VMC 311: Systematic Veterinary Bacteriology and Mycology (2+1)

CHARACTERISTICS OF MYCOTOXINS

• The term mycotoxin is derived from the Greek word – ‘mykes’ meaning ‘fungus’ and the Latin word – ‘toxicum’ meaning ‘poison’.
• Mycotoxins are group of compounds produced by some strains of certain fungi that cause illness or death when ingested by man or animals.
• They are low molecular weight, non-antigenic, heat stable secondary fungal metabolites.
• They can activate at low concentrations. They have a wide spectrum of toxic effects, like carcinogenic, mutagenic, teratogenic and immunosuppressive.
• Acquired immunity does not occur following exposure.
• Each toxin affects specific target organs or tissues.

Target organs/ tissues	Toxins
Vascular system	Aflatoxins
Digestive system	Aflatoxins
Mucous membrane	Trichothecane (t-2) toxin
Urinary system	Ochratoxin
Reproductive system	Zearalenone (Fusarium toxin)
Cutaneous system	Sporidesmin