TOXICOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF MYCOTOXIN CITRININ

Abstract

Citrinin (CTN) is a secondary product of fungal metabolism and contaminant of various food and feed materials. This mycotoxin is produced by several fungal strains belonging to the genera Penicillium, Aspergillus and Monascus. In vitro and in vivo studies have shown clear evidence for reproductive toxicity and teratogenic, nephrotoxic, hepatotoxic and embryotoxic effects of citrinin. Mycotoxins can interfere in the cascade of cell machinery and thus affect cellular function. Citrinin is known mycotoxin that is spread over the world, however the mechanism of its action and other functions are still not known properly. Thus, the aim of this review paper is to summarize knowledge about mycotoxin citrinin, to describe its properties and effects on animal organism. In particular, known mechanism of toxicity is shown. In addition levels of exposure and bioaccessibility of citrinin is discussed. In the future, strategies for preventing the contamination by citrinin and the possibilities of its elimination should be investigated.