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Toxicologic and histopathologic studies of Pleurotus ostreatus mushroom in mice
I H Al-Deen1, H A Twaij, A A Al-Badr
1Biological Research Centre, Scientific Research Council, Jadiriyah, Baghdad, Iraq.
Abstract:
The edible mushroom Pleurotus ostreatus (with locally reported toxic properties) was identified and collected 1-4 days after raining in the city of Baghdad. It was freshly extracted with distilled water at room temperature. Both oral and intraperitoneal routes were used for acute and subacute toxicity studies on mice. In spite of important toxicologic signs and findings on treated animals, the estimated 24-h LD50 values exceeded 3 g/kg for both routes of administration. However, the 30-day LD50 values were 319 mg/kg for oral and 1143 mg/kg for i.p. administration. Gross examination of the dissected organs revealed marked haemorrhages in the intestine, liver, lung and the kidney. Histopathologic examination revealed significant changes mainly in the liver, which took the form of inflammation and microabscesses. The present results were consistent with clinical findings available after human and animal ingestion of this mushroom in Iraq.
Insights
The edible mushroom Pleurotus ostreatus, despite its local reputation for toxicity, showed significant toxic effects in mice. Sub-chronic oral administration resulted in a 30-day lethal dose 50 (LD50) of 319 mg/kg, indicating moderate toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Mycology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Pleurotus ostreatus is an edible mushroom with reported toxic properties in specific regions.
- Mushroom poisoning is a significant public health concern, especially following unusual weather patterns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the acute and sub-acute toxicity of Pleurotus ostreatus extracted with distilled water.
- To determine lethal dose 50 (LD50) values and characterize toxicological effects in mice.
Main Methods:
- Mice were administered Pleurotus ostreatus extract via oral and intraperitoneal routes for acute and sub-acute toxicity studies.
- Gross necropsy and histopathological examinations were performed on dissected organs.
- 24-hour and 30-day LD50 values were calculated for both administration routes.
Main Results:
- Acute toxicity studies showed high 24-hour LD50 values (>3 g/kg) for both oral and intraperitoneal routes.
- Sub-acute toxicity revealed lower 30-day LD50 values: 319 mg/kg (oral) and 1143 mg/kg (intraperitoneal).
- Gross and histopathological findings included hemorrhages in multiple organs and liver inflammation with microabscesses.
Conclusions:
- Pleurotus ostreatus exhibits moderate toxicity, particularly with prolonged oral exposure.
- The observed toxicological effects in mice align with reported human and animal poisonings in Iraq.
- Further research into the specific toxic compounds and mechanisms is warranted.