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Toxicity of mycotoxins for the rat pulmonary macrophage in vitro
Abstract:
The presence of mycotoxins in grains is well documented. Workers in grain handling occupations are commonly exposed to grain dust aerosols. Work in our laboratory has shown that T-2 toxin is highly toxic to rat alveolar macrophages in vitro, causing loss of viability, release of radiolabeled chromium, inhibition of macromolecular synthesis, inhibition of phagocytosis, and inhibition of macrophage activation. Similarly, patulin caused a significant release of radiolabeled chromium, decrease in ATP levels, significant inhibition of protein and RNA synthesis, and inhibition of phagocytosis. The data show that both T-2 toxin and patulin are highly toxic to rat alveolar macrophages in vitro. The data further suggest that the presence of these mycotoxins in airborne respirable dust might present a hazard to exposed workers.
Insights
Mycotoxins like T-2 toxin and patulin are toxic to rat alveolar macrophages. Airborne mycotoxins in grain dust may pose a health hazard to exposed workers.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Occupational Health
- Immunology
Background:
- Mycotoxins are frequently found in grains.
- Grain dust aerosols expose workers to potential toxins.
- Previous research indicates T-2 toxin and patulin toxicity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vitro toxicity of T-2 toxin and patulin on rat alveolar macrophages.
- To assess the potential health risks of airborne mycotoxins for grain handlers.
Main Methods:
- Rat alveolar macrophages were exposed to T-2 toxin and patulin in vitro.
- Cell viability, chromium release, ATP levels, and macromolecular synthesis were measured.
- Phagocytosis and macrophage activation were assessed.
Main Results:
- Both T-2 toxin and patulin significantly reduced macrophage viability and induced chromium release.
- T-2 toxin and patulin inhibited macromolecular synthesis (DNA, RNA, protein) and phagocytosis.
- Macrophage activation was also inhibited by T-2 toxin.
Conclusions:
- T-2 toxin and patulin demonstrate significant in vitro toxicity to rat alveolar macrophages.
- Airborne mycotoxins in respirable dust may represent a health hazard to occupationally exposed workers.