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Aflatoxin B1 administration causes inflammation and apoptosis in the lungs and spleen
Sumit Rajaura1, Ram Babu2, Nitin Bhardwaj1
1Department of Zoology and Environmental Science, Gurukula Kangri (Deemed to be University), Haridwar, 249404, Uttarakhand, India.
Abstract:
Aflatoxin is a naturally occurring mycotoxin that has numerous toxic effects. The main aim of the present study was to evaluate the toxic effects of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) on the lungs and spleen. Mice were repeatedly exposed to AFB1 (0.3 mg/kg body weight) on alternate days for four weeks via oral route. The histopathological data in AFB1-treated mice show alveolar epithelial hyperplasia with inflammation and the presence of numerous alveolar macrophages with minimal hemorrhage. There was an increase in vascular neutrophils and interstitial inflammation. The branching of vessels was plugged with neutrophils. AFB1 administration also causes splenomegaly. The AFB1-treated spleen shows the tingible body macrophages (TBM) scattered within the splenic white pulp. Apoptosis may lead to atrophy in a selected region of the white pulp area. There is a decrease in cellularity within the periarteriolar lymphatic sheath (PALS). The inflammation causes the congestion of red pulp with the increase in nuclear debris, and vacuoles are also visible. The flow cytometry data further suggests enhanced apoptosis in lung and spleen cells.
Insights
Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) exposure in mice caused significant lung inflammation and spleen enlargement. AFB1 induced apoptosis in lung and spleen cells, highlighting its toxic effects.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Immunology
- Pathology
Background:
- Aflatoxins are naturally occurring mycotoxins with known toxic effects.
- Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a potent mycotoxin requiring further toxicological evaluation.
- Understanding AFB1's impact on organs is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the toxicological effects of AFB1 on murine lungs and spleen.
- To evaluate histopathological and cellular changes induced by AFB1 exposure.
- To assess AFB1-induced apoptosis in lung and spleen tissues.
Main Methods:
- Mice were orally administered AFB1 (0.3 mg/kg) every other day for four weeks.
- Histopathological examination of lung and spleen tissues was performed.
- Flow cytometry was used to analyze apoptosis in lung and spleen cells.
Main Results:
- AFB1 exposure led to lung alveolar epithelial hyperplasia, inflammation, and neutrophil infiltration.
- Splenomegaly was observed, with changes in splenic white pulp, including tingible body macrophages and decreased cellularity.
- Flow cytometry confirmed enhanced apoptosis in both lung and spleen cells following AFB1 treatment.
Conclusions:
- AFB1 induces significant lung and spleen pathology in mice.
- AFB1 exposure triggers inflammatory responses and apoptosis in immune organs.
- The study demonstrates the detrimental effects of AFB1 on lung and spleen tissues.
