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Transplacental transfer of T2-toxin: pathological effect
C Lafarge-Frayssinet1, K Chakor, P Lafont
1Institut de Recherches Scientifiques sur le Cancer, Villejuif, France.
Summary
T2-toxin crosses the placental barrier, affecting newborn rat immune systems. While thymus atrophy was reversible, spleen cell function was impaired, indicating developmental toxicity from contaminated food exposure.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Immunology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- T2-toxin is a mycotoxin found in contaminated food.
- Understanding its transplacental effects is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the transplacental effects of T2-toxin on the developing immune system of rat offspring.
- To assess immune cell function and histological changes in newborns exposed to T2-toxin in utero.
Main Methods:
- Pregnant rats were administered radioactive T2-toxin via injection or oral feeding.
- Newborn rats were assessed for body weight, thymus histology, and splenic/thymic cell lymphoblastic response to mitogens (PHA, LPS).
Main Results:
- T2-toxin radioactivity was detected in fetuses.
- Newborns exhibited thymus atrophy (reversible) and impaired spleen B and T cell responsiveness.
- Histological analysis revealed thymic and splenic structural abnormalities.
Conclusions:
- T2-toxin readily crosses the placental barrier.
- Exposure to T2-toxin at levels found in contaminated food impairs the newborn immune system.
- These findings highlight potential risks to infant health from mycotoxin-contaminated food sources.