Aspergillus species produce aflatoxins and raise concerns about food safety in departmental stores and manufacturing mills.To address the risks posed by aflatoxins,and to advise the public on the highest quality rice ...Aspergillus species produce aflatoxins and raise concerns about food safety in departmental stores and manufacturing mills.To address the risks posed by aflatoxins,and to advise the public on the highest quality rice that serves as a nutritious food source,an inquiry following the guidelines outlined in both local and international standards of food safety for the presence of aflatoxins is an essential requirement.Therefore,16 white rice samples were selected randomly from low/high socio-economic departmental stores from 16 different localities.Grind powdered rice filtrate was extracted using chloroform.The filtrate applied on TLC plates and the amount of aflatoxin and moisture contents were determined.In the non-infected rice,moisture content was low(9.08%)whereas high[13.65%>12%(standard>value)]in infected ones.Four out of 8 samples of low-quality rice were contaminated with AFB_(1) and AFB_(2)(ranging from 22.2 to 29.3μg/kg).All the samples except one(22.3μg/kg)from high-quality rice were certified fit despite the contamination with AFB_(1).Furthermore,phylogenetic analysis showed Aspergillus flavus from unfit low(Long grain brown and Brown basmati)and high-quality(Basmati-198)rice whereas A.parasiticus from unfit low-quality Medium-grain brown rice.The presented research proves that the detection of fungi and aflatoxins in rice grains poses a huge risk to the health of consumers.Therefore,it is necessary to check the rice grains before distribution.展开更多
Background This study was carried out to investigate the individual and combined contamination of aflatoxin B_(1)(AFB_(1)),deoxynivalenol(DON),and zearalenone(ZEN)in feeds in China between 2021 and 2024.A total of 23,...Background This study was carried out to investigate the individual and combined contamination of aflatoxin B_(1)(AFB_(1)),deoxynivalenol(DON),and zearalenone(ZEN)in feeds in China between 2021 and 2024.A total of 23,003 feed samples,including 17,489 feedstuff samples and 5,514 complete feed samples,were collected from different provinces of China for mycotoxin analysis.Results The analyzed mycotoxins displayed considerably high contamination in the feed samples,with the individual contamination of AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN were 20.0%–100%,33.3%–100%,and 85.0%–100%,respectively.The average concentrations of AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN were 1.2–728.7μg/kg,106–8,634.8μg/kg,and 18.1–3,341.6μg/kg,respectively.Notably,the rates over China’s safety standards for AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN in raw ingredients were 9.7%,2.7%,and 15.7%,respectively.Meanwhile,3.5%,1.1%,and 8.7%of analyzed complete feeds exceeded China’s safety standards for AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN,respectively.Moreover,the co-contamination rates of AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN in more than 70%of raw ingredients and 87.5%of complete feed products were 60.0%–100%and 61.5%–100%,respectively.Conclusion This study reveals that the feeds in China have commonly been contaminated with AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN alone and their combination during the past four years.These findings highlight the significance of monitoring mycotoxin contaminant levels in domestic animal feed and the importance of carrying out feed administration and remediation strategies for mycotoxin control.展开更多
Background Aflatoxins have been reported as a significant pollutant in feed,capable of causing harm to the liver,gastrointestinal tract and kidneys of piglets.However,research on the interactions among aflatoxin B1(AF...Background Aflatoxins have been reported as a significant pollutant in feed,capable of causing harm to the liver,gastrointestinal tract and kidneys of piglets.However,research on the interactions among aflatoxin B1(AFB1),bile acid(BA)metabolism and gut microbiota is limited.Methods In this study,piglets were treated with AFB1 and antibiotics(ABX)to evaluate the interaction between AFB1 and gut microbiota.Subsequently,the roles of the farnesoid X receptor(FXR)and sterol 12α-hydroxylase(CYP8B1)in AFB1 absorption were studied by using FXR agonists obeticholic acid(OCA)and Cyp8b1-knockout(KO)mice,respectively.Result AFB1 inhibited bile salt hydrolase(BSH)activity in ileal microbiota,downregulated ileal FXR expression,and upregulated CYP8B1 expression in liver,increasing the proportion of 12α-OH BAs and potentially enhancing AFB1 absorption.ABX treatment reduced AFB1 absorption and liver damage,and unexpectedly increased BSH activity,counteracting the AFB1-induced downregulation of FXR and upregulation of CYP8B1.OCA reactivated ileal FXR,reduced AFB1 absorption,and alleviated liver damage.Furthermore,Cyp8b1-KO mice showed increased resistance to AFB1-induced liver damage by lowering AFB1 absorption.Conclusions These results underscore the significance of gut microbiota and BAs in AFB1 absorption,suggesting new strategies to mitigate health risks from AFB1 in piglets.展开更多
Background AFB_(1)-8,9-exo-epoxide(AFBO)is the highly toxic product of Aflatoxin B_(1)(AFB_(1)).Glutathione S-transferases(GSTs)play pivotal roles in detoxifying AFB_(1) by catalyzing the conjugation of AFBO with glut...Background AFB_(1)-8,9-exo-epoxide(AFBO)is the highly toxic product of Aflatoxin B_(1)(AFB_(1)).Glutathione S-transferases(GSTs)play pivotal roles in detoxifying AFB_(1) by catalyzing the conjugation of AFBO with glutathione(GSH).Although there are over 20 GST isozymes that have been identified in chicken,GST isozymes involved in the detoxification process of AFB_(1) have not been identified yet.The objective of this study was to determine which GST isozymes played key role in detoxification of AFB_(1).Results A total of 17 pcDNA3.1(+)-GST isozyme plasmids were constructed and the GST isozyme genes were overexpressed by 80–2,500,000 folds in the chicken Leghorn male hepatoma(LMH)cells.Compared to the AFB_(1) treatment,overexpression of GSTA2X,GSTA3,GSTT1L,GSTZ1-1,and GSTZ1-2 increased the cell viability by 6.5%–17.0%in LMH cells.Moreover,overexpression of five GST isozymes reduced the release of lactate dehydrogenase and reactive oxygen species by 8.8%–64.4%,and 57.2%–77.6%,respectively,as well as enhanced the production AFBO-GSH by 15.8%–19.6%,thus mitigating DNA damage induced by AFB_(1).After comprehensive evaluation of various indicators,GSTA2X displayed the best detoxification effects against AFB_(1).GSTA2X was expressed in Pichia pastoris X-33 and its enzymatic properties for catalyzing the conjugation of AFBO with GSH showed that the optimum temperature and pH were 20–25℃ and 7.6–8.6 as well as the enzymatic kinetic parameter V_(max) was 0.23 nmol/min/mg and the Michaelis constant was 86.05μmol/L with the AFB_(1) as substrate.Conclusions In conclusion,GSTA2X,GSTA3,GSTT1L,GSTZ1-1,and GSTZ1-2 played key roles in AFB_(1) detoxification,which will provide new remediation strategies to prevent aflatoxicosis in chickens.展开更多
Aflatoxins B1(AFB1)contamination in agro-food holds great threaten to human and animal health.Conventional test strips for rapid AFB1 visualized monitoring remains challenged by improvement of sensitivity and matrix i...Aflatoxins B1(AFB1)contamination in agro-food holds great threaten to human and animal health.Conventional test strips for rapid AFB1 visualized monitoring remains challenged by improvement of sensitivity and matrix interference resistance.In this case,we developed a portable electrochemiluminescence(ECL)imaging test strip with dual-signal outputs for AFB1 quantification in corn samples.RuPEI@SiO_(2)@Au nanospheres were synthesized for bonding with anti-AFB1 antibody and then colorimetrical signal-reported on test line through the capillary flow at strips.Meanwhile,ECL imaging signal of the constructed carbon-ink-based working electrode on polyvinyl chloride substrate of strips was exported under an applied potential of 1.25 V.The whole ECL test strips not only endowed convenient colorimetric responses but guaranteed quick-witted ECL image distinguishment even at extremely low AFB1 content.The detection limit of this ECL imaging-integrated mode was 10-fold lower than that of only colorimetric mode.Furthermore,satisfactory selectivity,reliability and practicability of the as-proposed ECL test strips were demonstrated.This work offered a promising platform for on-site,accurate and sensitive detection of pollutants in foods.展开更多
Background Aflatoxin B_(1)(AFB_(1))risks animal and human health,and the liver is considered the most crucial detoxification organ.Phlorotannin(PT)is a polyhydroxy phenol that has a wide range of biological activities...Background Aflatoxin B_(1)(AFB_(1))risks animal and human health,and the liver is considered the most crucial detoxification organ.Phlorotannin(PT)is a polyhydroxy phenol that has a wide range of biological activities,including antioxidation and hepatoprotection,which can promote the ability of liver detoxification.This study aimed to elucidate the protective effect of PT on AFB_(1)-induced liver damage in broilers.Results In vivo experiment showed that the PT reduced AFB_(1) content and AFB_(1)-exo-8,9-epoxide DNA(AFBODNA)concentration in serum and liver(P<0.05),improved the histomorphology of liver and hepatic mitochondria,and activated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)-related antioxidant and detoxification pathway by upregulating the activities of antioxidant enzymes(catalase[CAT],glutathione S-transferase[GST])and total antioxidant capacity(T-AOC)level(P<0.05),and inhibited the mRNA expression of CYP1A1(cytochrome P450 family 1 subfamily A member 1)and phase Ⅱ detoxification enzyme related genes(GPX1,GSTT1,and NQO1)of broilers exposed to AFB_(1)(P<0.05).Meanwhile,PT upregulated the Nrf1 pathway-related mitochondrial biosynthetic genes(Nrf1,mitochondrial transcription factor A[TFAM],mitofusin 1[MFN1])in broilers fed AFB_(1) contaminated diet(P<0.05).In vitro verification study suggested that the use of Nrf2/Nrf1 inhibitors suppressed the ameliorative role of PT on AFB_(1)-induced liver injury of broilers,which was manifested in the mRNA expression of Nrf2,NQO1,GSTT3,Nrf1,TFAM,and other genes decreasing(P<0.05),and down-regulation of the protein expression of Nrf2,total and nucleus p-Nrf2,and total and nucleus p-Nrf1(P<0.05).Conclusion The PT ameliorates oxidative stress and hepatotoxicity by activating the Nrf2-mediated phase Ⅱ detoxification enzymes pathway and maintains mitochondrial homeostasis by activating the Nrf1 signaling pathway in broilers exposed to AFB_(1).展开更多
Aflatoxin B_1(AFB_1)is a common contaminant in cereals of global concern,and long-term low-dose exposure can adversely affect human health.Here,we showed that populations with dietary patterns characterized by high-fa...Aflatoxin B_1(AFB_1)is a common contaminant in cereals of global concern,and long-term low-dose exposure can adversely affect human health.Here,we showed that populations with dietary patterns characterized by high-fat diet(HFD)might have an increased risk of exposure to high levels of AFB_1.Our data indicated that chronic exposure of AFB_1 induced“gut-liver axis”injury in mice under HFD and normal diet(ND)patterns.AFB_1 further aggravated hepatic and intestinal injury,and intestinal microbiota disruption in HFD mice.Bifidobacterium breve BAA-2849 intervention analysis showed that liver injury and lipid disorders caused by AFB_1 exposure were alleviated by regulating the proportions of different gut microbes.We demonstrated through a mice model that the populations with a dietary pattern of HFD might be more susceptible to AFB_1 exposure and adverse effects on the gut-liver axis,and the toxicity of AFB_1 exposure can be alleviated by regulating the gut microbiota.展开更多
Given severe health-hazardous effects of aflatoxin B1(AFB1) widely occurring in cereal grains and animal feeds,it is highly urgent to develop analytical methods for its rapid screening.In this work,we proposed a simpl...Given severe health-hazardous effects of aflatoxin B1(AFB1) widely occurring in cereal grains and animal feeds,it is highly urgent to develop analytical methods for its rapid screening.In this work,we proposed a simple and high-throughput method for the determination of AFB1 in millet and buckwheat samples using high performance thin layer chromatography(HPTLC) linked to fluorescence densitometry.The first step was to optimize the solid-liquid extraction for the crude clean-up of the samples.The QuEChERS(Quick,Easy,Cheap,Effective,Robust and Safe) extraction strategy was used and different solvent systems for their extraction efficiency of AFB1 from the samples were evaluated.Then,trichloromethane:ethyl acetate(7:3,V/V) was used as the mobile phase to realize the separation of the targeted compound from background noises on silica gel plates.Quantification was readily performed with densitometry in fluorescence mode.In order to fix the optimal excitation wavelength,spectra scanning ranging 250-400 nm was carried out,revealing that 364 nm light gave the highest signal.With the optimized optical system,high sensitivity to AFB1 was achieved,with a limit of detection(LOD) at 3 μg/kg.Apart from that,good linearity(0.999) was obtained within the range of 1-80 ng/band of AFB 1.To assess the analysis accuracy,2 levels of AFB 1(50 and100 μg/kg) were spiked into real grain samples.The obtained results showed that the recovery rates were within the range of 81.6%-114.0%.The proof-of-concept results of this work evidenced that HPTLC is a promising analytical tool for the screening of mycotoxin in difficult samples.展开更多
Aflatoxin B1(AFB1)is a carcinogenic toxin naturally produced in most food crops that severely threaten human health,and effective methods are urgent to improve the detection accuracy.Herein an indirect competitive imm...Aflatoxin B1(AFB1)is a carcinogenic toxin naturally produced in most food crops that severely threaten human health,and effective methods are urgent to improve the detection accuracy.Herein an indirect competitive immunosorbent approach was elaborately developed based on high-affinity immunoglobulin G(IgG)coupled CuO-anchored Fe_(3)O_(4)nanozymes for precise and ultrasensitive detection of AFB_(1)in food crops including peanut,corn and wheat.The high-affinity nanozymes were fabricated by the assembly of inner core Fe_(3)O_(4)nanoparticles and mesoporous silica capping layer,Cu O further situated within large aperture of the coating layer via in-situ growth,and then conjugated with ligand rabbit anti-mouse Ig G,which can specifically bind with AFB_(1).The results showed the hybrid high-affinity nanozymes displayed enhanced peroxidasemimic activities and catalytic performances,achieving a linear range of 0.06-61.93(lg(ng/mL))and a detection limit of 0.0037 ng/mL,30 times better than that of the conventional enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.The constructed nanozymes were successfully applied to the detection of AFB_(1)in food products with an average spiked recovery of 96.53%and relative standard deviations less than 2.8%.Therefore,the accurate hybrid nanozymes may serve for AFB_(1)detection in various foods in future.展开更多
BACKGROUND The dysregulation of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-3(TIMP3)was positively correlated with the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).However,it is not clear whether TIMP3 expression is associa...BACKGROUND The dysregulation of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-3(TIMP3)was positively correlated with the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).However,it is not clear whether TIMP3 expression is associated with the clinico-pathological features and prognosis of aflatoxin B1(AFB1)-related HCC(AHCC).A retrospective study,including 182 patients with AHCC,was conducted to explore the link between TIMP3 expression in cancerous tissues and the clinico-pathological characteristics and prognosis of AHCC.TIMP3 expression was detected by immunohistochemistry and its effects on the clinicopathological features and prognosis of AHCC were evaluated by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox regression survival analysis.Odds ratio,hazard ratio(HR),median overall survival time(MST),median tumor recurrence-free survival time(MRT),and corresponding 95%confidential interval(CI)was calculated to RESULTS Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that compared with high TIMP3 expression,low TIMP3 expression in tumor tissues significantly decreased the MST(36.00 mo vs 18.00 mo)and MRT(32.00 mo vs 16 mo)of patients with AHCC.Multivariate Cox regression survival analysis further proved that decreased expression of TIMP3 increased the risk of death(HR=2.85,95%CI:2.04-4.00)and tumor recurrence(HR=2.26,95%CI:1.57-3.26).Furthermore,decreased expression of TIMP3 protein in tissues with AHCC was significantly correlated with tumor clinicopatho-logical features,such as tumor size,tumor grade and stage,tumor microvessel density,and tumor blood invasion.Additionally,TIMP3 protein expression was also negatively associated with amount of AFB1-DNA adducts in tumor tissues.CONCLUSION These findings indicate that the dysregulation of TIMP3 expression is related to AHCC biological behaviors and affects tumor outcome,suggesting that TIMP3 may act as a prognostic biomarker for AHCC.展开更多
Terahertz metamaterial biosensors have attracted significant attention in the biological field due to their advantages of label-free,real-time and in situ detection.In this paper,a highly sensitive metamaterial sensor...Terahertz metamaterial biosensors have attracted significant attention in the biological field due to their advantages of label-free,real-time and in situ detection.In this paper,a highly sensitive metamaterial sensor with semi-ring mirror symmetry based on toroidal dipole resonance is designed for a new metamaterial biosensor.It is shown that a refractive index sensitivity of 337.5 GHz per refractive index unit can be achieved under an analyte of saturated thickness near a 1.33 THz transmission dip.For biosensor samples where aflatoxin B1 is dropped on the metamaterial surface in our experiment,dip amplitudes of transmission varying from 0.1904 to 0.203 and 0.2093 are observed as aflatoxin B1 concentrations are altered from 0 to 0.001μg·ml-1 and to 0.01μg·ml-1,respectively.Furthermore,when aflatoxin B1 concentrations are 0.1μg·ml-1,1μg·ml-1,10μg·ml-1 and 100μg·ml-1,dip amplitudes of 0.2179,0.226,0.2384 and 0.2527 and dip redshifts of 10.1 GHz,20.1 GHz,27.7 GHz and 37.6 GHz are respectively observed.These results illustrate high-sensitivity,label-free detection of aflatoxin B1,enriching the applications of sensors in the terahertz domain.展开更多
Aflatoxins(AFTs)represent one of the most notorious classes of deadly mycotoxins produced by certain fungi that are found on agricultural crops.Aflatoxins are highly toxic to mammals and are known to cause a series of...Aflatoxins(AFTs)represent one of the most notorious classes of deadly mycotoxins produced by certain fungi that are found on agricultural crops.Aflatoxins are highly toxic to mammals and are known to cause a series of detrimental effects,including neuro-,hepato-,nephron-,and immuno-toxicity.In this original review we summarize the mechanisms of aflatoxin-induced neurotoxicity and the clinical potential of novel neuroprotective agents.Aflatoxin B1(AFB1)is the most toxic congener among the 21 identified AFTs.Recent studies have shown that food borne exposure to AFB1 and/or its metabolites often leads to fatal neurotoxicity in animals and humans.Animal studies indicated that AFB1 exposure could induce abnormal behavioral changes,including anxiety,lethargy disorders,depression-like behavior,cognitive,learning and memory defects,and decreased feeding behavior.Mechanistically,AFB1 exposure has been associated with lipid peroxidation,ablation of non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidant defense systems and decreased neurotransmitter levels.AFB1 exposure has also been shown to induce DNA damage,apoptosis,pyroptosis,and mitochondrial dysfunction in the brain tissue.Several signaling pathways,including gasdermin D,toll like receptor 2(TLR2),TLR4,Akt,NF-κB,ERK/MAPK,protein kinase C(PKC),and mitochondrial apoptotic pathways have been shown to participate in AFB1-induced neuronal or astrocyte cell death.Targeting these pathways by small molecules(e.g.,quercetin,curcumin,and gallic acid,and dimethyl fumarate),Chinese herbal extracts(e.g.,Artichoke leaf extract,Chelidonium majus ethanolic extract,pumpkin extract,and Crocus sativus L.tea),and probiotic supplements could effectively improve AFB1-induced neurobehavioral abnormalities and neurotoxicity.To date,the precise molecular mechanisms of AFB1-induced neurotoxicity and potential neuroprotective agents remain unclear.In the present review,the clinical manifestations,molecular mechanisms,and potential neuroprotective agents of AFB1-induced neurotoxicity are summarized in the broadest overview.It is most hopeful that this broad reaching review provides valuable insights and stimulates broader discussion to develop the effective neuroprotective agents against aflatoxins.展开更多
Aflatoxin B_(1)(AFB_(1))is a naturally-occurring mycotoxin and recognized as the most toxic foodborne toxin,particularly causing damages to kidney.Glomerular podocytes are terminally differentiated epithelial cells.AF...Aflatoxin B_(1)(AFB_(1))is a naturally-occurring mycotoxin and recognized as the most toxic foodborne toxin,particularly causing damages to kidney.Glomerular podocytes are terminally differentiated epithelial cells.AFB_(1)induces podocyte inflammation,proteinuria and renal dysfunction.Studying the mechanism of AFB_(1)-induced podocyte inflammation and murine kidney dysfunction,we detected that AFB_(1)increased ubiquitindependent degradation of the transcription factor RelA through enhanced interaction of RelA with E3 ubiquitin ligase tripartite motif containing 7(TRIM7)in mouse podocyte clone-5(MPC-5)and mouse glomeruli.Reduction of RelA resulted in decreasing microRNA-9(miR-9)and activating the chemokine receptor 4(CXCR4),thioredoxin interacting protein(TXNIP),and NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing 3(NLRP3)signaling axis(CXCR4/TXNIP/NLRP3 pathway),leading to podocyte inflammation.We also determined that downregulation of miR-9 led to CXCR4 expression and the downstream TXNIP/NLRP3 pathway activation.Overexpression of miR-9 or deletion of CXCR4 suppressed AFB_(1)-induced CXCR4/TXNIP/NLRP3 pathway,resulting in alleviating podocyte inflammation and kidney dysfunction.Our findings indicated that ubiquitin-dependent proteolysis of RelA,downregulation of miR-9,and activation of CXCR4/TXNIP/NLRP3 pathway played an essential role in AFB_(1)-induced glomerular podocyte inflammation.Our study revealed a novel mechanism,via RelA,for the control of AFB_(1)’s nephrotoxicity,leading to an effective protection of food safety and public health.展开更多
Unani medicine is an oldest system of traditional medicine,where drugs of animal,mineral and herbal origin are used for centuries to cure diseases.Unani remedies are now available not only in drug stores,but also in f...Unani medicine is an oldest system of traditional medicine,where drugs of animal,mineral and herbal origin are used for centuries to cure diseases.Unani remedies are now available not only in drug stores,but also in food stores and super markets.Therefore the efficacy and safety of these drugs is very crucial.One of the most serious risks associated with these remedies is,consumer assumes that they are natural,so they are safe.But biological contamination(bacterial,fungal and insect)of herbal medicines is a serious concern.The Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus are the fungal species that occur naturally,release aflatoxins and is a threat to the natural drugs.The World Health Organization has recommended determination of aflatoxins in natural drugs(Unani)as one of the parameter of their safety studies as Aflatoxin contamination is concerned significantly with health and economic loss affecting humans,animals,and agriculture.Aflatoxin B1 is categorized as a group 1 carcinogen by The International Agency for Research on Cancer that causes a variety of health issues.Thus keeping in mind the deleterious health effects of aflatoxins,here,in this review we have made an attempt to summarize the aflatoxins with respect to their origin,occurrence,structure and properties to generate the awareness among the people dealing mainly with Unani herbal drugs.Besides these their toxicity and effects on health have also been discussed.The analytical methods for their determination and some measures to prevent their contamination are also suggested to improve the efficacy and safety of Unani herbal drugs.展开更多
The structure, electrostatic properties, and Raman spectra of aflatoxin B1 （AFB1） and AFB1-Ag complex are studied by density functional theory with B3LYP/6- 311G（d,p）/Lan12dz basis set. The results show that the s...The structure, electrostatic properties, and Raman spectra of aflatoxin B1 （AFB1） and AFB1-Ag complex are studied by density functional theory with B3LYP/6- 311G（d,p）/Lan12dz basis set. The results show that the surface-enhanced Raman scattering （SERS） and pre-resonance Raman spectra of AFB1-Ag complex strongly depend on the adsorption site and the excitation wavelength found to enhance 102-103 order compared to of the incident light. The SERS factors are normal Raman spectrum of AFB1 molecule due to the larger static polarizabilities of the AFB1-Ag complex, which directly results in the stronger chemical enhancement in SERS spectra. The pre-resonance Raman spectra of AFB1-Ag complex are explored at 266, 482, 785, and 1064 nm incident light wavelength, in which the enhancement factors are about 10^2-10^4, mainly caused by the charge-transfer excitation resonance. The vibrational modes are analyzed to explain the relationship between the vibrational direction and the enhanced Raman intensities.展开更多
An Aspergillus section/Zam isolate （ NAFFHB396） was isolated from a peanut kernel. It was identified as Aspergillus flavus based on morphology and molecular characteristics. It produced yellow to green - ...An Aspergillus section/Zam isolate （ NAFFHB396） was isolated from a peanut kernel. It was identified as Aspergillus flavus based on morphology and molecular characteristics. It produced yellow to green - colored conidia on CYA medium and colonies with bright orange in color on AFPA medium. NAFFHB396 was grouped with A. flavus NRRL21882 and NRRL3357 by phylogenetic analysis of partial calmodulin sequence data. It was found that 12 genes were absent in aflatoxin gene cluster in NAFF- HB396. HPLC result further showed that it was an atoxigenic isolate. Co - inoculation of NAFFHB396 with a high aflatoxin producer AF2202 at the ratio of 1：1 both on CYA medium and peanut kernel resul-ted in reduction of aflatoxin production by 88.7% and 99. 8% respectively. These results suggested that the atoxigenic NAFFHB396 obtained in this study had a great potential to be a biocontrol agent to reduce aflatoxin contamination of peanut in China.展开更多
Busia and Kisii Central districts are areas in western Kenya that have repeatedly reported high levels of stunting growth in children and an increase in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC);an aspect often positively associ...Busia and Kisii Central districts are areas in western Kenya that have repeatedly reported high levels of stunting growth in children and an increase in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC);an aspect often positively associated with chronic exposure to aflatoxins especially through consumption of foods such as peanuts. The objectives of the study were to determine the incidence, types and levels of aflatoxin in different varieties of peanuts produced in Busia and Kisii Central districts. One hundred and two (102) peanuts samples were collected from farmers’ in each district. Aflatoxin types and levels of aflatoxins were analyzed using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) technique. All the peanuts samples from Kisii Central and 97.06% samples from Busia were contaminated with aflatoxins. However, aflatoxin was not detected in 2.94% of samples from Busia district. The levels of total aflatoxin ranges were 0.1 to 268 μg/kg and 1.63 to 591.1 μg/kg in peanuts from Busia and Kisii Central respectively. Majority of peanuts samples had levels within Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) and European Union (EU) regulatory limits for total aflatoxins. Improved variety (Valencia red) had significantly lower aflatoxin contamination compared to local varieties (Uganda local red, Homabay local and Local red). Aflatoxins B1, B2, G1 and G2 were found in peanuts;B1 was the most predominant in both districts (t = 12.4, df = 3, P = 0.034). The levels of aflatoxins especially in peanuts from Kisii Central district were high (591.1 μg/kg) where 44.6% of samples analyzed were unfit for even animal feed (USFDA regulatory limit). An assessment on the levels of aflatoxins should be done by the relevant stakeholders in other key foods in the areas for example maize. The most lethal aflatoxin type B1 was found to be the most predominant peanuts from both districts of study. This calls for frequent aflatoxin screening of peanuts from the districts particularly aflatoxin type B.展开更多
Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths worldwide,primarily affecting populations in the developing countries.Aflatoxin,a food contaminant produced by the fungi Aspergillus flavus a...Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths worldwide,primarily affecting populations in the developing countries.Aflatoxin,a food contaminant produced by the fungi Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus,is a known human carcinogen that has been shown to be a causative agent in the pathogenesis of HCC.Aflatoxin can affect a wide range of food commodities including corns,oilseeds,spices,and tree nuts as well as milk,meat,and dried fruit.Many factors affect the growth of Aspergillus fungi and the level of aflatoxin contamination in food.Drought stress is one of the factors that increase susceptibility of plants to Aspergillus and thus aflatoxin contamination.A recent drought is thought to be responsible for finding of trace amounts of aflatoxin in some of the corn harvested in the United States.Although it's too soon to know whether aflatoxin will be a significant problem,since United States is the world's largest corn producer and exporter,this has raised alarm bells.Strict regulations and testing of finished foods and feeds in the United States should prevent a major health scare,and prevent human exposure to deleterious levels of aflatoxin.Unfortunately,such regulations and testing are not in place in many countries.The purpose of this editorial is to summarize the current knowledge on association of aflatoxin and HCC,encourage future research and draw attention to this global public health issue.展开更多
Objective:To determine lactic acid bacteria's capability to enhance the process of binding and isolating aflatoxin B1 and to utilize such lactic acid bacteria as a food supplement or probiotic products for prevent...Objective:To determine lactic acid bacteria's capability to enhance the process of binding and isolating aflatoxin B1 and to utilize such lactic acid bacteria as a food supplement or probiotic products for preventing absorption of aflatoxin Bl in human and animal bodies.Methods:In the present research,the bacteria were isolated from five different sources.For surveying the capability of the bacteria in isolating aflatoxin Bl,ELISA method was implemented,and for identifying the resultant strains through 16S rRNA sequencing method,universal primers were applied.Results:Among the strains which were isolated,two strains of Lactobacillus pentosus and Lactobacillus beveris exhibited the capability of absorbing and isolating aflatoxin Bl by respectively absorbing and discharging 17.4%and 34.7%of the aforementioned toxin existing in the experiment solution.Conclusions:Strains of Lactobacillus pentosus and Lactobacillus beveris were isolated from human feces and local milk samples,respectively.And both strains has the ability to isolate or bind with aflatoxin Bl.展开更多
Aflatoxin B1(AFB1)is a highly toxic mycotoxin,and rapid and sensitive detection of AFB1 is in demand for food safety and environmental analysis.Here we described a simple aptamer molecular beacon assay for rapid detec...Aflatoxin B1(AFB1)is a highly toxic mycotoxin,and rapid and sensitive detection of AFB1 is in demand for food safety and environmental analysis.Here we described a simple aptamer molecular beacon assay for rapid detection of aflatoxin B1(AFB1)by using an aptamer with a fluorescein(FAM)label at the 50 end and a fluorescence quencher(black hole quencher 1,BHQ1)at the 30 end.In the presence of AFB1,the aptamer probe bound with AFB1 and induced a hairpin structure,drawing FAM and BHQ1 into close proximity and leading to fluorescence quenching.This assay allowed for a detection limit of 3.9 nmol/L and a dynamic range from 3.9 nmol/L to 4 mmol/L.Specificity test showed other mycotoxins including ochratoxin A,ochratoxin B,fumonisin B1,fumonisin B2,and zearalenone had negligible influence on detection of AFB1.AFB1 spiked in diluted liquor wine,methanol,or corn flour samples was successfully detected by using this aptamer probe,and the assay showed potential for real sample analysis.展开更多
基金supported by Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University Researchers Supporting Project Number(PNURSP2025R317),Princess Nourah bintAbdulrahman University,Riyadh,Saudi Arabia.
文摘Aspergillus species produce aflatoxins and raise concerns about food safety in departmental stores and manufacturing mills.To address the risks posed by aflatoxins,and to advise the public on the highest quality rice that serves as a nutritious food source,an inquiry following the guidelines outlined in both local and international standards of food safety for the presence of aflatoxins is an essential requirement.Therefore,16 white rice samples were selected randomly from low/high socio-economic departmental stores from 16 different localities.Grind powdered rice filtrate was extracted using chloroform.The filtrate applied on TLC plates and the amount of aflatoxin and moisture contents were determined.In the non-infected rice,moisture content was low(9.08%)whereas high[13.65%>12%(standard>value)]in infected ones.Four out of 8 samples of low-quality rice were contaminated with AFB_(1) and AFB_(2)(ranging from 22.2 to 29.3μg/kg).All the samples except one(22.3μg/kg)from high-quality rice were certified fit despite the contamination with AFB_(1).Furthermore,phylogenetic analysis showed Aspergillus flavus from unfit low(Long grain brown and Brown basmati)and high-quality(Basmati-198)rice whereas A.parasiticus from unfit low-quality Medium-grain brown rice.The presented research proves that the detection of fungi and aflatoxins in rice grains poses a huge risk to the health of consumers.Therefore,it is necessary to check the rice grains before distribution.
基金supported by the Chinese Natural Science Foundation projects(32272915 and 32472949)National Key Research and Development Programs of China(2023YFD1301003)+1 种基金the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(2662023DKPY002)Hebei Panshuo Biotechnolog Co.,Ltd.
文摘Background This study was carried out to investigate the individual and combined contamination of aflatoxin B_(1)(AFB_(1)),deoxynivalenol(DON),and zearalenone(ZEN)in feeds in China between 2021 and 2024.A total of 23,003 feed samples,including 17,489 feedstuff samples and 5,514 complete feed samples,were collected from different provinces of China for mycotoxin analysis.Results The analyzed mycotoxins displayed considerably high contamination in the feed samples,with the individual contamination of AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN were 20.0%–100%,33.3%–100%,and 85.0%–100%,respectively.The average concentrations of AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN were 1.2–728.7μg/kg,106–8,634.8μg/kg,and 18.1–3,341.6μg/kg,respectively.Notably,the rates over China’s safety standards for AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN in raw ingredients were 9.7%,2.7%,and 15.7%,respectively.Meanwhile,3.5%,1.1%,and 8.7%of analyzed complete feeds exceeded China’s safety standards for AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN,respectively.Moreover,the co-contamination rates of AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN in more than 70%of raw ingredients and 87.5%of complete feed products were 60.0%–100%and 61.5%–100%,respectively.Conclusion This study reveals that the feeds in China have commonly been contaminated with AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN alone and their combination during the past four years.These findings highlight the significance of monitoring mycotoxin contaminant levels in domestic animal feed and the importance of carrying out feed administration and remediation strategies for mycotoxin control.
基金supported by grant from the Science and Technology Program of Zhejiang Province 2022C04034(to Jinzhi Zhang,Junli Zhu and Haifeng Wang)the Key Research and Development Program of China 2022YFD1300602(to Haifeng Wang)。
文摘Background Aflatoxins have been reported as a significant pollutant in feed,capable of causing harm to the liver,gastrointestinal tract and kidneys of piglets.However,research on the interactions among aflatoxin B1(AFB1),bile acid(BA)metabolism and gut microbiota is limited.Methods In this study,piglets were treated with AFB1 and antibiotics(ABX)to evaluate the interaction between AFB1 and gut microbiota.Subsequently,the roles of the farnesoid X receptor(FXR)and sterol 12α-hydroxylase(CYP8B1)in AFB1 absorption were studied by using FXR agonists obeticholic acid(OCA)and Cyp8b1-knockout(KO)mice,respectively.Result AFB1 inhibited bile salt hydrolase(BSH)activity in ileal microbiota,downregulated ileal FXR expression,and upregulated CYP8B1 expression in liver,increasing the proportion of 12α-OH BAs and potentially enhancing AFB1 absorption.ABX treatment reduced AFB1 absorption and liver damage,and unexpectedly increased BSH activity,counteracting the AFB1-induced downregulation of FXR and upregulation of CYP8B1.OCA reactivated ileal FXR,reduced AFB1 absorption,and alleviated liver damage.Furthermore,Cyp8b1-KO mice showed increased resistance to AFB1-induced liver damage by lowering AFB1 absorption.Conclusions These results underscore the significance of gut microbiota and BAs in AFB1 absorption,suggesting new strategies to mitigate health risks from AFB1 in piglets.
基金supported by the Chinese Natural Science Foundation Projects 32072775,32272915 and 32472949the National Key Research and Development Programs of China(2023YFD1301003 and 2023YFD1301005)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(2662023DKPY002)。
文摘Background AFB_(1)-8,9-exo-epoxide(AFBO)is the highly toxic product of Aflatoxin B_(1)(AFB_(1)).Glutathione S-transferases(GSTs)play pivotal roles in detoxifying AFB_(1) by catalyzing the conjugation of AFBO with glutathione(GSH).Although there are over 20 GST isozymes that have been identified in chicken,GST isozymes involved in the detoxification process of AFB_(1) have not been identified yet.The objective of this study was to determine which GST isozymes played key role in detoxification of AFB_(1).Results A total of 17 pcDNA3.1(+)-GST isozyme plasmids were constructed and the GST isozyme genes were overexpressed by 80–2,500,000 folds in the chicken Leghorn male hepatoma(LMH)cells.Compared to the AFB_(1) treatment,overexpression of GSTA2X,GSTA3,GSTT1L,GSTZ1-1,and GSTZ1-2 increased the cell viability by 6.5%–17.0%in LMH cells.Moreover,overexpression of five GST isozymes reduced the release of lactate dehydrogenase and reactive oxygen species by 8.8%–64.4%,and 57.2%–77.6%,respectively,as well as enhanced the production AFBO-GSH by 15.8%–19.6%,thus mitigating DNA damage induced by AFB_(1).After comprehensive evaluation of various indicators,GSTA2X displayed the best detoxification effects against AFB_(1).GSTA2X was expressed in Pichia pastoris X-33 and its enzymatic properties for catalyzing the conjugation of AFBO with GSH showed that the optimum temperature and pH were 20–25℃ and 7.6–8.6 as well as the enzymatic kinetic parameter V_(max) was 0.23 nmol/min/mg and the Michaelis constant was 86.05μmol/L with the AFB_(1) as substrate.Conclusions In conclusion,GSTA2X,GSTA3,GSTT1L,GSTZ1-1,and GSTZ1-2 played key roles in AFB_(1) detoxification,which will provide new remediation strategies to prevent aflatoxicosis in chickens.
基金financially supported by China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(No.2022T150708)National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2023YFF1104600)National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.32072305,32102089)。
文摘Aflatoxins B1(AFB1)contamination in agro-food holds great threaten to human and animal health.Conventional test strips for rapid AFB1 visualized monitoring remains challenged by improvement of sensitivity and matrix interference resistance.In this case,we developed a portable electrochemiluminescence(ECL)imaging test strip with dual-signal outputs for AFB1 quantification in corn samples.RuPEI@SiO_(2)@Au nanospheres were synthesized for bonding with anti-AFB1 antibody and then colorimetrical signal-reported on test line through the capillary flow at strips.Meanwhile,ECL imaging signal of the constructed carbon-ink-based working electrode on polyvinyl chloride substrate of strips was exported under an applied potential of 1.25 V.The whole ECL test strips not only endowed convenient colorimetric responses but guaranteed quick-witted ECL image distinguishment even at extremely low AFB1 content.The detection limit of this ECL imaging-integrated mode was 10-fold lower than that of only colorimetric mode.Furthermore,satisfactory selectivity,reliability and practicability of the as-proposed ECL test strips were demonstrated.This work offered a promising platform for on-site,accurate and sensitive detection of pollutants in foods.
基金funded by the Characteristic Innovation Project of the Guangdong Provincial Department of Education(2024 KTSCX198)Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation(2024 A1515012201)Guangdong Feed Industry Technology System(2024 CXTD14).
文摘Background Aflatoxin B_(1)(AFB_(1))risks animal and human health,and the liver is considered the most crucial detoxification organ.Phlorotannin(PT)is a polyhydroxy phenol that has a wide range of biological activities,including antioxidation and hepatoprotection,which can promote the ability of liver detoxification.This study aimed to elucidate the protective effect of PT on AFB_(1)-induced liver damage in broilers.Results In vivo experiment showed that the PT reduced AFB_(1) content and AFB_(1)-exo-8,9-epoxide DNA(AFBODNA)concentration in serum and liver(P<0.05),improved the histomorphology of liver and hepatic mitochondria,and activated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)-related antioxidant and detoxification pathway by upregulating the activities of antioxidant enzymes(catalase[CAT],glutathione S-transferase[GST])and total antioxidant capacity(T-AOC)level(P<0.05),and inhibited the mRNA expression of CYP1A1(cytochrome P450 family 1 subfamily A member 1)and phase Ⅱ detoxification enzyme related genes(GPX1,GSTT1,and NQO1)of broilers exposed to AFB_(1)(P<0.05).Meanwhile,PT upregulated the Nrf1 pathway-related mitochondrial biosynthetic genes(Nrf1,mitochondrial transcription factor A[TFAM],mitofusin 1[MFN1])in broilers fed AFB_(1) contaminated diet(P<0.05).In vitro verification study suggested that the use of Nrf2/Nrf1 inhibitors suppressed the ameliorative role of PT on AFB_(1)-induced liver injury of broilers,which was manifested in the mRNA expression of Nrf2,NQO1,GSTT3,Nrf1,TFAM,and other genes decreasing(P<0.05),and down-regulation of the protein expression of Nrf2,total and nucleus p-Nrf2,and total and nucleus p-Nrf1(P<0.05).Conclusion The PT ameliorates oxidative stress and hepatotoxicity by activating the Nrf2-mediated phase Ⅱ detoxification enzymes pathway and maintains mitochondrial homeostasis by activating the Nrf1 signaling pathway in broilers exposed to AFB_(1).
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32125031)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(JUSRP222001)Collaborative Innovation Center for Food Safety and Quality Control,China。
文摘Aflatoxin B_1(AFB_1)is a common contaminant in cereals of global concern,and long-term low-dose exposure can adversely affect human health.Here,we showed that populations with dietary patterns characterized by high-fat diet(HFD)might have an increased risk of exposure to high levels of AFB_1.Our data indicated that chronic exposure of AFB_1 induced“gut-liver axis”injury in mice under HFD and normal diet(ND)patterns.AFB_1 further aggravated hepatic and intestinal injury,and intestinal microbiota disruption in HFD mice.Bifidobacterium breve BAA-2849 intervention analysis showed that liver injury and lipid disorders caused by AFB_1 exposure were alleviated by regulating the proportions of different gut microbes.We demonstrated through a mice model that the populations with a dietary pattern of HFD might be more susceptible to AFB_1 exposure and adverse effects on the gut-liver axis,and the toxicity of AFB_1 exposure can be alleviated by regulating the gut microbiota.
基金supported by National Key Research and Development Program of China (2021YFF0601902)Shanxi Scholarship Council of China (2021-068)+1 种基金Opening Project of Key Laboratory of Detection for Mycotoxins, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs China (SWDSJC2021001)Shanxi Agricultural University High-Level Talent Project (2021XG013)。
文摘Given severe health-hazardous effects of aflatoxin B1(AFB1) widely occurring in cereal grains and animal feeds,it is highly urgent to develop analytical methods for its rapid screening.In this work,we proposed a simple and high-throughput method for the determination of AFB1 in millet and buckwheat samples using high performance thin layer chromatography(HPTLC) linked to fluorescence densitometry.The first step was to optimize the solid-liquid extraction for the crude clean-up of the samples.The QuEChERS(Quick,Easy,Cheap,Effective,Robust and Safe) extraction strategy was used and different solvent systems for their extraction efficiency of AFB1 from the samples were evaluated.Then,trichloromethane:ethyl acetate(7:3,V/V) was used as the mobile phase to realize the separation of the targeted compound from background noises on silica gel plates.Quantification was readily performed with densitometry in fluorescence mode.In order to fix the optimal excitation wavelength,spectra scanning ranging 250-400 nm was carried out,revealing that 364 nm light gave the highest signal.With the optimized optical system,high sensitivity to AFB1 was achieved,with a limit of detection(LOD) at 3 μg/kg.Apart from that,good linearity(0.999) was obtained within the range of 1-80 ng/band of AFB 1.To assess the analysis accuracy,2 levels of AFB 1(50 and100 μg/kg) were spiked into real grain samples.The obtained results showed that the recovery rates were within the range of 81.6%-114.0%.The proof-of-concept results of this work evidenced that HPTLC is a promising analytical tool for the screening of mycotoxin in difficult samples.
基金supported by the Scientific and Technological Project of Henan Province(232102321117)National Natural Science Foundation of China(82202198)+2 种基金the National Engineering Research Center of Wheat and Corn Further Processing of Henan University of Technology(NL2022010)Project of Basic Research Fund of Henan Provincial Institute of Medical and Pharmacological Sciences(2023BP0106)the Innovative Funds Plan of Henan University of Technology(2020ZKCJ23)。
文摘Aflatoxin B1(AFB1)is a carcinogenic toxin naturally produced in most food crops that severely threaten human health,and effective methods are urgent to improve the detection accuracy.Herein an indirect competitive immunosorbent approach was elaborately developed based on high-affinity immunoglobulin G(IgG)coupled CuO-anchored Fe_(3)O_(4)nanozymes for precise and ultrasensitive detection of AFB_(1)in food crops including peanut,corn and wheat.The high-affinity nanozymes were fabricated by the assembly of inner core Fe_(3)O_(4)nanoparticles and mesoporous silica capping layer,Cu O further situated within large aperture of the coating layer via in-situ growth,and then conjugated with ligand rabbit anti-mouse Ig G,which can specifically bind with AFB_(1).The results showed the hybrid high-affinity nanozymes displayed enhanced peroxidasemimic activities and catalytic performances,achieving a linear range of 0.06-61.93(lg(ng/mL))and a detection limit of 0.0037 ng/mL,30 times better than that of the conventional enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.The constructed nanozymes were successfully applied to the detection of AFB_(1)in food products with an average spiked recovery of 96.53%and relative standard deviations less than 2.8%.Therefore,the accurate hybrid nanozymes may serve for AFB_(1)detection in various foods in future.
基金the Science-Technology Planning Project of Guangxi,No.Guike-AD19245174Guangxi Training Program for Medical High-level Academic Leaders,No.6 of Guiweikejiaofa[2020]-15+3 种基金Bose Talent Highland,No.2020-3-2Building Projects from the Key Laboratory of Molecular Pathology(Hepatobiliary Diseases)of Guangxi,No.Guiweikejiaofa[2020]-17the Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Pathology of Guangxi Colleges and Universities,No.Guijiaokeyan[2022]-10Clinical Key Specialty Building Project(For Pathology)of Guangxi,No.Guiweiyifa[2022]-21.
文摘BACKGROUND The dysregulation of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-3(TIMP3)was positively correlated with the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).However,it is not clear whether TIMP3 expression is associated with the clinico-pathological features and prognosis of aflatoxin B1(AFB1)-related HCC(AHCC).A retrospective study,including 182 patients with AHCC,was conducted to explore the link between TIMP3 expression in cancerous tissues and the clinico-pathological characteristics and prognosis of AHCC.TIMP3 expression was detected by immunohistochemistry and its effects on the clinicopathological features and prognosis of AHCC were evaluated by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox regression survival analysis.Odds ratio,hazard ratio(HR),median overall survival time(MST),median tumor recurrence-free survival time(MRT),and corresponding 95%confidential interval(CI)was calculated to RESULTS Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that compared with high TIMP3 expression,low TIMP3 expression in tumor tissues significantly decreased the MST(36.00 mo vs 18.00 mo)and MRT(32.00 mo vs 16 mo)of patients with AHCC.Multivariate Cox regression survival analysis further proved that decreased expression of TIMP3 increased the risk of death(HR=2.85,95%CI:2.04-4.00)and tumor recurrence(HR=2.26,95%CI:1.57-3.26).Furthermore,decreased expression of TIMP3 protein in tissues with AHCC was significantly correlated with tumor clinicopatho-logical features,such as tumor size,tumor grade and stage,tumor microvessel density,and tumor blood invasion.Additionally,TIMP3 protein expression was also negatively associated with amount of AFB1-DNA adducts in tumor tissues.CONCLUSION These findings indicate that the dysregulation of TIMP3 expression is related to AHCC biological behaviors and affects tumor outcome,suggesting that TIMP3 may act as a prognostic biomarker for AHCC.
基金Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.61927813,61865009,and 12104203)Jiangxi Provincial Natural Science Foundation(Grant No.20212ACB201007).
文摘Terahertz metamaterial biosensors have attracted significant attention in the biological field due to their advantages of label-free,real-time and in situ detection.In this paper,a highly sensitive metamaterial sensor with semi-ring mirror symmetry based on toroidal dipole resonance is designed for a new metamaterial biosensor.It is shown that a refractive index sensitivity of 337.5 GHz per refractive index unit can be achieved under an analyte of saturated thickness near a 1.33 THz transmission dip.For biosensor samples where aflatoxin B1 is dropped on the metamaterial surface in our experiment,dip amplitudes of transmission varying from 0.1904 to 0.203 and 0.2093 are observed as aflatoxin B1 concentrations are altered from 0 to 0.001μg·ml-1 and to 0.01μg·ml-1,respectively.Furthermore,when aflatoxin B1 concentrations are 0.1μg·ml-1,1μg·ml-1,10μg·ml-1 and 100μg·ml-1,dip amplitudes of 0.2179,0.226,0.2384 and 0.2527 and dip redshifts of 10.1 GHz,20.1 GHz,27.7 GHz and 37.6 GHz are respectively observed.These results illustrate high-sensitivity,label-free detection of aflatoxin B1,enriching the applications of sensors in the terahertz domain.
基金funded by the Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture Project(NT2021006)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32102724)Pinduoduo-China Agricultural University Research Fund(PC2023A01002).
文摘Aflatoxins(AFTs)represent one of the most notorious classes of deadly mycotoxins produced by certain fungi that are found on agricultural crops.Aflatoxins are highly toxic to mammals and are known to cause a series of detrimental effects,including neuro-,hepato-,nephron-,and immuno-toxicity.In this original review we summarize the mechanisms of aflatoxin-induced neurotoxicity and the clinical potential of novel neuroprotective agents.Aflatoxin B1(AFB1)is the most toxic congener among the 21 identified AFTs.Recent studies have shown that food borne exposure to AFB1 and/or its metabolites often leads to fatal neurotoxicity in animals and humans.Animal studies indicated that AFB1 exposure could induce abnormal behavioral changes,including anxiety,lethargy disorders,depression-like behavior,cognitive,learning and memory defects,and decreased feeding behavior.Mechanistically,AFB1 exposure has been associated with lipid peroxidation,ablation of non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidant defense systems and decreased neurotransmitter levels.AFB1 exposure has also been shown to induce DNA damage,apoptosis,pyroptosis,and mitochondrial dysfunction in the brain tissue.Several signaling pathways,including gasdermin D,toll like receptor 2(TLR2),TLR4,Akt,NF-κB,ERK/MAPK,protein kinase C(PKC),and mitochondrial apoptotic pathways have been shown to participate in AFB1-induced neuronal or astrocyte cell death.Targeting these pathways by small molecules(e.g.,quercetin,curcumin,and gallic acid,and dimethyl fumarate),Chinese herbal extracts(e.g.,Artichoke leaf extract,Chelidonium majus ethanolic extract,pumpkin extract,and Crocus sativus L.tea),and probiotic supplements could effectively improve AFB1-induced neurobehavioral abnormalities and neurotoxicity.To date,the precise molecular mechanisms of AFB1-induced neurotoxicity and potential neuroprotective agents remain unclear.In the present review,the clinical manifestations,molecular mechanisms,and potential neuroprotective agents of AFB1-induced neurotoxicity are summarized in the broadest overview.It is most hopeful that this broad reaching review provides valuable insights and stimulates broader discussion to develop the effective neuroprotective agents against aflatoxins.
基金funded by Suzhou Science and Technology Council(SNG201907)Universities Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province(20KJB330002)+6 种基金General Program of China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2022M711369)the Startup Funding of Soochow University,Jiangsu Province-Suzhou Science and Technology Planning Project(SL T201917)National Natural Science Foundation of China(32172922,31972741)Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province of China(BK20211216,BK20221091)the Startup Funding of Hefei University of Technology(1302003712022058)China-CEEC Joint University Education Project(202010)the Excellence Project PrF UHK(2217/2022-2023)。
文摘Aflatoxin B_(1)(AFB_(1))is a naturally-occurring mycotoxin and recognized as the most toxic foodborne toxin,particularly causing damages to kidney.Glomerular podocytes are terminally differentiated epithelial cells.AFB_(1)induces podocyte inflammation,proteinuria and renal dysfunction.Studying the mechanism of AFB_(1)-induced podocyte inflammation and murine kidney dysfunction,we detected that AFB_(1)increased ubiquitindependent degradation of the transcription factor RelA through enhanced interaction of RelA with E3 ubiquitin ligase tripartite motif containing 7(TRIM7)in mouse podocyte clone-5(MPC-5)and mouse glomeruli.Reduction of RelA resulted in decreasing microRNA-9(miR-9)and activating the chemokine receptor 4(CXCR4),thioredoxin interacting protein(TXNIP),and NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing 3(NLRP3)signaling axis(CXCR4/TXNIP/NLRP3 pathway),leading to podocyte inflammation.We also determined that downregulation of miR-9 led to CXCR4 expression and the downstream TXNIP/NLRP3 pathway activation.Overexpression of miR-9 or deletion of CXCR4 suppressed AFB_(1)-induced CXCR4/TXNIP/NLRP3 pathway,resulting in alleviating podocyte inflammation and kidney dysfunction.Our findings indicated that ubiquitin-dependent proteolysis of RelA,downregulation of miR-9,and activation of CXCR4/TXNIP/NLRP3 pathway played an essential role in AFB_(1)-induced glomerular podocyte inflammation.Our study revealed a novel mechanism,via RelA,for the control of AFB_(1)’s nephrotoxicity,leading to an effective protection of food safety and public health.
文摘Unani medicine is an oldest system of traditional medicine,where drugs of animal,mineral and herbal origin are used for centuries to cure diseases.Unani remedies are now available not only in drug stores,but also in food stores and super markets.Therefore the efficacy and safety of these drugs is very crucial.One of the most serious risks associated with these remedies is,consumer assumes that they are natural,so they are safe.But biological contamination(bacterial,fungal and insect)of herbal medicines is a serious concern.The Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus are the fungal species that occur naturally,release aflatoxins and is a threat to the natural drugs.The World Health Organization has recommended determination of aflatoxins in natural drugs(Unani)as one of the parameter of their safety studies as Aflatoxin contamination is concerned significantly with health and economic loss affecting humans,animals,and agriculture.Aflatoxin B1 is categorized as a group 1 carcinogen by The International Agency for Research on Cancer that causes a variety of health issues.Thus keeping in mind the deleterious health effects of aflatoxins,here,in this review we have made an attempt to summarize the aflatoxins with respect to their origin,occurrence,structure and properties to generate the awareness among the people dealing mainly with Unani herbal drugs.Besides these their toxicity and effects on health have also been discussed.The analytical methods for their determination and some measures to prevent their contamination are also suggested to improve the efficacy and safety of Unani herbal drugs.
基金ACKNOWLEDGMENTS This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China （No.11174237）, the National Basic Rcsearch Program of China （No.2013CB328904）, and the Application Basic program of Sichuan Province （No.2013JY0035）.
文摘The structure, electrostatic properties, and Raman spectra of aflatoxin B1 （AFB1） and AFB1-Ag complex are studied by density functional theory with B3LYP/6- 311G（d,p）/Lan12dz basis set. The results show that the surface-enhanced Raman scattering （SERS） and pre-resonance Raman spectra of AFB1-Ag complex strongly depend on the adsorption site and the excitation wavelength found to enhance 102-103 order compared to of the incident light. The SERS factors are normal Raman spectrum of AFB1 molecule due to the larger static polarizabilities of the AFB1-Ag complex, which directly results in the stronger chemical enhancement in SERS spectra. The pre-resonance Raman spectra of AFB1-Ag complex are explored at 266, 482, 785, and 1064 nm incident light wavelength, in which the enhancement factors are about 10^2-10^4, mainly caused by the charge-transfer excitation resonance. The vibrational modes are analyzed to explain the relationship between the vibrational direction and the enhanced Raman intensities.
文摘An Aspergillus section/Zam isolate （ NAFFHB396） was isolated from a peanut kernel. It was identified as Aspergillus flavus based on morphology and molecular characteristics. It produced yellow to green - colored conidia on CYA medium and colonies with bright orange in color on AFPA medium. NAFFHB396 was grouped with A. flavus NRRL21882 and NRRL3357 by phylogenetic analysis of partial calmodulin sequence data. It was found that 12 genes were absent in aflatoxin gene cluster in NAFF- HB396. HPLC result further showed that it was an atoxigenic isolate. Co - inoculation of NAFFHB396 with a high aflatoxin producer AF2202 at the ratio of 1：1 both on CYA medium and peanut kernel resul-ted in reduction of aflatoxin production by 88.7% and 99. 8% respectively. These results suggested that the atoxigenic NAFFHB396 obtained in this study had a great potential to be a biocontrol agent to reduce aflatoxin contamination of peanut in China.
文摘Busia and Kisii Central districts are areas in western Kenya that have repeatedly reported high levels of stunting growth in children and an increase in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC);an aspect often positively associated with chronic exposure to aflatoxins especially through consumption of foods such as peanuts. The objectives of the study were to determine the incidence, types and levels of aflatoxin in different varieties of peanuts produced in Busia and Kisii Central districts. One hundred and two (102) peanuts samples were collected from farmers’ in each district. Aflatoxin types and levels of aflatoxins were analyzed using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) technique. All the peanuts samples from Kisii Central and 97.06% samples from Busia were contaminated with aflatoxins. However, aflatoxin was not detected in 2.94% of samples from Busia district. The levels of total aflatoxin ranges were 0.1 to 268 μg/kg and 1.63 to 591.1 μg/kg in peanuts from Busia and Kisii Central respectively. Majority of peanuts samples had levels within Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) and European Union (EU) regulatory limits for total aflatoxins. Improved variety (Valencia red) had significantly lower aflatoxin contamination compared to local varieties (Uganda local red, Homabay local and Local red). Aflatoxins B1, B2, G1 and G2 were found in peanuts;B1 was the most predominant in both districts (t = 12.4, df = 3, P = 0.034). The levels of aflatoxins especially in peanuts from Kisii Central district were high (591.1 μg/kg) where 44.6% of samples analyzed were unfit for even animal feed (USFDA regulatory limit). An assessment on the levels of aflatoxins should be done by the relevant stakeholders in other key foods in the areas for example maize. The most lethal aflatoxin type B1 was found to be the most predominant peanuts from both districts of study. This calls for frequent aflatoxin screening of peanuts from the districts particularly aflatoxin type B.
文摘Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths worldwide,primarily affecting populations in the developing countries.Aflatoxin,a food contaminant produced by the fungi Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus,is a known human carcinogen that has been shown to be a causative agent in the pathogenesis of HCC.Aflatoxin can affect a wide range of food commodities including corns,oilseeds,spices,and tree nuts as well as milk,meat,and dried fruit.Many factors affect the growth of Aspergillus fungi and the level of aflatoxin contamination in food.Drought stress is one of the factors that increase susceptibility of plants to Aspergillus and thus aflatoxin contamination.A recent drought is thought to be responsible for finding of trace amounts of aflatoxin in some of the corn harvested in the United States.Although it's too soon to know whether aflatoxin will be a significant problem,since United States is the world's largest corn producer and exporter,this has raised alarm bells.Strict regulations and testing of finished foods and feeds in the United States should prevent a major health scare,and prevent human exposure to deleterious levels of aflatoxin.Unfortunately,such regulations and testing are not in place in many countries.The purpose of this editorial is to summarize the current knowledge on association of aflatoxin and HCC,encourage future research and draw attention to this global public health issue.
基金Supported by Razi Vaccine And Serum Research Institute,Arak Branch,Iran(Grant No.TUMS/CMBRC-89-001)
文摘Objective:To determine lactic acid bacteria's capability to enhance the process of binding and isolating aflatoxin B1 and to utilize such lactic acid bacteria as a food supplement or probiotic products for preventing absorption of aflatoxin Bl in human and animal bodies.Methods:In the present research,the bacteria were isolated from five different sources.For surveying the capability of the bacteria in isolating aflatoxin Bl,ELISA method was implemented,and for identifying the resultant strains through 16S rRNA sequencing method,universal primers were applied.Results:Among the strains which were isolated,two strains of Lactobacillus pentosus and Lactobacillus beveris exhibited the capability of absorbing and isolating aflatoxin Bl by respectively absorbing and discharging 17.4%and 34.7%of the aforementioned toxin existing in the experiment solution.Conclusions:Strains of Lactobacillus pentosus and Lactobacillus beveris were isolated from human feces and local milk samples,respectively.And both strains has the ability to isolate or bind with aflatoxin Bl.
基金financial support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.21575153,21435008,21874146)Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(No.XDB14030200)the Key Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(No.KFZD-SW-203)
文摘Aflatoxin B1(AFB1)is a highly toxic mycotoxin,and rapid and sensitive detection of AFB1 is in demand for food safety and environmental analysis.Here we described a simple aptamer molecular beacon assay for rapid detection of aflatoxin B1(AFB1)by using an aptamer with a fluorescein(FAM)label at the 50 end and a fluorescence quencher(black hole quencher 1,BHQ1)at the 30 end.In the presence of AFB1,the aptamer probe bound with AFB1 and induced a hairpin structure,drawing FAM and BHQ1 into close proximity and leading to fluorescence quenching.This assay allowed for a detection limit of 3.9 nmol/L and a dynamic range from 3.9 nmol/L to 4 mmol/L.Specificity test showed other mycotoxins including ochratoxin A,ochratoxin B,fumonisin B1,fumonisin B2,and zearalenone had negligible influence on detection of AFB1.AFB1 spiked in diluted liquor wine,methanol,or corn flour samples was successfully detected by using this aptamer probe,and the assay showed potential for real sample analysis.
