed using new approach methodologies (NAM), such as in vitro 3D models. KEY CONTRIBUTION: Cereals and their derived products are the most important food source for humans and feed for animals worldwide. This manuscript is a state of the art review of the literature over the last ten years on ochratoxin A and fumonisin B1 mycotoxins in these products in Europe as well as their toxicological effects, alone and in combination, on human cells. Future perspectives and some challenges regarding the assessment of toxicological effects of mycotoxins are also discussed.

ZEA mediates autophagy through the ROS-AMPK-m-TOR pathway to enhance the susceptibility of mastitis induced by Staphylococcus aureus in mice

Mastitis is an inflammatory response of the mammary tissue caused by pathogenic bacterial infections, especially Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). Zearalenone (ZEA) is one of the common mycotoxins in moldy feed, which usually affects the cow's resistance to pathogenic microorganisms. However, it is not well understood whether ZEA affects the development of mastitis. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the role of ZEA in the development of S. aureus-induced mastitis in mice. The results showed that administered daily by gavage for one week of ZEA (40 mg/kg) aggravated the severity of mastitis induced by S. aureus. Furthermore, we found that ZEA promotes the adhesion and invasion of S. aureus into mouse mammary epithelial cells (MMEC) by activating autophagy, and the activation of autophagy mediated by ROS-AMPK-m-TOR pathway. Taken together, the results showed that ZEA enhances S. aureus-induced mastitis susceptibility through activating autophagy mediated by ROS-AMPK-mTOR signaling pathway.

Mycotoxins in Cereal-Based Products and Their Impacts on the Health of Humans, Livestock Animals and Pets

Cereal grains are the most important food staples for human beings and livestock animals. They can be processed into various types of food and feed products such as bread, pasta, breakfast cereals, cake, snacks, beer, complete feed, and pet foods. However, cereal grains are vulnerable to the contamination of soil microorganisms, particularly molds. The toxigenic fungi/molds not only cause quality deterioration and grain loss, but also produce toxic secondary metabolites, mycotoxins, which can cause acute toxicity, death, and chronic diseases such as cancer, immunity suppression, growth impairment, and neural tube defects in humans, livestock animals and pets. To protect human beings and animals from these health risks, many countries have established/adopted regulations to limit exposure to mycotoxins. The purpose of this review is to update the evidence regarding the occurrence and co-occurrence of mycotoxins in cereal grains and cereal-derived food and feed products and their health impacts on human beings, livestock animals and pets. The effort for safe food and feed supplies including prevention technologies, detoxification technologies/methods and up-to-date regulation limits of frequently detected mycotoxins in cereal grains for food and feed in major cereal-producing countries are also provided. Some important areas worthy of further investigation are proposed.

Aflatoxins in Feed: Types, Metabolism, Health Consequences in Swine and Mitigation Strategies

Feeding farm animals with aflatoxin-contaminated feed can cause various severe toxic effects, leading to increased susceptibility to infectious diseases and increased mortality, weight loss, poor performance and reduced reproductive capability. Following ingestion of contaminated foodstuffs, aflatoxins are metabolized and biotransformed differently in animals. Swine metabolism is not effective in detoxifying and excreting aflatoxins, meaning the risk of aflatoxicosis is increased. Thus, it is of great importance to elucidate the metabolism and all metabolic pathways associated with this mycotoxin. The damage induced by AFB1 in cells and tissues consists of inhibition of cell proliferation, carcinogenicity, immunosuppression, mutagenicity, oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation and DNA damage, leading to pathological lesions in the liver, spleen, lymph node, kidney, uterus, heart, and lungs of swine. At present, it is a challenging task and of serious concern to completely remove aflatoxins and their metabolites from feedstuff; thus, the aim of this study was a literature review on the deleterious effects of aflatoxins on swine metabolism, as well as alternatives that contribute to the detoxification or amelioration of aflatoxin-induced effects in farm animal feed.

Procyanidins inhibit zearalenone-induced apoptosis and oxidative stress of porcine testis cells through activation of Nrf2 signaling pathway

The mycotoxin zearalenone (ZEA) in food and feed seriously harms human and animal health. How to reduce its toxicity is an important direction of current research on food safety. This study aim to assess the effects of procyanidins (PC) on cell apoptosis caused by ZEA and to clarify the role of Nrf2 in the process. Swine testicle (ST) cells were treated with ZEA (57.5 μmol/L) and/or PC (10 mg/L) for 24 h. Cell viability was detected by CCK-8 assay. Cell apoptosis and the level of ROS were detected by flow cytometry. The expression levels of mRNA and protein was detected by qRT-PCR and western blotting. Our results showed that ZEA reduced the antioxidant capacity of the ST cells, induced the cell apoptosis and inhibited the gene and protein expression of Nrf2 and its downstream genes (ho-1,nqo1), while PC improved the cell antioxidant capacity, reduced the degree of ZEA-induced cell apoptosis and promoted the gene and protein expression of Nrf2 and its downstream genes. However, when the Nrf2 small molecule inhibitor ML385 was added, the ability of PC to inhibit ZEA-induced cell apoptosis and promote the expression of Nrf2 and its downstream genes were decreased. Our results demonstrated that ZEA induced oxidative stress and apoptosis of ST cells, which were alleviated by PC intervention via activating Nrf2 signaling pathway. This finding of this study provided a molecular basis for the clinical application of PC to prevent ZEN-caused reproductive toxicity.

Bioenergetic Status of the Intestinal and Hepatic Cells after Short Term Exposure to Fumonisin B1 and Aflatoxin B1

Fumonisin B1 (FB1) and aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) are frequent contaminants of staple foods such as maize. Oral exposure to these toxins poses health hazards by disrupting cellular signaling. However, little is known regarding the multifaced mitochondrial dysfunction-linked toxicity of FB1 and AFB1. Here, we show that after exposure to FB1 and AFB1, mitochondrial respiration significantly decreased by measuring the oxygen consumption rate (OCR), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). The current work shows that the integrity of mitochondria (MMP and ROS), that is the central component of cell apoptosis, is disrupted by FB1 and AFB1 in undifferentiated Caco-2 and HepG2 cells as in vitro models for human intestine and liver, respectively. It hypothesizes that FB1 and AFB1 could disrupt the mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) to induce mitochondrial dysfunction and break the balance of transferring H⁺ between the mitochondrial inner membrane and mitochondrial matrix, however, the proton leak is not increasing and, as a result, ATP synthesis is blocked. At the sub-toxic exposure of 1.0 µg/mL for 24 h, i.e., a viability of 95% in Caco-2 and HepG2 cells, the mitochondrial respiration was, however, stimulated. This suggests that the treated cells could reserve energy for mitochondrial respiration with the exposure of FB1 and AFB1, which could be a survival advantage.

Lipidomics Profiling of HepG2 Cells and Interference by Mycotoxins Based on UPLC-TOF-IMS

Discovering the fungus-infected or mycotoxin-contaminated biomarkers is significant for systems biology since the metabolites in biological samples have significant polarity differences in both stochastic gene expression and microenvironmental change. Here, we aim to establish a comprehensive method for a lipidome by ion mobility mass spectrometry (IMS) merged with chemometrics to accurately find out the more scientific markers of cell interference by mycotoxins and for pathogenesis exploration and drug development. The differences in the abundances of several small molecules found in these metabolites were explored through multivariate statistical analysis, including principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal partial least-squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA), to further screen biomarkers. Good applicability and predictability were demonstrated by R²(X) and Q² (R² = 0.959, Q² = 0.999). Five compounds with m/z values of 512.502 8, 540.5343, 722.525 8, 787.667 5, and 813.683 0 were selected as markers, and four of them were further confirmed by chemical standards (i.e., MSMS of m/z 813.683 0 covering m/z 86.0978, 125.0008, 184.0745, and 185.0781). In summary, we demonstrated the integration of UPLC-TOF-IMS and the chemometrics approach to elucidate identified biomarkers, which also provides a new way of thinking for covering lipid biomarkers or prognostic indicators for mycotoxins.

An update on genotoxic and epigenetic studies of fumonisin B1

Fumonisins (FBs), a widespread group of mycotoxins produced by Fusarium spp., are natural contaminants in cereals and foodstuffs. Fumonisin B1 (FB1) is the most toxic and prevalent mycotoxin of this group, and it has been reported that FB1 accounts for 70-80% of FBs produced by the mycotoxigenic strains. The mode of action of FB1 depends on the structural similarity with sphinganine/sphingosine N-acyltransferase. This fact causes an accumulation of sphingoid bases and blocks the sphingolipid biosynthesis or the function of sphingolipids. Diverse toxic effects and diseases such as hepatocarcinogenicity, hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and cytotoxicity have been reported, and diseases like leukoencephalomalacia in horses and pulmonary oedema in horses and swine have been described. In humans, FBs have been associated with oesophageal cancer, liver cancer, neural tube defects, and infantile growth delay. However, despite the International Agency for Research on Cancer designated FB1 as a possibly carcinogenic to humans, its genotoxicity and epigenetic properties have not been clearly elucidated. This review aims to summarise the progress in research about the genotoxic and epigenetics effects of FB1.

Tannic acid repair of zearalenone-induced damage by regulating the death receptor and mitochondrial apoptosis signaling pathway in mice

Zearalenone (ZEA) is an estrogenic toxin produced by Fusarium strains, that is widely present in crops, and endangers the reproductive system of animals. Tannic acid (TA) is a natural polyphenolic substance that is widespread in the roots, stems, and leaves of plants, and has special pharmacological activity. This study was designed to investigate the therapeutic effect of TA on ZEA-induced ovarian damage in mice and to explore the molecular mechanism involved. Ninety healthy Kunming female mice were divided into six equal groups. All the groups but the control group were administered daily with ZEA [10 mg/kg body weight (bw)] orally, for 7 days, to induce damage to the reproductive system. Some groups were also administered with TA (50, 100, and 200 mg/bw) for 7 days. Mice were euthanized 24 h later to allow for collection of serum and ovaries. TA can effectively alleviate the appearance of congestion and redness of the ovary, caused by ZEA, and increase the number of healthy growing follicles. Moreover, the estrogen content and the levels of MDA and ROS in the ovaries can be effectively reduced by TA. It can also reduce the apoptosis of ovarian cells, decreases the protein expression of the estrogen receptor, Fas, Fasl, caspase-3, caspase-8, caspase-9, and Bax, and increases the protein expression of Bcl-2. Our study indicates that TA reduces the strong estrogen and oxidative damage induced by ZEA, and these therapeutic effects may be partially mediated by the death receptor and mitochondrial apoptosis signaling pathway.

Investigating the Opposing Effect of Two Different Green Tea Supplements on Oxidative Stress, Mitochondrial Function and Cell Viability in HepG2 Cells

Green tea extract (GTE) improves exercise outcomes and reduces obesity. However, case studies indicate contradictory physiology regarding liver function and toxicity. We studied the effect of two different decaffeinated GTE (dGTE) products, from a non-commercial (dGTE1) and commercial (dGTE2) supplier, on hepatocyte function using the human cell model, HepG2. dGTE1 was protective against hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced apoptosis and cell death by attenuating oxidative stress pathways. Conversely, dGTE2 increased cellular and mitochondrial oxidative stress and apoptosis. A bioavailability study with dGTE showed the major catechin in GTE, EGCG, reached 0.263 µg·ml^-1. In vitro, at this concentration, EGCG mimicked the protective effect of dGTE1. GC/MS analysis identified steric acid and higher levels of palmitic acid in dGTE2 versus dGTE1 supplements. We demonstrate the significant biological differences between two GTE supplements which may have potential implications for manufacturers and consumers to be aware of the biological effects of supplementation.

Transcriptome Analysis Reveals the AhR, Smad2/3, and HIF-1α Pathways as the Mechanism of Ochratoxin A Toxicity in Kidney Cells

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a mycotoxin occurring in foods consumed by humans. Recently, there has been growing global concern regarding OTA toxicity. The main target organ of OTA is the kidney, but the mechanism underlying renal toxicity is not well known. In this study, human-derived proximal tubular epithelial cells, HK-2 cells, were used for RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) and transcriptome analysis. In total, 3193 differentially expressed genes were identified upon treatment with 200 nM OTA in HK-2 cells; of these, 2224 were upregulated and 969 were downregulated. Transcriptome analysis revealed that OTA significantly affects hypoxia, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), apoptosis, and xenobiotic metabolism pathways in kidney cells. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis showed gene expression patterns similar to RNA-seq analysis. Expression of EMT markers (E-cadherin and fibronectin), apoptosis markers (caspase-3 and Bax), and kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) was suppressed by inhibiting AhR expression using siRNA, and the related transcription factors, Smad2/3, and HIF-1α were downregulated. Smad2/3 suppression with siRNA could inhibit fibronetcin, caspase-3, Bax, and KIM-1 expression. Fibronetcin, caspase-3, Bax, and KIM-1 expression could be increased with HIF-1α suppression with siRNA. Taken together, these findings suggest that OTA-mediated kidney toxicity via the AhR-Smad2/3-HIF-1α signaling pathways leads to induction of EMT, apoptosis, and kidney injury.

Cytotoxicity study of deoxynivalenol on human embryo liver and hepatoma cell

To investigate the cytotoxicity of deoxynivalenol (DON) on human embryo liver CCC-HEL-1 and hepatoma cell line HepG2 cell models, both cell experience and metabolomic approach were studied. For the cell evaluation, cells viabilities of CCC-HEL-1 and HepG2 were decreased in both a time- and dose-dependent manner at concentration range from 0.08~10 μmol/l, after which the concentration of 1 μmol/l DON was selected for the next experiments. A higher production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in DON treated CCC-HEL-1 cells was found after 2 h treatment compared with the HepG2 group, while ROS generation was significantly dropped after 48 h in both models. DON-treated CCC-HEL-1 and HepG2 cells displayed significantly decreased percentages of ΔΨm loss. For the metabolomic study based on liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry, it was notable that certain amino acids identified in the two DON-treated groups were upregulated. The pathway analysis also revealed that amino acid metabolism played a crucial role underlying DON exposure in the two studied models. Our results provided metabolic evidence that further confirmed the toxicological potential of DON to disturb amino acid and lipid metabolism in human embryo liver cells.

Anti-Melanoma Activities of Artemisone and Prenylated Amino-Artemisinins in Combination With Known Anticancer Drugs

The most frequently occurring cancers are those of the skin, with melanoma being the leading cause of death due to skin cancer. Breakthroughs in chemotherapy have been achieved in certain cases, though only marginal advances have been made in treatment of metastatic melanoma. Strategies aimed at inducing redox dysregulation by use of reactive oxygen species (ROS) inducers present a promising approach to cancer chemotherapy. Here we use a rational combination of an oxidant drug combined with a redox or pro-oxidant drug to optimize the cytotoxic effect. Thus we demonstrate for the first time enhanced activity of the amino-artemisinin artemisone and novel prenylated piperazine derivatives derived from dihydroartemisinin as the oxidant component, and elesclomol-Cu(II) as the redox component, against human malignant melanoma cells A375 in vitro. The combinations caused a dose dependent decrease in cell numbers and increase in apoptosis. The results indicate that oxidant-redox drug combinations have considerable potential and warrant further investigation.

Transcriptomic investigation reveals toxic damage due to tilmicosin and potential resistance against tilmicosin in primary chicken myocardial cells

Tilmicosin is widely used to treat respiratory infections in animals and has been reported to induce cardiac damage and even sudden death. However, its exact mechanisms, especially in chickens, remain unclear. This study confirmed the dose-dependent damaging effect of tilmicosin on primary chicken myocardial cells. Primary chicken myocardial cells treated with tilmicosin (0.5 μg/mL) for 0 h, 12 h, and 48 h were subjected to RNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that cytokine-cytokine receptor interactions, calcium signaling pathway, peroxisomes, phagosomes, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, and oxidative phosphorylation were significantly and differentially affected after 12 h or 48 h of tilmicosin treatment. Further evidence demonstrated consistently increased proinflammatory factors, peroxidation, and ferroptosis, and intracellular ion imbalance was caused by tilmicosin for 12 h, but this imbalance had recovered at 48 h. Meanwhile, intracellular resistance to tilmicosin-induced toxicity involved the active regulation of cyclooxygenase-1 and ATPase H⁺/K⁺-transporting beta subunit at 48 h, sustained activation of MAPK12, and downregulation of dual specificity phosphatase 10 at 12 h. In summary, this study suggests that tilmicosin exerts its cardiotoxicity in primary chicken myocardial cells through multiple mechanisms and finds several intracellular molecular targets to resist the toxicity.

Responses of oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines after zearalenone exposure in human kidney cells

Zearalenone is a mycotoxin widely found worldwide that is produced by several fungal species. Due to its similarity to estradiol, it has been shown to have toxic effects on the reproductive system. Although various animal studies have been conducted to investigate the toxic effects of zearalenone, the mechanisms of toxicity have not been fully elucidated. The aim of the study was to investigate the dose-dependent toxic effects of zearalenone exposure in human kidney cells. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration values of zearalenone in HK-2 cells were found to be 133.42 and 101.74 µM in MTT- and NRU-tests, respectively. Zearalenone exposure at concentrations of 1, 10 and 50 µM decreased cell proliferation by 2.1, 11.07 and 24.34%, respectively. Reactive oxygen species levels increased significantly in a dose-dependent manner. A significant increase was observed in the expressions of MGMT, α-GST, Hsp70 and HO-1 genes, which are associated with oxidative damage, while a significant decrease in L-Fabp gene expression was observed. Moreover, zearalenone increased gene expression of inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6, IL-8, TNFα and MAPK8. Significant increases were observed at the level of global DNA methylation and expression of DNMT1 in all exposure groups. These results indicate that changes in DNA methylation and oxidative damage may play an important role in the toxicity of zearalenone.

Short-term neuronal effects of fumonisin B1 on neuronal activity in rodents

Fumonisin B1 (FB1) is a mycotoxin produced by microscopic fungi (mostly Fusarium species), which may infect our major crops. The toxin inhibits the development of these plants and may also have harmful effects on animals and humans consuming the infected crops. FB1 inhibits sphingolipid biosynthesis which leads to altered membrane characteristics and consequently, altered cellular functions. There are some indications that the toxin has inhibitory effects on neuronal activity in case of repeated consumption, presumably due to sphingolipid depletion. However, according to new literature data, FB1 may have acute excitatory neural effects, too, via different mechanisms of action. Therefore, in the present study, we addressed the neuronal network effects of FB1 following acute treatment, using different electrophysiological techniques in vitro and in vivo. Acute treatments with FB1 (10-100 μM) were carried out on brain slices, tissue cultures and live animals. After direct treatment of samples, electrically evoked or spontaneous field potentials were examined in the hippocampus and the neocortex of rat brain slices and in hippocampal cell cultures. In the hippocampus, a short-term increase in the excitability of neuronal networks and individual cells was observed in response to FB1 treatment. In some cases, the initially enhanced excitation was reversed presumably due to overactivation of neuronal networks. Normal spontaneous activity was found to be stimulated in hippocampal cell cultures. Seizure susceptibility was not affected in the neocortex of brain slices. For the verification of the results caused by direct treatment, effects of systemic administration of FB1 (7.5 mg/kg, i.p.) were also examined. Evoked field potentials recorded in vivo from the somatosensory cortex and cell activation measured by the c-fos technique in hippocampus and somatosensory cortex were analyzed. However, the hippocampal and cortical stimulatory effect detected in vitro could not be demonstrated by these in vivo assays. Altogether, the toxin enhanced the basic excitability of neurons and neuronal networks after direct treatment but there were no effects on the given brain areas after systemic treatment in vivo. Based on the observed in vitro FB1 effects and the lack of data on the penetration of FB1 across the blood-brain barrier, we assume that in vivo consequences of FB1 administration can be more prominent in case of perturbed blood-brain barrier functions.

Evaluation of the epigenetic alterations and gene expression levels of HepG2 cells exposed to zearalenone and α-zearalenol

Zearalenone, produced by various Fusarium species, is a non-steroidal estrogenic mycotoxin that contaminates cereals, resulting in adverse effects on human health. We investigated the effects of zearalenone and its metabolite alpha zearalenol on epigenetic modifications and its relationship with metabolic pathways in human hepatocellular carcinoma cells following 24 h of exposure. Zearalenone and alpha zearalenol at the concentrations of 1, 10 and 50 μM significantly increased global levels of DNA methylation and global histone modifications (H3K27me3, H3K9me3, H3K9ac). Expression levels of the chromatin modifying enzymes EHMT2, ESCO1, HAT1, KAT2B, PRMT6 and SETD8 were upregulated by 50 μM of zearalenone exposure using PCR arrays, consistent with the results of global histone modifications. Zearalenone and alpha zearalenol also changed expression levels of the AhR, LXRα, PPARα, PPARɣ, L-fabp, LDLR, Glut2, Akt1 and HK2 genes, which are related to nuclear receptors and metabolic pathways. PPARɣ, a key regulator of lipid metabolism, was selected from among these genes for further analysis. The PPARɣ promoter reduced methylation significantly following zearalenone exposure. Taken together, the epigenetic mechanisms of DNA methylation and histone modifications may be key mechanisms in zearalenone toxicity. Furthermore, effects of zearalenone in metabolic pathways could be mediated by epigenetic modifications.

Comparison of the toxic mechanism of T-2 toxin and deoxynivalenol on human chondrocytes by microarray and bioinformatics analysis

T-2 toxin and deoxynivalenol (DON) are two representative mycotoxins that are commonly found in cereals and agricultural products. As T-2 toxin and DON are considered the cause of Kashin-Beck disease, a special osteoarticular disease, chondrocytes would be a vital target site for these toxins. To fully understand the toxicity effects of T-2 toxin and DON on chondrocytes, the present study investigated and compared the gene expression profiles and underlying mechanisms of T-2 toxin and DON on cultured human chondrocytes by microarray and bioinformatics analysis. Normal human chondrocytes were treated with T-2 toxin at 0.01 μg/ml and DON at 1.0 μg/ml for 72 h and analyzed by microarray using Affymetrix Human Gene Chip. Comprehensive analysis, including gene ontology, pathways and gene-gene networks was performed to identify the crucial gene functions, related signal pathways and key genes. A total of 175 and 237 differentially expressed genes were identified in human chondrocytes for T-2 toxin and DON treatment, respectively. Of these, 47 had the same expression tendencies in the two groups. The protein-protein interaction network analysis showed that the 10 hub genes were different between the two groups. Our results provide a comprehensive understanding of the toxic mechanism of T-2 toxin and DON on human chondrocytes and suggest that although T-2 toxin and DON showed some similar toxic mechanisms in human chondrocytes, they also had different toxic characteristics.

Mycotoxin Occurrence in Maize Silage-A Neglected Risk for Bovine Gut Health?

Forages are important components of dairy cattle rations but might harbor a plethora of mycotoxins. Ruminants are considered to be less susceptible to the adverse health effects of mycotoxins, mainly because the ruminal microflora degrades certain mycotoxins. Yet, impairment of the ruminal degradation capacity or high ruminal stability of toxins can entail that the intestinal epithelium is exposed to significant mycotoxin amounts. The aims of our study were to assess i) the mycotoxin occurrence in maize silage and ii) the cytotoxicity of relevant mycotoxins on bovine intestinal cells. In total, 158 maize silage samples were collected from European dairy cattle farms. LC-MS/MS-based analysis of 61 mycotoxins revealed the presence of emerging mycotoxins (e.g. emodin, culmorin, enniatin B1, enniatin B, and beauvericin) in more than 70% of samples. Among the regulated mycotoxins, deoxynivalenol and zearalenone were most frequently detected (67.7%). Overall, 87% of maize silages contained more than five mycotoxins. Using an in vitro model with calf small intestinal epithelial cells B, the cytotoxicity of deoxynivalenol, nivalenol, fumonisin B1 and enniatin B was evaluated (0-200 µM). Absolute IC50 values varied in dependence of employed assay and were 1.2-3.6 µM, 0.8-1.0 µM, 8.6-18.3 µM, and 4.0-6.7 µM for deoxynivalenol, nivalenol, fumonisin B1, and enniatin B, respectively. Results highlight the potential relevance of mycotoxins for bovine gut health, a previously neglected target in ruminants.

In-vitro cytotoxicity of various Siphonochilus aethiopicus (Schweinf.) B.L. Burtt extracts in combination with selected tableting excipients

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the cytotoxic potential of S. aethiopicus extracts in combination with chitosan and Pharmacel^® 101, on two cell lines.

METHODS

Extracts were chemically characterised utilising UPLC-Q-TOF/MS, followed by determination of cell viability and membrane integrity.

KEY FINDINGS

Ethanol (EtOH) and diethyl ether (DiEt) extracts contained significant quantities of all chosen biomarker molecules; however, only two were scarcely quantifiable in aqueous extracts. Aqueous extracts did not induce any cytotoxic effects, whereas EtOH and DiEt extracts caused concentration-dependent decreases in cell viability and membrane integrity loss in both cell lines. Ensuing exposure to EtOH extracts at 50, 100 and 150 μg/ml, HepG2 cells were considered 15.5%, 12.5% and 32.8% apoptotic, whereas DiEt extracts caused 4.5%, 13.5% and 33.9% apoptotic cells. Exposure to EtOH and DiEt extracts at 50 μg/ml ensued in 20.2% and 21.3% apoptosis in Caco-2 cells; 100 μg/ml induced apoptosis in 19.9% and 10.3% of Caco-2 cells; whereas exposure to 150 μg/ml EtOH extracts caused 12.6% apoptosis compared to 11.7% induced by the DiEt extract.

CONCLUSIONS

None of the excipients caused any significantly altered cellular effects, indicating little chance for physicochemical interactions. Aqueous extracts did not possess any cytotoxic properties. However, it is clear that organic extracts caused apoptotic and necrotic cell death.

Activation of the p38/MAPK pathway regulates autophagy in response to the CYPOR-dependent oxidative stress induced by zearalenone in porcine intestinal epithelial cells

Zearalenone (ZEA) can widely contaminate crops and agricultural products. The ingestion of ZEA-contaminated food or feed affects the integrity and functions of the intestines. In this study, we aimed to find the potential protective mechanism against ZEA ingestion. We found that ZEA induced cell death in IPEC-J2 cells. Meanwhile, the cytoprotective autophagy was activated in ZEA-treated cells. Further studies demonstrated that a p38/MAPK inhibitor down-regulated autophagy and increased cell death compared to those of the controls. Furthermore, ZEA could induce the accumulation of ROS, and eliminating ROS with NAC resulted in a decline in cell death, p38/MAPK phosphorylation, and the expression of LC3-II compared to those of ZEA-group. In addition, cytochrome P450 reductase (CYPOR) was significantly increased in ZEA-treated cells compared to that in the controls, and an inhibitor of CYPOR decreased ROS levels and mitigated cell death compared to those of the ZEA-group. More importantly, we found that blocking both p38/MAPK signalling and autophagy could enhance CYPOR expression and elevate ROS levels. Overall, our study indicated that the p38/MAPK pathway could activate protective autophagy in response to the CYPOR-dependent oxidative stress that was induced by ZEA in IPEC-J2 cells.

Evaluating cellular uptake of gold nanoparticles in HL-7702 and HepG2 cells for plasmonic photothermal therapy

AIM

A novel methodology is provided to quantitatively measure the gold (Au) mass internalized in a cell for effective implementation of plasmonic photothermal therapy (PPTT).

MATERIALS & METHODS

The cellular uptake of 4-mercaptobenzoic acid-labeled Au nanoparticles (NPs) is investigated via Raman mapping and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry and the efficiency of in vitro PPTT is evaluated.

RESULTS & CONCLUSION

The cellular uptake is strongly affected by the size of the Au NPs, concentration of the Au NPs, incubation time and cell type. By optimizing the experimental parameters, the results show that a significant damage is caused to the HepG2 cells and slight harm is caused to the HL-7702 cells during PPTT. This demonstrates a high potential for developing effective photothermal therapy for tumor tissues.

Assessing the combined toxicity of the natural toxins, aflatoxin B1, fumonisin B1 and microcystin-LR by high content analysis

As human co-exposure to natural toxins through food and water is inevitable, risk assessments to safeguard health are necessary. Aflatoxin B₁ and fumonisin B₁, frequent co-contaminants of maize and microcystin-LR, produced in freshwater by cyanobacteria are all naturally occurring potent toxins that threaten human health. Populations in the poorest regions of the world may suffer repeated simultaneous exposure to these contaminants. Using High Content Analysis, multiple cytotoxicity endpoints were measured for the individual toxins and mixtures in various cell lines. Results highlighted that significant cytotoxic effects were observed for aflatoxin B₁ in all cell lines while no cytotoxic effects were observed for fumonisin B1 or microcystin-LR. Aflatoxin B₁/microcystin-LR was cytotoxic in the order HepG2 > Caco-2 > MDBK. Fumonisin B₁/microcystin-LR affected MDBK cells. The ternary mixture was cytotoxic to all cell lines. Most combinations were additive, however antagonism was observed for binary and ternary mixtures in HepG2 and MDBK cell lines at low and high concentrations. Synergy was observed in all cell lines, including at low concentrations. The combination of these natural toxins may pose a significant risk to populations in less developed countries. Furthermore, the study highlights the complexity around trying to regulate for human exposure to multiple contaminants.

Study on mycotoxin contamination in South African food spices

A validated QuEChERS-based method was used to investigate the occurrence of mycotoxins in 70 South African food spices [coarse chilli (n=14), ground chilli (n=4), paprika (n=7), ginger (n=5), chicken spices (n=8), onion spices (n=8), beef spices (n=5), Mexican chilli (n=9), vegetable spice (n=1), fruit chutney spices (n=4), and cheese spices (n=5)]. Mycotoxins were quantified using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Results revealed that 40% of the samples were contaminated with aflatoxin B1, aflatoxin G1, ochratoxin A, sterigmatocystin, 3-acetyldeoxynivalenol, fumonisin B1, fumonisin B2 and/or roquefortine C. The contamination levels for aflatoxin B1 ranged from 3-19 μg/kg; aflatoxin G1, 10-11 μg/kg; ochratoxin A, 4-20 μg/kg; fumonisin B1 104-591 μg/kg; fumonisin B2, 64-5,897 μg/kg; sterigmatocystin, 11-18 μg/kg; 3-acetyldeoxynivalenol, 42-46 μg/kg; and roquefortine C, 17-57 μg/kg. Mycotoxins co-occurred in 11% of the spice samples. Amongst the samples analysed in this study, paprika had the highest positives (100%) for the determined mycotoxins. Previous reports on mycotoxin contamination in spices, focused on the incidence of aflatoxins and ochratoxin A, but not on the multi-mycotoxin profile in South African spices. This study thus provides a comprehensive assessment of mycotoxin contamination of spices in South Africa.

Synthesis, antimalarial activities and cytotoxicities of amino-artemisinin-1,2-disubstituted ferrocene hybrids

Artemisinin-ferrocene conjugates incorporating a 1,2-disubstituted ferrocene analogous to that embedded in ferroquine but attached via a piperazine linker to C10 of the artemisinin were prepared from the piperazine artemisinin derivative, and activities were evaluated against asexual blood stages of chloroquine (CQ) sensitive NF54 and CQ resistant K1 and W2 strains of Plasmodium falciparum (Pf). The most active was the morpholino derivative 5 with IC₅₀ of 0.86 nM against Pf K1 and 1.4 nM against Pf W2. The resistance indices were superior to those of current clinical artemisinins. Notably, the compounds were active against Pf NF54 early and late blood stage gametocytes - these exerted >86% inhibition at 1 µM against both stages; they are thus appreciably more active than methylene blue (∼57% inhibition at 1 µM) against late stage gametocytes. The data portends transmission blocking activity. Cytotoxicity was determined against human embryonic kidney cells (Hek293), while human malignant melanoma cells (A375) were used to assess their antitumor activity.

Deoxynivalenol induces structural alterations in epidermoid carcinoma cells A431 and impairs the response to biomechanical stimulation

Morphology together with the capability to respond to surrounding stimuli are key elements governing the spatial interaction of living cells with the environment. In this respect, biomechanical stimulation can trigger significant physiological cascades that can potentially modulate toxicity. Deoxynivalenol (DON, vomitoxin) is one of the most prevalent mycotoxins produced by Fusarium spp. and it was used to explore the delicate interaction between biomechanical stimulation and cytotoxicity in A431 cells. In fact, in addition of being a food contaminant, DON is a relevant toxin for several organ systems. The combination between biomechanical stimulation and the mycotoxin revealed how DON can impair crucial functions affecting cellular morphology, tubulin and lysosomes at concentrations even below those known to be cytotoxic in routine toxicity studies. Sub-toxic concentrations of DON (0.1-1 μM) impaired the capability of A431 cells to respond to a biomechanical stimulation that normally sustains trophic effects in these cells. Moreover, the effects of DON (0.1-10 μM) were partially modulated by the application of uniaxial stretching (0.5 Hz, 24 h, 15% deformation). Ultimately, proteomic analysis revealed the potential of DON to alter several proteins necessary for cell adhesion and cytoskeletal modulation suggesting a molecular link between biomechanics and the cytotoxic potential of the mycotoxin.

Cellulosic Nanomaterials in Food and Nutraceutical Applications: A Review

Cellulosic nanomaterials (CNMs) are organic, green nanomaterials that are obtained from renewable sources and possess exceptional mechanical strength and biocompatibility. The associated unique physical and chemical properties have made these nanomaterials an intriguing prospect for various applications including the food and nutraceutical industry. From the immobilization of various bioactive agents and enzymes, emulsion stabilization, direct food additives, to the development of intelligent packaging systems or pathogen or pH detectors, the potential food related applications for CNMs are endless. Over the past decade, there have been several reviews published covering different aspects of cellulosic nanomaterials, such as processing-structure-property relationship, physical and chemical properties, rheology, extraction, nanocomposites, etc. In this critical review, we have discussed and provided a summary of the recent developments in the utilization of cellulosic nanomaterials in applications related to food and nutraceuticals.

Synthesis, in vitro antimalarial activities and cytotoxicities of amino-artemisinin-ferrocene derivatives

Novel derivatives bearing a ferrocene attached via a piperazine linker to C-10 of the artemisinin nucleus were prepared from dihydroartemisinin and screened against chloroquine (CQ) sensitive NF54 and CQ resistant K1 and W2 strains of Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) parasites. The overall aim is to imprint oxidant (from the artemisinin) and redox (from the ferrocene) activities. In a preliminary assessment, these compounds were shown to possess activities in the low nM range with the most active being compound 6 with IC₅₀ values of 2.79 nM against Pf K1 and 3.2 nM against Pf W2. Overall the resistance indices indicate that the compounds have a low potential for cross resistance. Cytotoxicities were determined with Hek293 human embryonic kidney cells and activities against proliferating cells were assessed against A375 human malignant melanoma cells. The selectivity indices of the amino-artemisinin ferrocene derivatives indicate there is overall an appreciably higher selectivity towards the malaria parasite than mammalian cells.

Individual and Combined Effects of Fumonisin B₁, Deoxynivalenol and Zearalenone on the Hepatic and Renal Membrane Lipid Integrity of Rats

(1) Background and (2) Methods: A 14-day in vivo, multitoxic (pure mycotoxins) rat experiment was conducted with zearalenone (ZEA; 15 μg/animal/day), deoxynivalenol (DON; 30 μg/animal/day) and fumonisin B₁ (FB₁; 150 μg/animal/day), as individual mycotoxins, binary (FD, FZ and DZ) and ternary combinations (FDZ), via gavage in 1 mL water boluses. (3) Results: Body weight was unaffected, while liver (ZEA↑ vs. DON) and kidney weight (ZEA↑ vs. FDZ) increased. Hepatocellular membrane lipid fatty acids (FAs) referred to ceramide synthesis disturbance (C20:0, C22:0), and decreased unsaturation (C22:5 n3 and unsat. index), mainly induced by DON and to a lesser extent by ZEA. The DON-FB₁ interaction was additive on C20:0 in liver lipids. In renal phospholipids, ZEA had the strongest effect on the FA profile, affecting the saturated (C18:0) and many n6 FAs; ZEA was in an antagonistic relationship with FB₁ (C18:0) or DON (C18:2 n6, C20:1 n9). Hepatic oxidative stress was the most expressed in FD (reduced glutathione and glutathione peroxidase), while the nephrotoxic effect was further supported by lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde) in the DON treatment. (4) Conclusions: In vivo study results refer to multiple mycotoxin interactions on membrane FAs, antioxidants and lipid peroxidation compounds, needing further testing.

The antimicrobial peptide nisin Z induces selective toxicity and apoptotic cell death in cultured melanoma cells

Reprogramming of cellular metabolism is now considered one of the hallmarks of cancer. Most malignant cells present with altered energy metabolism which is associated with elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. This is also evident for melanoma, the leading cause of skin cancer related deaths. Altered mechanisms affecting mitochondrial bioenergetics pose attractive targets for novel anticancer therapies. Antimicrobial peptides have been shown to exhibit selective anticancer activities. In this study, the anti-melanoma potential of the antimicrobial peptide, nisin Z, was evaluated in vitro. Nisin Z was shown to induce selective toxicity in melanoma cells compared to non-malignant keratinocytes. Furthermore, nisin Z was shown to negatively affect the energy metabolism (glycolysis and mitochondrial respiration) of melanoma cells, increase reactive oxygen species generation and cause apoptosis. Results also indicate that nisin Z can decrease the invasion and proliferation of melanoma cells demonstrating its potential use against metastasis associated with melanoma. As nisin Z seems to place a considerable extra burden on the energy metabolism of melanoma cells, combination therapies with known anti-melanoma agents may be effective treatment options.

Effects of deoxynivalenol- and zearalenone-contaminated feed on the gene expression profiles in the kidneys of piglets

Objective

Fusarium mycotoxins deoxynivalenol (DON) and zearalenone (ZEN), common contaminants in the feed of farm animals, cause immune function impairment and organ inflammation. Consequently, the main objective of this study was to elucidate DON and ZEN effects on the mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and other immune related genes in the kidneys of piglets.

Methods

Fifteen 6-week-old piglets were randomly assigned to three dietary treatments for 4 weeks: control diet, and diets contaminated with either 8 mg DON/kg feed or 0.8 mg ZEN/kg feed. Kidney samples were collected after treatment, and RNA-seq was used to investigate the effects on immune-related genes and gene networks.

Results

A total of 186 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened (120 upregulated and 66 downregulated). Gene ontology analysis revealed that the immune response, and cellular and metabolic processes were significantly controlled by these DEGs. The inflammatory stimulation might be an effect of the following enriched Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes pathway analysis found related to immune and disease responses: cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, chemokine signaling pathway, toll-like receptor signaling pathway, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), tuberculosis, Epstein-Barr virus infection, and chemical carcinogenesis. The effects of DON and ZEN on genome-wide expression were assessed, and it was found that the DEGs associated with inflammatory cytokines (interleukin 10 receptor, beta, chemokine [C-X-C motif] ligand 9, CXCL10, chemokine [C-C motif] ligand 4), proliferation (insulin like growth factor binding protein 4, IgG heavy chain, receptor-type tyrosine-protein phosphatase C, cytochrome P450 1A1, ATP-binding cassette sub-family 8), and other immune response networks (lysozyme, complement component 4 binding protein alpha, oligoadenylate synthetase 2, signaling lymphocytic activation molecule-9, α-aminoadipic semialdehyde dehydrogenase, Ig lambda chain c region, pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase, isozyme 4, carboxylesterase 1), were suppressed by DON and ZEN.

Conclusion

In summary, our results indicate that high concentrations of DON and ZEN suppress the inflammatory response in kidneys, leading to potential effects on immune homeostasis.

Gene expression profiles and molecular mechanism of cultured human chondrocytes' exposure to T-2 toxin and deoxynivalenol

T-2 toxin and deoxynivalenol (DON) are secondary metabolites produced by Fusarium fungi and are commonly found on food and feed. Although T-2 toxin and DON have been suggested as the etiology of Kashin-Beck disease (KBD), an endemic osteochondropathy, little is known about the mechanism when human chondrocytes are exposed to T-2 toxin and DON. The purpose of this study is to identify the gene expression differences and underlying molecular changes modulated by T-2 toxin and DON in vitro in human chondrocytes. After the experiments of cell viability, the gene expression profiles were analyzed in cells that were treated with 0.01 μg/ml T-2 toxin and 1.0 μg/ml DON for 72 h by Affymetrix Human Gene Chip. The array results showed that 882 and 2118 genes were differentially expressed for T-2 toxin and DON exposure, respectively. Enrichment analysis revealed that diverse cellular processes including DNA damage, cell cycle regulation and metabolism of extracellular matrix were affected when human chondrocytes were exposed to T-2 toxin and DON. These results demonstrate the gene expression differences and molecular mechanism of cultured human chondrocytes exposure to T-2 toxin and DON, and provide a new insight into future research in the etiology of KBD.

Deoxynivalenol Exposure in Norway, Risk Assessments for Different Human Age Groups

Deoxynivalenol (DON) is the most common mycotoxin in Norwegian cereals, and DON is detected in most samples of crude cereal grain and cereal food commodities such as flour, bran, and oat flakes. The Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety assessed the risk for adverse effects of deoxynivalenol (DON) in different age groups of the domestic population. This review presents the main results from the risk assessment, supplemented with some recently published data. Impairment of the immune system together with reduced feed intake and weight gain are the critical effects of DON in experimental animals on which the current tolerable daily intake was established. Based on food consumption and occurrence data, the mean exposure to DON in years with low and high levels of DON in the flour, respectively, were in the range of or up to two times the Tolerable Daily Intake (TDI) in 1-year-old infants and 2-year-old children. In years with high mean DON concentration, the high (95th-percentile) exposure exceeded the TDI by up to 3.5 times in 1-, 2- , 4-, and 9-year-old children. The assessment concluded that exceeding the TDI in infants and children is of concern. The estimated dietary DON intakes in adolescent and adult populations are in the range of the TDI or below, and are not a health concern. Acute human exposure to DON is not of concern in any age group.

Forthcoming Challenges in Mycotoxins Toxicology Research for Safer Food-A Need for Multi-Omics Approach

The presence of mycotoxins in food represents a severe threat for public health and welfare, and poses relevant research challenges in the food toxicology field. Nowadays, food toxicologists have to provide answers to food-related toxicological issues, but at the same time they should provide the appropriate knowledge in background to effectively support the evidence-based decision-making in food safety. Therefore, keeping in mind that regulatory actions should be based on sound scientific findings, the present opinion addresses the main challenges in providing reliable data for supporting the risk assessment of foodborne mycotoxins.