Biocontrol of aflatoxins using non-aflatoxigenic aspergillus flavus: A literature review

Abstract

Aflatoxins (AFs) are mycotoxins, predominantly produced by Aspergillus flavus, A. par-asiticus, A. nomius, and A. pseudotamarii. AFs are carcinogenic compounds causing liver cancer in humans and animals. Physical and biological factors significantly affect AF production during the pre-and post-harvest time. Several methodologies have been developed to control AF contamination, yet; they are usually expensive and unfriendly to the environment. Consequently, interest in using biocontrol agents has increased, as they are convenient, advanced, and friendly to the environment. Using non-aflatoxigenic strains of A. flavus (AF−) as biocontrol agents is the most promising method to control AFs’ contamination in cereal crops. AF− strains cannot produce AFs due to the absence of polyketide synthase genes or genetic mutation. AF− strains competitively exclude the AF+ strains in the field, giving an extra advantage to the stored grains. Several microbiological, molecular, and field-based approaches have been used to select a suitable biocontrol agent. The effectiveness of biocontrol agents in controlling AF contamination could reach up to 99.3%. Optimal inoculum rate and a perfect time of application are critical factors influencing the efficacy of biocontrol agents.