Zearalenone mycotoxicosis: Pathophysiology and immunotoxicity

Abstract

Mycotoxicosis refers to the deleterious pathological effects of different types toxins produced by some worldwide distributing fungi. Mycotoxins, as secondary metabolites are affecting different organs and systems both in animal and human beings. Zeralenone (ZEA), the well-known estrogenic mycotoxins, is an immunotoxic agent. This macrocyclic beta-resorcyclic acid lactone, is mycotoxin procreated as a secondary metabolic byproduct by several types of Fusarium, encompassing F. roseum,F. culmorum, F. graminearum and different other types. Attributing to its potent estrogenic activity, ZEA has been incriminated as one of the major causes of female reproductive disorders. Thus, the purpose of the present review article is to appraise the pathophysiological consequences and sub sequent explore the progress in the research field of zearalenone immunotoxicities.