Early-life AFB1 exposure: DNA methylation and hormone alterations

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Oluwakemi A Rotimi1, Opeyemi C De Campos1, Isaacson B Adelani1

  • 1Department of Biochemistry, Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria.

Vitamins and Hormones
|March 2, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Early exposure to Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in utero impacts hormone levels and DNA methylation. This can lead to reduced testosterone and altered gene expression affecting growth and immunity.

Area of Science:

  • Toxicology
  • Endocrinology
  • Epigenetics

Background:

  • Aflatoxins are toxic mold metabolites contaminating food and feed.
  • Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a prevalent and potent toxin, with early-life exposure posing significant risks.
  • Contaminant exposure during critical developmental windows can induce lasting biological effects.

Approach:

  • This review examines the impact of early-life Aflatoxin B1 exposure.
  • Focuses on alterations in hormonal profiles and DNA methylation patterns.
  • Synthesizes findings from existing research on developmental AFB1 exposure.

Key Points:

  • In utero exposure to AFB1 alters steroid and growth hormone levels.
  • Testosterone levels are reduced later in life following early-life AFB1 exposure.
  • AFB1 exposure affects DNA methylation in genes crucial for growth, immunity, and inflammation.

Conclusions:

  • Early-life exposure to Aflatoxin B1 has demonstrable effects on endocrine function and epigenetic regulation.
  • These changes may have long-term health implications, influencing growth, immune response, and inflammatory processes.
  • Understanding these effects is crucial for mitigating risks associated with dietary aflatoxin contamination.
Keywords:
Aflatoxin B1DNA methylationEarly-lifeHormone

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