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Use of chick embryo in screening for toxin-producing fungi
Abstract:
The toxinogenicity of 720 fungal isolates was evaluated using the Chisk Embryotoxicity Screening Test (CHEST, phase I). Three hundred and sixteen (43.9%) isolates produced some of the 23 identified mycotoxins, unidentified toxic metabolites were produced by 170 (23.6%), and 234 (32.5%) isolates showed no signs of toxinogenicity. The 24 h lasting chick embryo assay proved very suitable for detecting fungal products with general cytotoxic potential where it yielded results consistent with those obtained with cell cultures and higher organisms. Simplicity, rapidity, and modest laboratory equipment belong to the advantages of this reliable and non expensive screening procedure.
Insights
The Chisk Embryotoxicity Screening Test (CHEST) effectively screened 720 fungal isolates for toxin production. This reliable and inexpensive method identified mycotoxins and toxic metabolites in over 67% of isolates tested.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Toxicology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Fungal contamination poses risks due to mycotoxin production.
- Accurate screening methods are crucial for identifying toxigenic fungi.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the toxinogenicity of fungal isolates using the Chisk Embryotoxicity Screening Test (CHEST).
- To assess the suitability of CHEST for detecting fungal cytotoxic metabolites.
Main Methods:
- Tested 720 fungal isolates for toxin production.
- Employed the 24-hour Chisk Embryotoxicity Screening Test (CHEST).
- Correlated CHEST results with cell culture and higher organism assays.
Main Results:
- 316 isolates (43.9%) produced identified mycotoxins.
- 170 isolates (23.6%) produced unidentified toxic metabolites.
- 234 isolates (32.5%) showed no toxinogenicity.
- CHEST results aligned with cell culture and higher organism assays.
Conclusions:
- CHEST is a reliable, rapid, and cost-effective method for screening fungal toxinogenicity.
- The chick embryo assay is suitable for detecting general cytotoxic potential of fungal products.
- CHEST offers a practical alternative to traditional toxicity testing methods.