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Effect of Ochratoxin A (OTA) on the Immune System: A Systematic Review

Yusif Mubarik1,2, Shadrach Tetteh Boyetey3, Anastasia Rosebud Aikins1,2

  • 1West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, University of Ghana, Legon, Greater Accra, Accra P.O. Box LG 54, Ghana.

Toxins
|May 27, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Ochratoxin A (OTA) exposure harms the immune system by damaging organs and impairing both innate and adaptive immunity. This mycotoxin leads to immune suppression, affecting T-cell differentiation and antibody production.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Toxicology
  • Mycotoxicology

Background:

  • Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a prevalent mycotoxin with known adverse health effects.
  • Its impact on the immune system requires comprehensive evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review the effects of OTA on the immune system.
  • To focus on OTA's impact on immune organs, innate and adaptive immunity, and associated signaling pathways.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of existing studies on Ochratoxin A.
  • Analysis of research detailing OTA's effects on immune system organs and functions.

Main Results:

  • OTA exposure disrupts immune organ function, causing weight loss and histological damage.
  • Impaired epithelial barrier integrity, reduced macrophage function, and increased pro-inflammatory cytokines observed.
  • OTA negatively regulates T-cell differentiation (Th1, Th17) and humoral immunity, leading to immune suppression.

Conclusions:

  • Ochratoxin A significantly compromises immune system integrity and function.
  • OTA poses a risk through its immunosuppressive properties affecting multiple immune facets.
Keywords:
adaptiveimmunityinnateochratoxin A (OTA)

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