Mycotoxin poisoning

Mycotoxins are toxic chemicals produced by fungi. In its action decomposition of food, the fungi are capable of producing secondary metabolites, not essential for maintaining primary, but able to reach other species. These compounds, named generically mycotoxins, fungi confer a competitive advantage over other fungi and bacteria present on the environment. Almost all are cytotoxic, resulting in disruption of cell membranes and other structures, or interfering with vital processes such as protein synthesis and RNA or DNA. These are substances which fungi of importance to toxicologically. Are very heat stable (to withstand temperatures of around 270 ° C), but are sensitive to UV radiation Its toxic properties can be acute (effects may be identified as gastroenteritis), subacute or chronic. The chronic effects may be difficult to determine, since generally require a moderate intake over periods of time. Distinguished mycotoxins:
Zootóxicas: toxic to animals.
Phytotoxic: toxic to plants.
Antibiotics toxic to bacteria.

Detection and Prevention
Generally, the mycotoxin contamination is associated with improper management of plantings and / or the stock in inappropriate conditions of the products. The main factors involved are the temperature and humidity conditions related to storage. The best way of preventing, therefore, is adequate and quick drying of the product, which can be accomplished by exposure to the sun or in dryers suitable. The pest control (which contaminate the seeds and promote conditions favorable to the growth of fungi) is also essential.
It is possible the detection of fungi and aflatoxins in seeds, monitored by sampling and biochemical testing. These tests are used to establish the limits of acceptability acceptance of products for import / export. For aflatoxin, for example, the international limit is 4 to 50 micrograms / kg (or parts per billion). In most modern laboratories, there are several standardized tests, such as tests of enzyme-immunoassay (ELISA), thin layer chromatography (TLC), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), mass spectrometry (MS) and other methods. For the reliability of the results, it is important to collect representative samples of the seed lot analyzed by techniques pre-determined, which offers some difficulties.
We consume grains only from trusted sources, especially peanuts and corn. At the sign of the presence of fungi (mold), does not consume the food.
Other routes of inoculation
Although less studied, the airway inoculation of mycotoxins is also described. various mycotoxins have been detected in dust grains and organic mold spores. It was reported that these substances can penetrate the alveoli, causing local immune and inflammatory changes, among other effects.