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Inhibitory effect of molybdenum and vanadium salts on aflatoxin B1 synthesis by Aspergillus flavus
Abstract:
The effects of the elements zinc, manganese, iron, copper, molybdenum, and vanadium, added in various salt forms, on mycelial weights and aflatoxin B1 accumulation in the mycelium of Aspergillus flavus were investigated in liquid shake cultures. Ammonium heptamolybdate, when added to a complete medium at concentrations of 50-100 mg/L, appreciably reduced aflatoxin B1 accumulation without affecting growth of the fungus. Sodium molybdate and sodium monovanadate also reduced aflatoxin B1 yields without affecting mycelial growth but to a lesser extent. The addition of zinc sulphate stimulated aflatoxin B1 production in all media used. The influence of the other trace elements on aflatoxin production depended on the level of trace elements present in the basal medium. In general, manganese chloride had a stimulatory effect, whereas copper sulphate depressed yields. Mycelial levels of aflatoxin had peaked and then declined before mycelial dry weights had reached maximum. High yields of aflatoxin B1 were obtained in media having a final pH as low as pH 2.8.
Insights
Ammonium heptamolybdate significantly reduced aflatoxin B1 production in Aspergillus flavus without impacting fungal growth. Other elements like zinc and manganese had varied effects on aflatoxin accumulation.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Food Science
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Aflatoxin B1 is a potent mycotoxin produced by Aspergillus flavus.
- Controlling aflatoxin contamination is crucial for food safety and agricultural economics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of various trace elements on aflatoxin B1 production and fungal growth.
- To identify specific elements or compounds that can inhibit aflatoxin B1 accumulation.
Main Methods:
- Liquid shake cultures of Aspergillus flavus were used.
- Different salt forms of zinc, manganese, iron, copper, molybdenum, and vanadium were added to the culture medium.
- Mycelial weights and aflatoxin B1 accumulation were measured.
Main Results:
- Ammonium heptamolybdate (50-100 mg/L) significantly reduced aflatoxin B1 without affecting mycelial growth.
- Sodium molybdate and sodium monovanadate also reduced aflatoxin B1, but to a lesser extent.
- Zinc sulfate stimulated aflatoxin B1 production, while manganese chloride generally stimulated and copper sulfate depressed it.
Conclusions:
- Molybdenum compounds show promise in controlling aflatoxin B1 contamination in Aspergillus flavus.
- Trace element supplementation can modulate mycotoxin production, with varying effects depending on the element and concentration.
- Further research into molybdenum's inhibitory mechanism is warranted for practical applications.