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Fumonisins and human health
1Tropical Child Health Group, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, UK.
Annals of Tropical Paediatrics
|January 7, 1999
Summary
Fumonisins, toxins from Fusarium moniliforme found in grains, are possibly carcinogenic and toxic to organs in animals. They inhibit sphingolipid biosynthesis, offering insights into diseases and potential therapeutic development.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Toxicology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Fumonisins are mycotoxins produced by Fusarium moniliforme, commonly found in staple crops like corn and sorghum.
- These toxins are classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.
- Fumonisins exhibit hepatotoxic, nephrotoxic, atherogenic, immunosuppressive, and embryotoxic effects in animal models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the toxicological profile and biochemical effects of fumonisins.
- To explore the potential role of fumonisins in human esophageal cancers.
- To identify methods for detoxifying fumonisin-contaminated foods and explore therapeutic applications.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on fumonisin production, toxicity, and biochemical mechanisms.
- Analysis of toxicological data from experimental animal systems.
- Investigation of fumonisin's inhibitory effects on sphingolipid biosynthesis.
Main Results:
- Fumonisins are prevalent in agricultural products and linked to potential human health risks, including cancer.
- Demonstrated toxicity in animal models, affecting the liver, kidneys, cardiovascular system, immune system, and embryonic development.
- Identified as potent inhibitors of sphingolipid biosynthesis, impacting cellular metabolism.
Conclusions:
- Fumonisins pose significant health risks due to their carcinogenic potential and systemic toxicity.
- Effective methods for detoxifying contaminated food sources are necessary.
- Fumonisins serve as valuable tools for studying sphingolipid metabolism and may inform the development of treatments for lysosomal storage diseases.