Aflatoxins: Toxicity, Occurrences and Chronic Exposure

Abstract

Aflatoxins, a carcinogenic group of mycotoxins, are naturally occurring toxic fungi that cause illness in both animals and humans. Predominantly found in hot and humid areas, aflatoxins are generated by Aspergillus fungi and are found in a large percentage of the world’s food supply. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), being the most potent of the over 18 aflatoxins discovered, is most noted for its role in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in humans and animals, unfortunately, many features of the illnesses it causes and the mechanisms that produce them, remain unexplained. This review examined AFB1 metabolism; its epoxidation and DNA adduction, its correlations to cancer initiation and the mechanisms that underpin it, the synergistic interactions with stunted growth associated with AFB1 intake and kwashiorkor, involvement of oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species. Its harmful effects, including growth retardation, starvation, and immunotoxicity, were also discussed, delving into new findings of AFB1 contamination in worldwide food sources. This review indicated that AFB1 is commonly found in high concentrations in food supplies, notably in maize. To lessen the global burden of AFB1 toxicity, data gathered through this review emphasized the necessity to apply novel and existing techniques to prevent these toxins on other diseases.