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Immunohistochemical Detection of Aflatoxin in Lesions of Aflatoxin-producing Aspergillus flavus Infection
Takeshi Mori1, Hiroshi Abe2, Mitsutaka Yoshida3
1Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine.
Abstract:
Aflatoxin produced by Aspergillus flavus is known to be strongly related to liver injury (hepatocellular carcinoma) and immune system damage involving leukocytes. This toxin suppresses both the cell-mediated immune system and macrophage function, and decreases the production of complement and interferon molecules.
Purpose:
To evaluate the presence of aflatoxin in infectious lesions as well as how the toxin is taken up by leukocytes.
Method:
Pathological specimens from a patient who died from aspergillosis caused by aflatoxin-producing A. flavus were used. Anti-aflatoxin B1 antibody was reacted with paraffin-embedded lesion specimens from the heart, kidney, and thyroid gland of the patient and observed microscopically.
Result:
Positive reactions were detected in fungal elements and leukocytes (neutrophils and macrophages) in inflammatory lesions.
Conclusion:
Within the patient's body, A. flavus likely produced aflatoxin, which then was taken up by neutrophils and macrophages.These results suggest that leukocyte function and the immune mechanism are locally suppressed by aflatoxin.
Insights
Aflatoxin, a toxin from Aspergillus flavus, was found in infectious lesions and taken up by immune cells like neutrophils and macrophages. This suggests aflatoxin locally suppresses immune function within the body.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Immunology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Aflatoxin, produced by Aspergillus flavus, is linked to liver damage and immune suppression.
- It impairs cell-mediated immunity, macrophage function, and reduces complement and interferon production.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detect aflatoxin in infectious lesions.
- To investigate the uptake of aflatoxin by leukocytes.
Main Methods:
- Pathological specimens from a patient with aspergillosis were examined.
- Anti-aflatoxin B1 antibody was used to detect the toxin in paraffin-embedded tissue from the heart, kidney, and thyroid.
Main Results:
- Aflatoxin was detected in fungal elements within inflammatory lesions.
- Positive reactions for aflatoxin were observed in leukocytes, including neutrophils and macrophages.
Conclusions:
- Aspergillus flavus likely produced aflatoxin in vivo.
- Neutrophils and macrophages internalized aflatoxin, indicating local suppression of leukocyte function and immune mechanisms.
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