Epigenetic alterations caused by aflatoxin b1: a public health risk in the induction of hepatocellular carcinoma

Effective novel and conventional technologies for decontamination of aflatoxin B1 in foods: a review

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a carcinogenic mycotoxin produced by certain filamentous fungi that contaminate agricultural crops. Conventional decontamination methods are still widely used to ensure food safety; however, novel technologies for AFB1 decontamination, while promising, aim to be efficient, cost-effective, and scalable. This article provides an overview of conventional and novel technologies used over the past decade to achieve AFB1 decontamination rates of 75% or higher, as well as patents related to aflatoxin decontamination. The results highlight various methods and their effectiveness in decontaminating AFB1 in rice, barley, maize, peanuts, millet, nuts, sorghum, wheat bran, pistachios, edible oils, dairy products, and certain culture media. Novel technologies include sorbents, cold atmospheric plasma, essential oils, phenolic compounds, and plant extracts, as well as magnetic materials and nanoparticles for AFB1 decontamination. Limitations associated with conventional methods have driven the search for novel approaches that, while showing great potential, often lack detailed explanations of their mechanisms of action and practical demonstrations on an industrial scale. Cold atmospheric plasma combined with high voltage is believed to hold significant promise for effectively reducing AFB1 in food while minimizing food residues. The new AFB1 decontamination methods described in this review can serve as valuable resources for researchers and industry stakeholders; however, further studies are needed to ensure global food safety.

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

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

When less is more: The association between the expression of polymorphic CYPs and AFB1-induced HCC

BACKGROUND

An individual's genetic fingerprint is emerging as a pivotal predictor of numerous disease- and treatment-related factors. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in drug-metabolizing enzymes play key roles in an individual's exposure to a malignancy-associated risk, such as Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1)-induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

AIM

This study aimed at reviewing literature on the polymorphisms that exist in CYP enzymes and their possible link with susceptibility to AFB1-induced HCC.

MATERIALS & METHODS

A set of keywords associated with the study subject of interest was used to search the Google Scholar and the PubMed database. The last ten years' worth of research projects were included in the results filter. The research involved HCC patients and any connection between polymorphic forms of CYP enzymes and their susceptibility to AFB1-induced HCC, including older but significant data.

RESULTS

Variations in CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 were reported to impact the rate and magnitude of AFB1 bio-activation, thus influencing an individual's vulnerability to develop HCC. In HCC patients, the activity of CYP isoforms varies, where increased activity has been reported with CYP2C9, CYP2D6, and CYP2E1, while CYP1A2, CYP2C8, and CYP2C19 exhibit decreased activity. CYP2D6*10 frequency has been discovered to differ considerably in HCC patients. Rs2740574 (an upstream polymorphism in CYP3A4 as detected in CYP3A4*1B) and rs776746 (which affects CYP3A5 RNA splicing), both of which influence CYP3A expression, thus impacting the variability of AFB1-epoxide adducts in HCC patients.

DISCUSSION

CYP1A2 is the primary enzyme accountable for the formation of harmful AFBO globally. CYP3A4, CYP3A5, CYP3A7, CYP2B7, and CYP3A3 are also implicated in the bio-activation of AFB1 to mutagenic metabolites. It is thought that CYP3A4 is the protein that interacts with AFB1 metabolism the most.

CONCLUSION

Polymorphic variants of CYP enzymes have a functional impact on the susceptibility to AFB1-induced HCC. Outlining such variation and their implications may provide deeper insights into approaching HCC in a more personalized manner for guiding future risk-assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.

Aflatoxin B1 induces ROS-dependent mitophagy by modulating the PINK1/Parkin pathway in HepG2 cells

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is extremely harmful to both humans and animals. Mitophagy is a selective process of self-elimination and has an important role in controlling mitochondrial quality. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation on AFB1-induced mitophagy in HepG2 cells to provide a new perspective from which to design novel therapeutic strategies to treat AFB1 poisoning. ROS release was induced in HepG2 cells with AFB1 (10 μmol/L). Cell autophagy activity, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels, Parkin translocation and both the transcription and expression of mitophagy-related proteins were measured when N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) partially decreased the ROS level, while the knockdown of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) resulted in a large accumulation of ROS. The results reveal that NAC pretreatment ameliorated the decline in both the MMP and the ATP levels while also activating phosphoglycerate mutase 5 (PGAM5)-PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1)/Parkin, while the Nrf2 knockdown group exhibited the opposite trend. These results suggest that AFB1-induced mitophagy in HepG2 cells depends on ROS, and proper ROS activates mitophagy to play a protective role.

A sandwich-type photoelectrochemical biosensor based on Ru(bpy)32+ sensitized In2S3 for aflatoxin B1 detection

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), classified as a class I carcinogen, is a widespread mycotoxin that poses a serious threat to public health and economic development, and the food safety problems caused by AFB1 have aroused worldwide concern. The development of accurate and sensitive methods for the detection of AFB1 is significant for food safety monitoring. In this work, a sandwich-type photoelectrochemical (PEC) biosensor for AFB1 detection was constructed on the basis of an aptamer-antibody structure. A good photocurrent response was obtained due to the sensitization of In2S3 by Ru(bpy)32+. In addition, this sandwich-type sensor constructed by modification with the antibody, target detector, and aptamer layer by layer attenuated the migration hindering effect of photogenerated carriers caused by the double antibody structure. The aptamer and antibody synergistically recognized and captured the target analyte, resulting in more reliable PEC response signals. CdSe@CdS QDs-Apt were modified as a signal-off probe onto the sensor platform to quantitatively detect AFB1 with a "signal-off" response, which enhanced the sensitivity of the sensor. The PEC biosensor showed a linear response range from 10-12 to 10-6 g mL-1 with a detection limit of 0.023 pg mL-1, providing a feasible approach for the quantitative detection of AFB1 in food samples.

Fungal profile, levels of aflatoxin M1, exposure, and the risk characterization of local cheese 'wagashi' consumed in the Ho Municipality, Volta Region, Ghana

Wagashi is a West African type cottage cheese locally prepared from cow milk. Wagashi like other milk products, is prone to microbial contamination, particularly by fungi. Many of these fungal species produce mycotoxins which are of serious public health concern. This work aimed to update the mycoflora profile and determine the concentrations of aflatoxin M1 and its health risk characterization due to the consumption of wagashi. Culturing the wagashi on mycological media (Oxytetracycline Glucose Yeast Extract OGYE, Dichloran Rose Bengal Chloramphenicol DRBC) caused a de-novo growth of the quiescent spores at 28-30 °C for 5-7 days. The analysis of AFM1 levels in the samples was done using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography connected to a Fluorescence detector (HPLC-FLD). The exposure and risk assessment to the AFMI levels were determined using deterministic models prescribed by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). The fungal counts ranged between 2.36-4.30 log10 CFU/g. In total, thirteen (13) fungal species from eight (8) genera were isolated from all wagashi samples. They are; Fusarium oxysporum, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium verticillioides, Penicillium digitatum, Trichoderma harzianum, Aspergillus terreus, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa, Rhizopus stolonifer, Aspergillus fumigatus, Yeast sp., Mucor racemosus and Fusarium oligosporum belonging to the genera Fusarium, Aspergillus, Penicillium, Trichoderma, Rhodotorula, Rhizopus, Yeast, and Mucor. The AFM1 observed in the wagashi samples' analysis was low, ranging from 0.00 (Not Detected) ± 0.00 - 0.06 ± 0.002 µg/Kg. Risk assessments of AFM1 using deterministic models produced outcomes that ranged between 5.92 × 10-3- 0.14 ng/kg bw/day, 1.42 -44.35, 0-0.0323 ng aflatoxins/kg bw/day, and 1.51 × 10-3 - 9.69 × 10-4 cases/100,000 person/yr for estimated daily intake (EDI), margin of exposure (MOE), average potency, and cancer risks, respectively, for the age categories investigated. Fungal counts were interpreted as medium to high. It was also established that the consumption of wagashi may pose adverse health effects on all age categories in the selected zones of the study since all calculated MOE values were less than 100,000.

Toxicodynamic of combined mycotoxins: MicroRNAs and acute-phase proteins as diagnostic biomarkers

Mycotoxins, ubiquitous contaminants in food, present a global threat to human health and well-being. Mitigation efforts, such as the implementation of sound agricultural practices, thorough food processing, and the advancement of mycotoxin control technologies, have been instrumental in reducing mycotoxin exposure and associated toxicity. To comprehensively assess mycotoxins and their toxicodynamic implications, the deployment of effective and predictive strategies is imperative. Understanding the manner of action, transformation, and cumulative toxic effects of mycotoxins, moreover, their interactions with food matrices can be gleaned through gene expression and transcriptome analyses at cellular and molecular levels. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) govern the expression of target genes and enzymes that play pivotal roles in physiological, pathological, and toxicological responses, whereas acute phase proteins (APPs) exert regulatory control over the metabolism of therapeutic agents, both endogenously and posttranscriptionally. Consequently, this review aims to consolidate current knowledge concerning the regulatory role of miRNAs in the initiation of toxicological pathways by mycotoxins and explores the potential of APPs as biomarkers following mycotoxin exposure. The findings of this research highlight the potential utility of miRNAs and APPs as indicators for the detection and management of mycotoxins in food through biological processes. These markers offer promising avenues for enhancing the safety and quality of food products.

The relationship between aflatoxin B1 with the induction of extrinsic/intrinsic pathways of apoptosis and the protective role of taraxasterol in TM3 leydig cell line

Aflatoxins B1 (AFB1) a dangerous type of aflatoxin, poses a serious threat to human health. Meanwhile, Taraxasterol, a bioactive compound in dandelion, exhibits strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the impact of AFB1 on the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways of apoptosis, as well as evaluate the protective role of taraxasterol in the TM3 Leydig cell line. Cell viability was evaluated using an MTT assay, measuring the effects of 3.6 µM AFB1 and varying concentrations of taraxasterol. Expression levels of Caspase 3,8, and 9 were analyzed with RT-qPCR, and flow cytometry was used to assess cell cycle progression and apoptotic alterations. The findings of this study demonstrated that exposure to 3.6 µM of AFB1 resulted in an upregulation of Caspase 3 and Caspase 9 expression, indicating an activation of apoptotic pathways in TM3 cells. Additionally, the analysis of apoptosis revealed a significant increase in cellular apoptosis at this AFB1 concentration. However, when TM3 cells were exposed to 5 µM of taraxasterol, a downregulation of Caspase 3 and Caspase 9 expression was observed, suggesting a protective effect against apoptosis. Moreover, the apoptotic rate in TM3 cells was reduced in the presence of 5 µM of taraxasterol. Consequently, this study highlights the potential of taraxasterol as a protective agent against AFB1-induced apoptosis and suggest its potential application in regulating cell survival and apoptosis-related processes. Further investigations are necessary to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and evaluate the clinical implications of taraxasterol in the context of fertility disorders and other conditions associated with AFB1 exposure.

Genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of aflatoxin on the reproductive system: Focus on cell cycle dynamics and apoptosis in testicular tissue

Aflatoxins (AFs) are inevitable environmental contaminants that are detrimental to human and animal health. AFs interfere with metabolic processes, metabolizing into different hydroxylated derivatives in the liver, as well as mechanistically induce ROS accumulation, S-phase arrest, DNA damage, and cell apoptosis. Chronic consumption of aflatoxin-contaminated foods can adversely affect the male reproductive system, cause testicular damage, prevent testosterone synthesis, decline sperm quality, and cause infertility. Oxidative stress is the fundamental pathogenesis of aflatoxin-induced reproductive toxicity. The overproduction of reactive oxygen substances can cause testicular failure and disturb the process of spermatogenesis. Mitochondria are susceptible to being impaired by oxidative stress, and its damage is associated with infertility. AFs also disturb the process of spermatogenesis by disrupting the regulation of genes related to the progression of the cell cycle such as cyclins and inducing genes related to apoptosis, thereby weakening fertility and negatively affecting the testicular endocrine potential by suppressing androgen synthesis. Additionally, AFs downregulate ERα expression, potentially negatively impacting spermatogenesis by enhancing the apoptotic mechanism. In this review, we provide new insights into the genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of AFB1 on the male reproductive system with a focus on the cell cycle and apoptosis destruction of testicular tissue.

A dual-signal aptasensor based on cascade amplification for ultrasensitive detection of aflatoxin B1

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is considered as a serious carcinogenic mycotoxin that was widely detected in grains and foods, and its sensitive analysis is of key importance to avoid the health threats for consumers. In this study, a dual-signal aptasensor based on cascade of entropy-driven strand displacement reaction (ESDR) and linear rolling circle amplification (LRCA) was fabricated for ultrasensitive determination of AFB1. At the sensing system, the complementary strand would be released after the aptamer combined with AFB1, which will bring about the functional domains exposed, triggering the subsequent ESDR. Meanwhile, the two strands that were outputted by ESDR would incur the downstream LRCA reaction to produce a pair of long strands to assist in the generation of fluorescence and absorbance signals. Under the optimized conditions, the proposed aptasensor could achieve excellent sensitivity (limit of detection, 0.427 pg/mL) with satisfactory accuracy (recoveries, 92.8-107.9 %; RSD, 2.4-5.0 %), mainly ascribed to the cascade amplification. Importantly, owing to the flexibility design of nucleic acid primer, this analytical method can be applied in monitoring various hazardous substances according to the specific requirements. Our strategy provides some novel insights at signal amplification for rapid detection of AFB1 and other targets.

Exosomal ncRNAs: Multifunctional contributors to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignant liver cancer characterized by aggressive progression, unfavorable prognosis, and an increasing global health burden. Therapies that precisely target immunological checkpoints and immune cells have gained significant attention as possible therapeutics in recent years. In truth, the efficacy of immunotherapy is heavily contingent upon the tumor microenvironment (TME). Recent studies have indicated that exosomes serve as a sophisticated means of communication among biomolecules, executing an essential part in the TME of immune suppression. Exosomal non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) can induce the activation of tumor cells and immunosuppressive immune cells that suppress the immune system, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs), CD+8 T cells, regulatory T cells (Tregs), and regulatory B cells (Bregs). This cell-cell crosstalk triggered by exosomal ncRNAs promotes tumor proliferation and metastasis, angiogenesis, malignant phenotype transformation, and drug resistance. Hence, it is imperative to comprehend how exosomal ncRNAs regulate tumor cells or immune cells within the TME to devise more comprehensive and productive immunotherapy programs. This study discusses the features of exosomal ncRNAs in HCC and how the activation of the exosomes redefines the tumor's immunosuppressive microenvironment, hence facilitating the advancement of HCC. Furthermore, we also explored the potential of exosomal ncRNAs as a viable biological target or natural vehicle for HCC therapy.

Chemical-induced liver cancer: an adverse outcome pathway perspective

INTRODUCTION

The evaluation of the potential carcinogenicity is a key consideration in the risk assessment of chemicals. Predictive toxicology is currently switching toward non-animal approaches that rely on the mechanistic understanding of toxicity.

AREAS COVERED

Adverse outcome pathways (AOPs) present toxicological processes, including chemical-induced carcinogenicity, in a visual and comprehensive manner, which serve as the conceptual backbone for the development of non-animal approaches eligible for hazard identification. The current review provides an overview of the available AOPs leading to liver cancer and discusses their use in advanced testing of liver carcinogenic chemicals. Moreover, the challenges related to their use in risk assessment are outlined, including the exploitation of available data, the need for semantic ontologies, and the development of quantitative AOPs.

EXPERT OPINION

To exploit the potential of liver cancer AOPs in the field of risk assessment, 3 immediate prerequisites need to be fulfilled. These include developing human relevant AOPs for chemical-induced liver cancer, increasing the number of AOPs integrating quantitative toxicodynamic and toxicokinetic data, and developing a liver cancer AOP network. As AOPs and other areas in the field continue to evolve, liver cancer AOPs will progress into a reliable and robust tool serving future risk assessment and management.

Development of a sensitive simultaneous analytical method for 26 targeted mycotoxins in coix seed and Monte Carlo simulation-based exposure risk assessment for local population

Coix seed, a versatile agricultural product, is known for its nutritional and functional components. However, the common contamination with mycotoxins represents a potential risk for human health. A sensitive analytical method was developed and validated to simultaneously determine 26 mycotoxins, including regulated and emerging, using stable-isotope-dilution-assay and LC-MS/MS. The study found co-contamination in 100% of samples from Southeast China, with 8-15 different mycotoxins for each and a total of 20 for all. Probabilistic risk assessments indicated long-term health concerns, with Aflatoxin B1, ochratoxin A, and zearalenone being priority for risk control. Overall, this study appears to be the first to develop a rapid and robust analytical method of 26 mycotoxins and to conduct Monte Carlo simulation-based chronic risk assessments for 12 individual mycotoxins detected in coix seed, which would be of significance for risk communication as well as for regulatory authority in devising effective strategies to minimize exposure health risk.

The Ameliorative Role of Lico A on Aflatoxin B1-Triggered Hepatotoxicity Partially by Activating Nrf2 Signal Pathway

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is one of the most harmful and toxic mycotoxins in foods and feeds, posing a serious health risk to both humans and animals, especially its hepatotoxicity. Nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), an important nuclear transcription factor, is generally recognized as a potential target for phytochemicals to ameliorate liver injury. The current study sought to elucidate the molecular processes by which licochalcone A (Lico A), a compound derived from Xinjiang licorice Glycyrrhiza inflate, protects against AFB1 toxicity. In vivo, male wild-type (WT) and Nrf2 knockout (Nrf2-/-) C57BL/6 mice were orally administered AFB1 at 1.5 mg/kg body weight (BW) with or without Lico A at 5 mg/kg. In vitro, AML12 cells were utilized to evaluate the protective effect and mechanism of Lico A against the AFB1-induced hepatotoxicity. Our findings demonstrated that AFB1 caused severe hepatotoxicity, while Lico A treatment successfully relieved the toxicity. Meanwhile, Lico A effectively improved liver injury, inflammatory mediators, oxidative insults, apoptosis, liver fibrosis, and pyroptosis, which contributed to the inhibition of toll receptor 4 (TLR4)-NF-κB/MAPK and NOD-like receptors protein 3 (NLRP3)/caspase-1/GSDMD signaling pathway activation. Furthermore, Lico A was able to enhance the Nrf2 antioxidant signaling pathway. Intriguingly, Lico A still had a protective effect on AFB1-caused liver injury in mice via the inhibition of inflammation and pyroptosis, while apoptosis and liver fibrosis were blocked in the absence of Nrf2. To sum up, the present study first elucidated that Lico A ameliorated AFB1-induced hepatotoxic effects and its main mechanism involved the inhibitory effects on oxidative stress, apoptosis, liver fibrosis, inflammation, and pyroptosis, which might be partially dependent on the regulation of Nrf2. The work may enrich the role and mechanism of Lico A's resistance to liver injury caused by various factors, and its application is promising.

Co-Occurrence of Aflatoxin B1, Zearalenone and Ochratoxin A in Feed and Feed Materials in Central Italy from 2018 to 2022

Mycotoxin contamination of feed and feed materials represent a serious health hazard. This study details the occurrence of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), zearalenone (ZEN) and ochratoxin A (OTA) in 826 feed and 617 feed material samples, collected in two Italian Regions (Umbria and Marche) from 2018 to 2022 analyzed using a UPLC-FLD platform. The developed method was validated and accredited (ISO/IEC 17025) with satisfactory accuracy and precision data obtained in repeatability and intralaboratory reproducibility conditions. Feed had a higher incidence of contaminated samples (26%) with respect to feed materials (6%). AFB1 was found up to 0.1045 mg/kg in cattle feeds and 0.1234 mg/kg in maize; ZEN was detected up to 6.420 mg/kg in sheep feed while OTA was rarely reported and in lower concentrations (up to 0.085 mg/kg). Co-contamination of at least two mycotoxins was reported in 0.8% of the analyzed samples. The incidence of above maximum content/guidance level samples was 2% for feed and feed materials while almost 3-fold-higher for maize (5.8%) suggesting how mycotoxin contamination can affect some matrices more than others. Obtained data can be useful to improve official monitoring plans and therefore further raise awareness of this issue between agriculture stakeholders, healthcare entities and non-professionals.

Lipidomic profiling study on neurobehavior toxicity in zebrafish treated with aflatoxin B1

Mycotoxin aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) has been proven to cause neurotoxicity, but its potential interference with the normal function of brain tissue is not fully defined. As the indispensable role of lipids in maintaining the normal function of brain tissue, the aim of this study is to clarify the effect of AFB1 short-term (7 days) exposure on brain tissue from the perspective of lipid metabolism. In this study, zebrafish were exposed to two concentrations (5, 20 μg/L). Through quantitative analysis of AFB1, the detection of AFB1 in zebrafish brain tissue was discovered for the first time, combined with the changes in zebrafish neurobehavior, the occurrence of brain injury was deduced. Subsequently, 1734 lipids in zebrafish brain tissue were mapped using ion mobility time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-IMS-MS), which has great advantages in lipid detection. Comparative analysis of the abnormal lipid metabolism in zebrafish brain revealed 114 significantly changed lipids, mainly involving two pathways of sphingolipid metabolism and fatty acid degradation. This study discovered the detection of AFB1 in the brain and revealed a potential link between AFB1-induced behavioral abnormalities and lipid metabolism disorders in brain tissue, providing reliable evidence for elucidating the neurotoxicity of AFB1.

Could alder buckthorn (Frangula alnus Mill) be a source of chemotherapeutics effective against hepato- and colorectal carcinoma? An in vitro study

Among numerous types of cancer, hepatocellular and colorectal carcinoma are important causes of mortality. Given the nature of these cancer types and their resistance, it is of great importance to find new chemotherapeutics and therapy targets, so plant products seem to be an excellent choice in such search. The main goal of this study was to investigate anticancer activity of Frangula alnus ethyl-acetate extract (FA) and its dominant constituent emodin (E) on hepatocellular and colorectal carcinoma cell lines, HepG2 and HCT116, as well as on normal MRC-5 fibroblasts. Cytotoxicity was investigated in MTT test and both FA and E showed strong reduction of cell viability in cancer cells. Flow cytometer analysis demonstrated that FA and E led to G1 phase arrest and slight accumulation of cells in the G2/M phase; additionally, annexinV-FITC/7AAD dying showed that FA and E decreased cell viability and triggered apoptosis in all cell lines. FA and E evidenced strong genotoxic potential in comet assay performed on all cell lines, while tests measuring antioxidative potential (DPPH and TBA) demonstrated strong effect of FA. It could be concluded that both FA and E have significant anticancer activity against hepatocellular and colorectal carcinoma cell lines HepG2 and HCT116, but notable selectivity was not observed.

Aflatoxin B1 triggers apoptosis in rabbit hepatocytes via mediating oxidative stress and switching on the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is considered the most toxic carcinogenic compound, and exposure to AFB1 is highly associated with hepatocellular carcinoma. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different doses of AFB1 on growth performance and the liver of rabbits, as well as explore its underlying mechanisms. A total of eighty 30-day-old meat rabbits were randomly divided into four treatments. The control group was fed a pollution-free diet, while the AFL, AFM, and AFH groups were fed contaminated diets containing 13 μg/kg, 19 μg/kg, and 25 μg/kg of AFB1, respectively. The results showed that AFB1 had detrimental effects on the production performance of rabbits, resulting in decreased weight gain. Additionally, AFB1 exposure was associated with increased activity of Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), as well as decreased levels of total protein (TP) and albumin (ALB) in the serum. AFB1 induced the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) while inhibiting the activity of glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) activity in liver tissues. AFB1 decreased the mRNA transcription and protein expression of nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and NAD(P)H dehydrogenase quinone-1 (NQO-1). AFB1 not only decreased the contents of cytochrome P4501A2 (CYP1A2), cytochrome P4502A6 (CYP2A6) and cytochrome P4503A4 (CYP3A4) but also increased the content of AFB1-DNA adducts in the liver. Furthermore, AFB1 enhanced the expression of cytochrome c (cyt-c), caspase-9, caspase-3, and Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), while inhibiting the expression of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2). Therefore, we demonstrated that AFB1 triggered apoptosis in rabbit hepatocytes via mediating oxidative stress and switching on the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway, and decreased rabbit performance.

An emerging research: the role of hepatocellular carcinoma-derived exosomal circRNAs in the immune microenvironment

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common primary malignancy of the liver, is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death and is associated with a poor prognosis. The tumor microenvironment (TME) of HCC comprises immune, immunosuppressive, and interstitial cells with hypoxic, angiogenic, metabolic reprogramming, inflammatory, and immunosuppressive features. Exosomes are nanoscale extracellular vesicles that secrete biologically active signaling molecules such as deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA), microribonucleic acid (miRNA), proteins, and lipids. These signaling molecules act as messengers in the tumor microenvironment, especially the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment. Exosomal circRNAs reshape the tumor microenvironment by prompting hypoxic stress response, stimulating angiogenesis, contributing to metabolic reprogramming, facilitating inflammatory changes in the HCC cells and inducing tumor immunosuppression. The exosomes secreted by HCC cells carry circRNA into immune cells, which intervene in the activation of immune cells and promote the overexpression of immune checkpoints to regulate immune response, leading tumor cells to acquire immunosuppressive properties. Furthermore, immunosuppression is the final result of a combination of TME-related factors, including hypoxia, angiogenesis, metabolic reprogramming, and inflammation changes. In conclusion, exosomal circRNA accelerates the tumor progression by adjusting the phenotype of the tumor microenvironment and ultimately forming an immunosuppressive microenvironment. HCC-derived exosomal circRNA can affect HCC cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and induction of chemoresistance. Therefore, this review aimed to summarize the composition and function of these exosomes, the role that HCC-derived exosomal circRNAs play in microenvironment formation, and the interactions between exosomes and immune cells. This review outlines the role of exosomal circRNAs in the malignant phenotype of HCC and provides a preliminary exploration of the clinical utility of exosomal circRNAs.

An in silico toxicogenomic approach in constructing the aflatoxin B1-mediated regulatory network of hub genes in hepatocellular carcinoma

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) can cause hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) through a mutagenic mode of action but can also lead to global changes in gene expression; however, the AFB1 network of molecular pathways involved in HCC is not known. Here, we used toxicogenomic data from human liver cells exposed to AFB1 to infer the network of AFB1-responsive molecular pathways involved in HCC. The following computational tools: STRING, MCODE, cytoHubba, iRegulon, kinase enrichment tool KEA3, and DAVID were used to identify protein-protein interaction network, hub genes, transcription factors (TFs), upstream kinases, and biological processes (BPs). Predicted molecular events were validated with an external dataset, whereas the hub genes in HCC were validated using the UALCAN database. The results revealed an association between AFB1 and the hub genes involved in the cell cycle. We identified TFs that regulate the hub genes and linked them with upstream kinases including cyclin-dependent kinases, mitogen-activated protein kinase 1, and AKT. This approach enabled the construction of the AFB1-mediated regulatory network consisting of upstream kinases, TFs, hub genes, and BPs, thus revealing the signaling hierarchy and information flow that may contribute to AFB1-induced HCC. This could be a useful tool in predicting the molecular mechanisms involved in chemical-induced diseases when available toxicogenomic data exist.

A review of iodine in plants with biofortification: Uptake, accumulation, transportation, function, and toxicity

Iodine deficiency can cause thyroid disease, a serious health problem that has been affecting humans since several years. The biofortification of plants with iodine is an effective strategy for regulating iodine content in humans. In addition, radioiodine released into the atmosphere may contaminate terrestrial ecosystem along with dry or wet deposition and its accumulation in plants may cause exposure risks to humans via food chain. Recent progress in understanding the mechanisms related to iodine uptake, elementary speciation, dynamic transportation, nutritional role, and toxicity in plants is reviewed here. First, we introduced the iodine cycle in a marine-atmosphere-land system. The content and speciation of iodine in plants under natural conditions and biofortification backgrounds were also analyzed. We then discussed the mechanisms of iodine uptake and efflux by plants. The promotion or inhibition effects of iodine on plant growth were also investigated. Finally, the participation of radioiodine in plant growth and its safety risks along the food chain were evaluated. Furthermore, future challenges and opportunities for understanding the participation of iodine in plants have been outlined.

Protective role of curcumin on broiler liver by modulating aflatoxin B1-induced DNA methylation and CYPs expression

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of epigenetic DNA methylation and CYPs expression in AFB1-exposed broiler liver and the protective effect of curcumin. Sixty-four one-day-old AA broilers were randomly divided into four groups, including control group, AFB1 group (1 mg/kg AFB1), curcumin + AFB1 group (1 mg/kg curcumin) and curcumin group (300 mg/kg curcumin). Histological observation, CYP450 enzyme activities, the expression levels of DNA methyltransferases and CYP450 enzymes, and the overall DNA methylation level in broiler liver were investigated. Dietary AFB1 was found to induce severe liver injury in broilers, upregulate the mRNA and protein expression of CYP450 enzymes (CYP1A1, CYP1A2 and CYP3A4) and the enzyme activities of CYP1A2 and CYP3A4. According to HPLC, qPCR and western blot analyses, the overall DNA methylation level and the mRNA and protein expression of DNA methyltransferases (DNMT1, DNMT3a and DNMT3b) in the liver were significantly increased after AFB1 exposure. Importantly, the Pearson test and correlation analysis data revealed that the overall DNA methylation level of broiler liver was positively correlated with DNMTs, while CYP1A1, CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 were negatively correlated. Surprisingly, curcumin supplementation strongly ameliorated AFB1-induced hepatotoxicity by restoring the histological changes, decreasing the expression and enzymatic activity of liver CYP450 enzymes (CYP1A1, CYP1A2, and CYP3A4), and increasing the overall DNA methylation level and the expression of DNMTs. Taken together, we concluded that curcumin could protect against AFB1-induced liver injury by mediating the effects of DNA methylation and CYPs expression.

Glyphosate-induced autophagy inhibition results in hepatic steatosis via mediating epigenetic reprogramming of PPARα in roosters

Glyphosate (Gly) is the most widely used herbicide with well-defined hepatotoxic effects, but the underlying mechanisms of Gly-induced hepatic steatosis remain largely unknown. In this study, a rooster model combined with primary chicken embryo hepatocytes was established to dissect the progresses and mechanisms of Gly-induced hepatic steatosis. Data showed that Gly exposure caused liver injury with disrupted lipid metabolism in roosters, manifested by significant serum lipid profile disorder and hepatic lipid accumulation. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that PPARα and autophagy-related pathways played important roles in Gly-induced hepatic lipid metabolism disorders. Further experimental results suggested that autophagy inhibition was involved in Gly-induced hepatic lipid accumulation, which was confirmed by the effect of classic autophagy inducer rapamycin (Rapa). Moreover, data substantiated that Gly-mediated autophagy inhibition caused nuclear increase of HDAC3, which altered epigenetic modification of PPARα, leading to fatty acid oxidation (FAO) inhibition and subsequently lipid accumulation in the hepatocytes. In summary, this study provides novel evidence that Gly-induced autophagy inhibition evokes the inactivation of PPARα-mediated FAO and concomitant hepatic steatosis in roosters by mediating epigenetic reprogramming of PPARα.

Protective efficacy of luteolin against aflatoxinB1-induced toxicity, oxidative damage, and apoptosis in the rat liver

One particularly harmful mycotoxin, aflatoxin B1 (AFB₁), usually triggers liver toxicity and oxidative stress in both humans and other mammals. Luteolin (LUTN), a popular active phytochemical molecule, exhibits a strong antioxidant potential. The purpose of this investigation was to explore the potential molecular mechanism in rats and determine if LUTN exhibits protective benefits against AFB₁-induced hepatotoxicity. Random selection was used to determine the four treatment groups, each consisting of 24 rats (n = 6). Physiological saline was administered to group 1 (CONT); group 2 received LUTN for a dosage of 50-mg/kg BW. AFB₁ was administered to group 3 for a dosage of 0.75-mg/kg BW, and AFB₁ with LUTN was given to group 4 at the same dosages mentioned in the previous groups. Rats intoxicated with AFB₁ alterations of hepatic transaminases, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), displayed periportal mononuclear cell infiltrations, disorganized lobular architecture, and dispersed necrotic cells in their liver tissues. By reducing serum biochemical levels of the hepatic transaminases ALT and AST brought on by AFB₁ exposure, our results demonstrated that LUTN treatment considerably restored liver injury. Through lowering the production of malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), as well as by boosting the activity of the antioxidant enzyme catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), LUTN mitigated the oxidative stress brought on by AFB₁. Our findings showed that LUTN significantly reversed the liver damage caused by AFB₁. When considered as a whole, LUTN may protect the liver from damage brought on by AFB₁ by acting as a potential mitigator and may aid in the creation of cutting-edge therapies to treat liver illnesses in humans and/or animals.

Smartphone-Facilitated Mobile Colorimetric Probes for Rapid Monitoring of Chemical Contaminations in Food: Advances and Outlook

Smartphone-derived colorimetric tools have the potential to revolutionize food safety control by enabling citizens to carry out monitoring assays. To realize this, it is of paramount significance to recognize recent study efforts and figure out important technology gaps in terms of food security. Driven by international connectivity and the extensive distribution of smartphones, along with their built-in probes and powerful computing abilities, smartphone-based sensors have shown enormous potential as cost-effective and portable diagnostic scaffolds for point-of-need tests. Meantime, the colorimetric technique is of particular notice because of its benefits of rapidity, simplicity, and high universality. In this study, we tried to outline various colorimetric platforms using smartphone technology, elucidate their principles, and explore their applications in detecting target analytes (pesticide residues, antibiotic residues, metal ions, pathogenic bacteria, toxins, and mycotoxins) considering their sensitivity and multiplexing capability. Challenges and desired future perspectives for cost-effective, accurate, reliable, and multi-functions smartphone-based colorimetric tools have also been debated.

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

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

The roles of lncRNA functions and regulatory mechanisms in the diagnosis and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most frequent and deadly type of liver cancer. While the underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly understood, it is documented that lncRNAs may play key roles. Many HCC-associated lncRNAs have been linked to HBV and HCV infection, mediating gene expression, cell growth, development, and death. Studying the regulatory mechanisms and biological functions of HCC-related lncRNAs will assist our understanding of HCC pathogenesis as well as its diagnosis and management. Here, we address the potential of dysregulated lncRNAs in HCC as diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers, and we evaluate the oncogenic or tumor-suppressive properties of these lncRNAs.

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

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

Effects of probiotic supplementation on very low dose AFB1-induced neurotoxicity in adult male rats

AIMS

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is the most toxic and common form of AF found in food and feed. Although AFB1 exposure has toxic effects on many organs, studies on the brain are limited. Moreover, to the best of our knowledge, there is no study on the effect of probiotics on AFB1-induced neurotoxicity. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the possible effects of probiotics on AFB1-induced neurotoxicity in the brain.

MAIN METHODS

Thirty-two adult male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: Vehicle (VEH), Probiotic (PRO) (2.5 × 10¹⁰ CFU/day VSL#3, orally), Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) (25 μg/kg/week AFB1, orally), and Aflatoxin B1 + Probiotic (AFB1 + PRO) (2.5 × 10¹⁰ CFU/day VSL#3 + 25 μg/kg/week AFB1, orally). At the end of eight weeks, rats were behaviorally evaluated by the open field test, novel object recognition test, and forced swim test. Then, oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in brain tissues were analyzed. Next, brain sections were processed for Hematoxylin&Eosin staining and NeuN and GFAP immunostaining.

KEY FINDINGS

Probiotic supplementation tended to decrease oxidative stress and inflammatory markers compared to the AFB1 group. Besides, brain tissues had more normal histological structures in VEH, PRO, and AFB1 + PRO groups than in the AFB1 group. Moreover, in probiotic groups, GFAP immunoreactivity intensity was decreased, while NeuN-positive cell number increased in brain tissues compared to the AFB1 group.

SIGNIFICANCE

Probiotics seem to be effective at reducing the neurotoxic effects of AFB1. Thus, our study suggested that especially Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species can improve AFB1-induced neurotoxicity with their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Synergistic Effects of Probiotic Bifidobacterium Isolated from Chicken's Intestine in Combination with Polyvinylpyrrolidone on Reduction of Aflatoxin B1

Food contamination with aflatoxin is one of the most critical concerns of health professionals. One of the best ways to reduce aflatoxin content in food is probiotics. Therefore, this study was performed to isolate Bifidobacterium from the chick's intestine; evaluate its probiotic activities and its application with Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) to reduce aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁ ) in the medium were investigated. Samples were isolated from the chick's intestine, and Bifidobacterium was isolated and identified by biochemical and molecular methods. Next, the potential probiotic characterization was assessed. Afterward, the effect of selected isolate and PVP on reducing AFB₁ in the medium was studied using ELISA and HPLC. Biochemical and molecular evaluations indicated isolation of Bifidobacterium bifidum strain from chick's intestine. One of the B. bifidum strains was selected for the next steps, which showed potential probiotic characterization and the ability to reduce the concentration of AFB₁ in the medium (50% reduction). When used in combination with PVP showed synergistic effects in reducing the concentration of AFB₁ from the medium (up to 90%). In conclusion, it was found that selected B. bifidum strains and PVP could have synergistic effects in reducing AFB₁ toxin in a medium up to 90%.

Development of carbon quantum dot-based lateral flow immunoassay for sensitive detection of aflatoxin M1 in milk

Currently, there is a great demand for simple, sensitive, and accurate sensors for aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) in dairy products. In the present research, a novel fluorescent immunosensor based on nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dots (CQDs) has been developed for AFM1 analysis. The N-doped CQDs were synthesized through the hydrothermal approach using citric acid and polyethyleneimine as precursors. The CQDs showed bright blue emission under ultraviolet light irradiation and a maximum emission was observed at 450 nm upon excitation at 350 nm. The anti-AFM1 antibody (Ab) was immobilized on the as-obtained amine-functionalized CQDs and the obtained CQDs/Ab probe was then directly used for developing the immunoassays for AFM1. The fluorescence of the CQDs/Ab solution was effectively quenched in the presence of increasing AFM1 concentrations. Under the optimized conditions, the fluorescent nanosensor exhibited high sensitivity towards AFM1 in the range of 0.2-0.8 ng/mL with low limit of detection i.e., 0.07 ng/mL in standard buffer. Furthermore, the CQDs/Ab immunosensor was developed as a lateral flow design for detecting the aflatoxin residues in milk. This strategy can be used for the development of low-cost, rapid, and highly sensitive sensor strips for the detection of AFM1 in dairy products.

Selective and Sensitive Electrochemical Sensor for Aflatoxin M1 with a Molybdenum Disulfide Quantum Dot/Metal-Organic Framework Nanocomposite

Aflatoxins are the hepatotoxic secondary metabolites which are highly carcinogenic and known to cause several adverse effects on human health. The present study reports a simple, sensitive, and novel electrochemical sensor for aflatoxin M1 (AFM1). The sensor has been fabricated by modifying the screen-printed carbon electrodes with a functional nanocomposite of molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) quantum dots (QDs) and a zirconium-based metal-organic framework (MOF), that is, UiO-66-NH₂. The MoS₂/UiO-66-modified electrodes were decorated with the AFM1-specific monoclonal antibodies and then investigated for the electrochemical detection of AFM1. Based on the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis, it was possible to detect AFM1 in the concentration range of 0.2-10 ng mL^-1 with a limit of detection of 0.06 ng mL^-1. The realization of an excellent sensing performance can be attributed to the electroactivity of MoS₂ QDs and the large surface to volume area achieved by the addition of the MOF. The presence of UiO-66-NH₂ is also useful to attain readily available amine functionality for the robust interfacing of antibodies. The performance of the developed sensor has also been validated by detecting AFM1 in the spiked milk samples.

Borealin Promotes Tumor Growth and Metastasis by Activating the Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Background and Aims

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignant disease with high morbidity and mortality throughout the world. While Borealin is a putative oncogene that is dysregulated in multiple tumors, its exact role in HCC remains less investigated.

Methods

Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays were employed to examine the relative amount of Borealin. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and other bioinformatic analyses were implemented to probe into the potential functions of Borealin. The biological roles and mechanisms of Borealin in the tumorigenesis and development of HCC were further evaluated using a battery of functional assays in vivo and in vitro.

Results

Borealin was enhanced in the HCC tissue samples and hepatoma cells when compared with the nontumor tissues and normal liver cells. Higher Borealin expression was positively linked with advanced pathological phenotypes and inferior overall survival. The overexpression of Borealin promoted the cells' abilities on proliferation, invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in vitro, facilitated tumor growth and lung metastasis in vivo, whereas the silencing of Borealin inhibited these capabilities in vitro. Furthermore, Borealin interacted with β-catenin and further activated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, which endowed HCC cells with highly aggressive and metastatic capabilities.

Conclusion

Borealin was identified as an oncogene that could promote HCC growth and metastasis by activating the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway. These findings extended the understanding of Borealin in HCC tumorigenesis and development and highlighted the significance of Borealin in HCC diagnosis and treatment.

Effects of Ganfule capsule on microbial and metabolic profiles in anti-hepatocellular carcinoma

AIMS

Based on the gut microbiota and plasma metabolites, the underlying mechanism was analysed for the anti-hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) effects of Ganfule capsule (GFL) in the study.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The UPLC-Q-TOF/MS results showed that 13 key compounds were identified in GFL and the major active ingredients included amygdalin, saikosaponin A, astragaloside I, etc. The nude mice received HepG2 injection, and GFL showed lower volume and weight of the tumour. In addition, the apoptosis proteins (Bax and Bcl2) were altered in response to GFL treatment, and apoptosis cells were increased, indicating an anti-HCC effect. Interestingly, 16S rDNA results showed that GFL treatment improved gut microbiota diversity and compositions, especially for the beneficial bacteria, such as Bacilli, Lactobacillales, Lactobacillus, Lactobacillaceae, Firmicutes, Lactobacillus_reuteri and Lactobacillus_gasseri. Metabonomics further identified 426 metabolites and 343 metabolites variation in the positive and negative ion modes after GFL treatment, which might be associated with amino acid, lipid metabolism and carbohydrate metabolism pathways, indicating these metabolites might involve in the protective role of GFL in HCC. Correlation analysis showed a significant relationship between gut microbiota and plasma metabolites.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, GFL exerted an anti-HCC effect in the nude murine model, which might be associated with microbial and metabolic improvements.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

This study is the first to report the anti-HCC effect of GFL associated with gut microbiota and plasma metabolites. GFL may improve the gut microbiota structure, such as increasing probiotics - Lactobacillus. It also provides a new strategy for the scientific demonstration of the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine.

MicroRNA regulates the toxicological mechanism of four mycotoxins in vivo and in vitro

Mycotoxins can cause body poisoning and induce carcinogenesis, often with a high mortality rate. Therefore, it is of great significance to seek new targets that indicate mycotoxin activity and to diagnose and intervene in mycotoxin-induced diseases in their early stages. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are physiological regulators whose dysregulation is closely related to the development of diseases. They are thus important markers for the occurrence and development of diseases. In this review, consideration is given to the toxicological mechanisms associated with four major mycotoxins (ochratoxin A, aflatoxin B1, deoxynivalenol, and zearalenone). The roles that miRNAs play in these mechanisms and the interactions between them and their target genes are explained, and summarize the important role of histone modifications in their toxicity. As a result, the ways that miRNAs are regulated in the pathogenicity signaling pathways are revealed which highlights the roles played by miRNAs in preventing and controlling the harmful effects of the mycotoxins. It is hoped that this review will provide a theoretical basis for the prevention and control of the damage caused by these mycotoxins.

Review: Challenges of In Vitro CAF Modelling in Liver Cancers

Simple Summary

Liver cancer and tumours spreading from other organs to the liver are associated with high death rates. Current treatments include surgical removal of the tumour and chemotherapy. Unfortunately, patients are often re-diagnosed with liver nodules in the years after cessation of the treatment. Therefore, scientists are looking for alternative treatment strategies, and these include targeting the tumour environment. The tumour environment includes the cancer-associated fibroblasts, which could be an interesting target for therapy in combination with current strategies. In this review paper we summarize the current models to investigate the effect of the tumour on the cancer-associated fibroblasts. Not many studies focus on the cancer-associated fibroblasts in non-animal models and this should improve in order to better understand the role of the cancer-associated fibroblasts and to evaluate the potential of cancer-associated fibroblast-directed therapies.

Abstract

Primary and secondary liver cancer are the third cause of death in the world, and as the incidence is increasing, liver cancer represents a global health burden. Current treatment strategies are insufficient to permanently cure patients from this devastating disease, and therefore other approaches are under investigation. The importance of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the tumour microenvironment is evident, and many pre-clinical studies have shown increased tumour aggressiveness in the presence of CAFs. However, it remains unclear how hepatic stellate cells are triggered by the tumour to become CAFs and how the recently described CAF subtypes originate and orchestrate pro-tumoural effects. Specialized in vitro systems will be needed to address these questions. In this review, we present the currently used in vitro models to study CAFs in primary and secondary liver cancer and highlight the trend from using oversimplified 2D culture systems to more complex 3D models. Relatively few studies report on the impact of cancer (sub)types on CAFs and the tumour microenvironment, and most studies investigated the impact of secreted factors due to the nature of the models.

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

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

Gene expression network related to DNA methylation and miRNA regulation during the process of aflatoxin B1-induced malignant transformation of L02 cells

Aflatoxin is a secondary metabolite secreted by Aspergillus flavus, parasitic Aspergillus, and other fungi through the polyketone pathway, and it can be detected in many foods. Aflatoxin has strong toxicity and carcinogenicity, and many studies have shown that aflatoxin is highly associated with liver cancer. In the present study, malignant transformation of L02 cells was induced by aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), and the gene expression, miRNA expression, and methylation level were detected by high-throughput sequencing. The gene and miRNA expression results showed that 2547 genes and 315 miRNAs were changed in the AFB1-treated group compared with the DMSO group. Among them, RSAD2 and SCIN were significantly upregulated, whereas TRAPPC3L and UBE2L6 were significantly downregulated. Has-miR-33b-3p was significantly upregulated, whereas Has-miR-3613-5p was significantly downregulated. The methylation results showed that 2832 CpG sites were methylated on the promoter or coding DNA sequence (CDS) of the gene, whereas the expression of DNMT3a and DNMT3b was significantly upregulated. Moreover, hypermethylation occurred in TRAPPC3L, CDH13, and SPINK13. The results of GO and KEGG pathway analyses showed that significantly changed genes and miRNAs were mainly involved in tumor formation, proliferation, invasion, and migration. The results of network map analysis showed that Hsa-miR-3613-5p, Hsa-miR-615-5p, Hsa-miR-615-3p, and Hsa-miR-3158-3p were the key miRNAs for malignant transformation of L02 cells induced by AFB1. In addition, the expression of ONECUT2, RAP1GAP2, and FSTL4 was regulated by DNA methylation and miRNAs. These results suggested that the gene expression network regulated by DNA methylation and miRNAs may play a vital role in AFB1-induced hepatocellular carcinoma.

Aflatoxins: History, Significant Milestones, Recent Data on Their Toxicity and Ways to Mitigation

In the early 1960s the discovery of aflatoxins began when a total of 100,000 turkey poults died by hitherto unknown turkey "X" disease in England. The disease was associated with Brazilian groundnut meal affected by Aspergillus flavus. The toxin was named Aspergillus flavus toxin-aflatoxin. From the point of view of agriculture, aflatoxins show the utmost importance. Until now, a total of 20 aflatoxins have been described, with B1, B2, G1, and G2 aflatoxins being the most significant. Contamination by aflatoxins is a global health problem. Aflatoxins pose acutely toxic, teratogenic, immunosuppressive, carcinogenic, and teratogenic effects. Besides food insecurity and human health, aflatoxins affect humanity at different levels, such as social, economical, and political. Great emphasis is placed on aflatoxin mitigation using biocontrol methods. Thus, this review is focused on aflatoxins in terms of historical development, the principal milestones of aflatoxin research, and recent data on their toxicity and different ways of mitigation.

Smartphone-based reading system integrated with phycocyanin-enhanced latex nanospheres immunoassay for on-site determination of aflatoxin B1 in foodstuffs

Traditional methods for aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) detection are complex, time-consuming, labor-intensive, and high cost. Moreover, they require sophisticated large-scale instrumentation, which limits their on-site rapid detection. Herein, phycocyanin fluorescent nanospheres based on fluorescence immunochromatographic assay were developed for quantitative detection of AFB1 at parts-per-billion (ppb) levels in foodstuffs. Phycocyanin and anti-AFB1 monoclonal antibodies were coupled on the surface of latex nanospheres to amplify the fluorescence signal and improve the sensitivity. The fluorescence intensity was measured by a self-developed smartphone-based reading system. Under the optimal conditions, this approach achieved quantitative point-of-care detection of AFB1 within 25 min. The calibration curve for AFB1 was linear in the range of 0.2-48 ppb, and the limit of detection was 0.16 ppb. The practical applicability of the proposed approach was demonstrated by the determination of AFB1 in naturally contaminated samples, and the results were consistent with HPLC detection.

AFB1-induced mice liver injury involves mitochondrial dysfunction mediated by mitochondrial biogenesis inhibition

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) pollutes foodstuffs and feeds, causing a food safety problem and seriously endangering human and animal health. Liver is the principal organ for AFB1 accumulation and biotransformation, during which AFB1 can cause acute and chronic liver damage, however, the specific mechanism is not completely clear. Mitochondria are the primary organelle of cellular bio-oxidation, providing 95% energy for liver to execute its multiple functions. Therefore, we speculated that mitochondrial dysfunction is involved in AFB1-induced liver injury. To verify the hypothesis, a total of eighty healthy male mice were randomly divided into four groups on average, and exposed with 0, 0.375, 0.75 and 1.5 mg/kg body weight AFB1 by intragastric administration for 30 d. The results displayed that AFB1 triggered liver injury accompanied by oxidative stress. AFB1 exposure also damaged mitochondria structure, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), as well as increased cytoplasmic cytochrome c (Cyt-c) protein expression, Bax, p53, Caspase-3/9 protein and/or mRNA expression levels and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated 2'-deoxyuridine-5'-triphosphate (dUTP) nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining positive cells in mice liver. Meanwhile, AFB1 exposure elevated pyruvate content, inhibited tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle rate-limiting enzymes and electron transport chain (ETC) complexes I-V activities, disturbed ETC complexes I-V subunits mRNA expression levels and reduced adenosine triphosphate (ATP) level in mice liver. These results indicated that AFB1 destroyed mitochondrial structure, activated mitochondrion-dependent apoptosis and induced mitochondrial dysfunction. In addition, AFB1 disrupted mitochondrial biogenesis, presented as the abnormalities of protein and/or gene expression levels of voltage dependent anion channel protein 1 (VDAC1), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), nuclear respiratory factor 1 (Nrf1) and mitochondrial transcription factor A (Tfam). This may contribute to hepatic and mitochondrial lesions induced by AFB1. These results provide a new perspective for elucidating the mechanisms of AFB1 hepatotoxicity.

Transcriptomics and flow cytometry reveals the cytotoxicity of aflatoxin B1 and aflatoxin M1 in bovine mammary epithelial cells

Aflatoxin is a known mycotoxin that pollutes various grains widely in the environment. Aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) and Aflatoxin M₁ (AFM₁) have been shown to induce cytotoxicity in many cells, yet their effects on mammary epithelial cells remain unclear. In this study, we examined the toxicity and the effects of AFB₁ and AFM₁ on bovine mammary epithelial cells (BME cells). The cells were treated with AFB₁ or AFM₁ at a concentration of 0-10 mg/L for 24 or 48 h, followed by cytotoxicity assays, flow cytometry, and transcriptomics. Our results demonstrated that AFB₁ and AFM₁ induced cell proliferation inhibition, apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. However, the level of intracellular reactive oxygen species has no significant difference. The RNA-Seq results also showed that AFB₁ and AFM₁ changed many related gene expressions like apoptosis and oxidative stress, cycle, junction, and signaling pathway. Taken together, AFB₁ and AFM₁ were found to affect cytotoxicity and related gene changes in BME cells. Notably, this study reported that 2 mg/L of AFB₁ and AFM₁ affected the expression of methylation-related genes, and ultimately altered the rate of m⁶A methylation in RNA. It may provide a potential direction for toxins to indirectly regulate gene expression by affecting RNA methylation modification. Our research provides some novel insights and data about AFB₁ and AFM₁ toxicity in BME cells.

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

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

Predominant Mycotoxins, Pathogenesis, Control Measures, and Detection Methods in Fermented Pastes

Fermented pastes are some of the most popular traditional products in China. Many studies reported a strong possibility that fermented pastes promote exposure to mycotoxins, including aflatoxins, ochratoxins, and cereulide, which were proven to be carcinogenic and neurotoxic to humans. The primary mechanism of pathogenicity is by inhibiting protein synthesis and inducing oxidative stress using cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes. The level of mycotoxin production is dependent on the pre-harvest or post-harvest stage. It is possible to implement methods to control mycotoxins by using appropriate antagonistic microorganisms, such as Aspergillus niger, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae isolated from ordinary foods. Also, drying products as soon as possible to avoid condensation or moisture absorption in order to reduce the water activity to lower than 0.82 during storage is also effective. Furthermore, organic acid treatment during the soaking process reduces toxins by more than 90%. Some novel detection technologies based on magnetic adsorption, aptamer probes, and molecular-based methods were applied to rapidly and accurately detect mycotoxins in fermented pastes.