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Removal of Aflatoxin B1 by Edible Mushroom-Forming Fungi and Its Mechanism

Summary

This research discovered that edible mushroom varieties, particularly Bjerkandera adusta, can remove harmful aflatoxin B1 poison from food and animal feed. The mushroom fungi work by binding the toxin to their cell structures, acting like a sponge that soaks up the dangerous chemical. This natural method is safer and more practical than chemical or heat-based approaches because it doesn’t damage the nutritional value of food while making it safer to eat.

Background

Aflatoxins are highly toxic secondary metabolites produced by Aspergillus species, with aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) being the most potent naturally occurring carcinogen. Current physical and chemical methods for AFB1 removal have limitations as they can reduce nutritional value and alter food quality. Biological methods using microorganisms offer promising alternatives for detoxification.

Objective

This study evaluated five edible mushroom-forming fungi from South Korea for their ability to remove AFB1 and investigated the mechanisms of AFB1 elimination. The research focused on understanding the role of different fungal cellular components in AFB1 removal activity.

Results

Bjerkandera adusta and Auricularia auricular-judae showed the most significant AFB1 removal activities (96.3% and 100% respectively) after 14 days. Cell debris from B. adusta exhibited the highest AFB1 removal activity (95%), followed by cell lysates (77%) and exopolysaccharides (48%). AFB1 binding occurred primarily on cell wall components during early incubation, with additional binding to cell lysates and exopolysaccharides after saturation.

Conclusion

AFB1 removal by B. adusta occurs mainly through binding onto cell debris and cell wall components during early incubation, with additional binding to cell lysates and exopolysaccharides after saturation. Ligninolytic enzymes were not involved in AFB1 removal. Edible mushroom-forming fungi like B. adusta show potential as novel microorganisms for reducing AFB1 contamination in food and feed industries.
  • Published in:Toxins (Basel),
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: PMC8473272, PMID: 34564672
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