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[Carcinogenic fungi (author's transl)]
Abstract:
An association of carcinogenicity of toxic substances with fungi is shortly documented and discussed. The actions of the aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) are particularly examined; but it is emphasized that other carcinogenic mycotoxins are more frequent and therefore more dangerous. The man is unable to live estranged from them, because they are a great part in ecological systems and in the work-place, resulting a potentially major threat. The range of food and feedstuffs potentially affected has been increased in recent years. In effect contamination is liable to occur during transport, storage and food processing. These studies demand organized cooperation among mycologists, chemists, pathologists, pharmacologists, physicians. In Japan such extensive collaboration has a long history.
Insights
Toxic fungi produce carcinogenic mycotoxins, posing a significant threat to human health and food safety. Increased contamination necessitates interdisciplinary collaboration for effective risk management.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Toxicology
- Pathology
Context:
- Fungal toxins, particularly mycotoxins, are associated with carcinogenicity.
- Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is examined, but other mycotoxins are noted as more frequent and dangerous.
- Humans coexist with fungi in ecological and workplace systems, presenting a constant threat.
Purpose:
- To document and discuss the association between toxic substances from fungi and carcinogenicity.
- To highlight the prevalence and danger of various carcinogenic mycotoxins.
- To emphasize the need for collaborative research and monitoring.
Summary:
- Carcinogenic substances produced by fungi, known as mycotoxins, represent a significant health risk.
- While Aflatoxin B1 is studied, other mycotoxins are more common and pose a greater danger.
- Contamination of food and feed is increasing due to factors in transport, storage, and processing.
Impact:
- Mycotoxin contamination poses a major threat to food and feed safety, affecting supply chains.
- Effective management requires organized cooperation among diverse scientific disciplines.
- Established collaborative models, like those in Japan, can serve as a framework for addressing this global challenge.