Abstract

AFLATOXICOSIS: A THREAT TO ANIMAL PRODUCTION AND HUMAN HEALTH

Abhishek Mishra*, Astha Tiwari and Jagnoor Singh Sandhu

ABSTRACT

Mycotoxins are small molecular mass compounds produced by genera fungus: like Aspergillus, Claviceps, penicillium and are toxic on consumption. Aflatoxins are a type of mycotoxin mainly produced by Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus parasiticus. Aflatoxicosis mainly causes hepatocellulopathy, hepatic carcinoma, bile duct proliferation, immunosuppression, renal impairment, hemorrhage and hepatic neuropathy. These fungus are generally inhabitants of tropical climate; so hot temperature and high humidity favours its infection to plants. These infected crops (for example: corn, peanut, cottonseed) causes aflatoxicosis when consumed by animals. The target organ for aflatoxins is liver and the host’s immune system. ELISA and liquid chromatography are widely used and are most efficient diagnostic techniques available across the globe. Due to its serious threat of economic losses to various industries; efficient management practices and proper storage facilities should be emphasized. It equally affects the poultry birds, animals and humans so it is an important issue to be noticed and acted upon. Precise therapy is not available so adsorbents like sodium bentonite, aluminosilicates, Mannan oligosaccharides with supportive therapy is beneficial.

Keywords: Aspergillosis, Aflatoxicosis, infected crops(corn, groundnut), Turkey X disease, Aflatoxin G2, Hepatocellulopathy, Immune deprivation, Thin layer chromatography, Indirect ELISA, Adsorbents.