Toxicity and Role of Fumonisins in Animal Diseases and Human Esophageal Cancer.

The research article discusses the toxicity and effects of fumonisins, a type of toxin produced by mold that contaminates corn and corn-based feeds, on animals and humans – particularly its link to esophageal cancer in areas where moldy corn is frequently consumed.

Background on Fumonisins

• Fumonisins are secondary metabolites produced by the Fusarium species of fungus, specifically Fusarium moniliforme and Fusarium proliferatum. These types of fungi are common contaminants of corn and corn-based feeds.
• These mycotoxins were only discovered in 1988, but they have been linked to several toxicoses, or poisoning conditions, in animals that consume contaminated corn or corn-based feed.

Effects of Fumonisins on Animals

• The toxic effects of fumonisins vary greatly among different species. For example, ingestion of contaminated corn or feed can lead to brain lesions in equids (horses and related animals), lung edema (fluid accumulation) in swine, and several negative effects in lab rats, including kidney toxicity (nephrotoxicity), liver toxicity (hepatotoxicity), and liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma).

Effects of Fumonisins on Humans

• Beyond effects on animals, fumonisins and their source fungus F. moniliforme have been suggested to be responsible for esophageal cancer in humans. This link is particularly seen in areas of the world where moldy corn is a common part of the diet.

Further Study and Regulatory Considerations

• The researchers indicate that studies are currently being conducted to understand the full extent of the threat posed by fumonisins. Specifically, these studies aim to determine whether regulatory controls would help manage hazards associated with fumonisin contaminants in the food supply.
• This could potentially involve establishing acceptable levels of fumonisins in food products, which would serve to minimize harm to both animals and humans consuming these foods.