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Fumonisin B2 production by Aspergillus niger
Jens C Frisvad1, Jørn Smedsgaard, Robert A Samson
1Center for Microbial Biotechnology, BioCentrum-DTU, Technical University of Denmark, Søltofts Plads 221, DK-2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark.
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry
|October 13, 2007
Summary
The carcinogenic mycotoxin fumonisin B2 was found in Aspergillus niger, an industrially significant fungus. This discovery has major food safety implications, as A. niger is widely used in biotechnology.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Food Science
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Fumonisin B2 is a carcinogenic mycotoxin primarily known from Fusarium species.
- Aspergillus niger is a globally prevalent fungus with significant industrial applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential of Aspergillus niger to produce fumonisin B2.
- To compare fumonisin production by A. niger with that of Fusarium verticillioides.
Main Methods:
- Fungal cultures of A. niger and F. verticillioides were grown on various agar media.
- Fumonisins were extracted using methanol and analyzed via electrospray liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS).
Main Results:
- Fumonisin B2 was detected in A. niger cultures for the first time.
- A. niger produced fumonisin B2 most effectively on media with low water activity.
- F. verticillioides produced fumonisins B1, B2, and B3, while A. niger produced only B2.
Conclusions:
- The presence of fumonisin B2 in A. niger poses new food safety concerns.
- Industrial applications of A. niger may require reassessment due to potential mycotoxin contamination.
- Co-occurrence of ochratoxin A and fumonisins in A. niger strains presents a dual carcinogenic risk in food and feed.
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