Aflatoxin induced hepatocarcinogenesis in ducks

Area of Science:

• Toxicology
• Hepatopathology
• Veterinary Medicine

Background:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant global health concern.
• Aflatoxins are potent hepatocarcinogens found in contaminated food and feed.
• Understanding the toxicological effects of aflatoxins in avian models is crucial for public health and food safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the carcinogenic effects of pure aflatoxin B1 on duck hepatic tissue.
• To document the pathological changes and tumor development in ducks exposed to aflatoxin B1.
• To assess the biochemical and hematological alterations associated with aflatoxin B1-induced hepatotoxicity.

Main Methods:

• Twelve white Pekin ducks (2-3 months old) were administered 0.04165 mg/kg body weight of pure aflatoxin B1 every third day for six months.
• Regular monitoring of body weight, hemoglobin levels, total serum protein, albumin, globulin, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).
• Analysis of serum enzymes (AST, ALT, GGT, ALP) and histopathological examination of liver tissues to identify neoplastic lesions.

Main Results:

• Ducks exhibited reduced body weight and hemoglobin levels starting from the third month.
• Significant increases in ESR and serum enzymes (AST, ALT, GGT, ALP) were observed.
• Ten out of twelve ducks developed hepatic tumors by day 180, including hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocellular carcinoma; two showed chronic hepatitis.

Conclusions:

• Pure aflatoxin B1 is a potent hepatocarcinogen in ducks, inducing significant pathological changes and tumor formation.
• Biochemical and hematological markers can serve as indicators of aflatoxin B1-induced liver damage.
• This study highlights the risk of aflatoxin B1 in poultry and its implications for food safety.