Cyanotoxins

Abstract

Summary: Cyanobacteria produce a wide range of bioactive compounds in marine, transient, freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems. Some of these compounds show very high toxicity (μg kg-1 body weight) in mammalian systems via a variety of molecular and pathogenic mechanisms. The health significance of these products, which include genotoxic-, tumour-promoting-, hepato- and neurotoxic agents, is confirmed by the continuing occurrence of associated human and animal toxicoses. Here, we review the range of toxins produced by cyanobacteria (cyanotoxins), their production, analysis, multiple fates and possible environmental significance in aquatic ecosystems. Gaps in knowledge are identified and progress in the risk management of cyanotoxins is also considered.