Mycotoxin
Introduction
Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by microfungi that are capable of causing disease and death in humans and other animals. Because of their pharmacological activity, some mycotoxins or mycotoxin derivatives have found use as antibiotics, growth promotants, and other kinds of drugs; still others have been implicated as chemical warfare agents.
Classification
Mycotoxins have diverse chemical structures and biosynthetic origins. Hence, their classification has been carried out in various ways. They can be grouped according to the biological system affected or by their chemical structure, biosynthetic origin, or the fungal species from which they originate.
Occurrence and Health Effects
Mycotoxins are not only found in areas of high heat and humidity, where fungal growth is rampant, but also in temperate zones. Exposure to mycotoxins is mostly by ingestion, but also occurs by the dermal and inhalation routes. Mycotoxicoses are the animal diseases caused by mycotoxins; they are somewhat analogous to bacterial infections and can be either acute or chronic.
Detection and Analysis
The detection and analysis of mycotoxins are often complex due to the need to identify different mycotoxins simultaneously, the need to handle a large number of samples, and the requirement for specific and sensitive methods. Several analytical techniques are available for mycotoxin analysis, including thin-layer chromatography, high-performance liquid chromatography, and mass spectrometry.
Prevention and Control
Prevention and control of mycotoxins involve strategies such as good agricultural practices, post-harvest practices, and the use of physical, chemical, and biological methods. The use of mycotoxin-binding agents and mycotoxin-degrading agents in feed can also help to reduce the exposure of animals to these toxins.