Zearalenone and the Immune Response

Area of Science:

• Toxicology
• Immunology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Zearalenone (ZEA) is an estrogenic mycotoxin with phytoestrogenic properties.
• ZEA and its metabolites bind to estrogen receptors, causing reproductive disorders and hormonal imbalances, particularly in female pigs.
• ZEA significantly influences the immune system, exhibiting both immunostimulatory and immunosuppressive effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the comprehensive effects of Zearalenone (ZEA) on innate and acquired immunity.
• To explore the mechanisms by which ZEA modulates immune responses.
• To assess the immunotoxicity of ZEA on various immune cells and organs.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of over 150 publications on Zearalenone (ZEA).
• Analysis of in vitro and in vivo experimental data.
• Examination of ZEA's impact on innate immunity (inflammatory response) and acquired immunity (humoral and cellular responses).

Main Results:

• ZEA exposure leads to reproductive disorders, including reduced fertility and abnormal fetal development.
• ZEA modulates immune responses, affecting phagocytes (innate immunity) and lymphocytes (acquired immunity).
• ZEA impacts immune organs and exerts both immunostimulatory and immunosuppressive effects.

Conclusions:

• Zearalenone (ZEA) poses a significant risk to animal reproduction and immune function.
• While studies are increasing, current data on ZEA's immunomodulatory mechanisms are insufficient.
• Further research is essential to fully elucidate the immunotoxicity of ZEA and its derivatives.