16 Feb Oxidative stress: A key mechanism of action behind mycotoxin toxicity
As we explained in this article, oxidative stress is caused by an imbalance between the production and the elimination of free radicals in the body, which leads to a harmful chain reaction that damages all kinds of biological molecules.
Recent investigations indicate that oxidative stress is behind the toxic effects produced by some mycotoxins:
Aflatoxins
Aflatoxin B1 is produced by the fungi Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. In poultry and swine, contamination by aflatoxins impairs productivity, produces lesions in the liver and depresses the immune system. Aflatoxin B1 is bioactivated to AFB1-8,9-epoxide, which binds to mitochondria and DNA and induces the production of free radicals. Then, the oxidative stress caused by the free radicals starts a metabolic pathway that ends with the death of the affected cells.
Fumonisins
Fumonisins are a group of at least 15 mycotoxins, produced by Fusarium verticillioides and Fusarium proliferatum. They block the synthesis of complex sphingolipids, which play an important role in protecting nerves, muscles, and membranes. Fumonisins cause pulmonary fibrosis and liver lesions in swine; in poultry, they are related to immune suppression.
Several studies have shown that fumonisins promote free radical production and accelerate lipid peroxidation in cell membranes, which leads to changes in the function and shape of the cells.
Trichothecenes
Trichothecenes are a large family of chemically related mycotoxins produced by seven different species of molds. The toxicity depends on each individual mycotoxin, but generally speaking, trichothecenes are irritant and immune suppressors.
Trichothecenes promote oxidative stress by increasing the production of free radicals, blocking the intracellular antioxidant defense system and starting inflammatory processes, which often lead to cellular death.
Ochratoxins
Ochratoxins are a group of mycotoxins produced by some Aspergillus species. They cause kidney and liver lesions, as well as immune deficiencies in swine and poultry.
Ochratoxin A is the most pathogenic, and it induces oxidative stress by both increasing the production of free radicals and impairing the antioxidant defense system, ultimately leading to cellular death.
To sum up
Oxidative stress is an important consequence of contamination by mycotoxins and a key mechanism of action behind their toxicity.
The best approach to manage mycotoxin risk is to implement an integrated strategy that includes good storing practices of the feedstuffs, and frequent mycotoxin analysis, as well as the regular use of a mycotoxin binder. We at PlusVet Animal Health help farms to set up a mycotoxin risk management program and to evaluate the risk posed by mycotoxin in their feedstuffs.
On the other hand, whenever the diets are contaminated by mycotoxins, it is recommended to administer an extra supplement of antioxidants (PhytoShield©), to protect the animals from the negative consequences of oxidative stress.
Source of the image: “DSC05022 Gibberella zea corn ear stalk rot” by Plant pests and diseases
Products of choice
PhytoShield© is an oral emulsion that contains essential oils, electrolytes and vitamins intended to promote growth, reduce oxidative stress, and keep the animals hydrated.
PlusBind© is a mixture of carefully selected silicates intended for the prevention of diseases and productivity losses related to the presence of all types of mycotoxins. It is indicated in poultry, pigs, aquaculture and ruminants.
The silicates present in PlusBind© have a highly expandable molecular structure. This characteristic gives the product a wide surface available for the adsorption of mycotoxins and therefore allows a high effectiveness at lower doses (0.5-1 kg per ton of feed).
PlusBind Bio© is a mixture of carefully selected silicates intended for the prevention of diseases and productivity losses related to the presence of all types of mycotoxins. It also contains plant extracts with prebiotic effect.
It is indicated in poultry, pigs and aquaculture.
The silicates present in PlusBind Bio© have a highly expandable molecular structure. This characteristic gives the product a wide surface available for the adsorption of mycotoxins and therefore allows a high effectiveness at lower doses (0.5-1 kg per ton of feed).
Do not miss any of our articles!
Subscribe to our monthly newsletter
Certain health statements may not be applicable in your region.