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Pleurotus eryngii Culture Filtrate and Aqueous Extracts Alleviate Aflatoxin B1 Synthesis

Summary

This research demonstrates that extracts from oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus eryngii) can effectively reduce dangerous aflatoxin contamination in food and feed by up to 94%. Aflatoxins are toxic compounds produced by mold fungi that can cause serious health problems including cancer. The study shows that mushroom compounds work through multiple mechanisms including antioxidant activity and enzyme production, offering a natural and environmentally friendly alternative to harmful synthetic chemicals for protecting our food supply.

Background

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus is a highly toxic and carcinogenic mycotoxin that contaminates food and feed globally. Current control methods using antifungals and synthetic chemicals are ineffective and harmful. Recent research suggests that mushroom metabolites, particularly polysaccharides from Pleurotus species, have potential in inhibiting aflatoxin synthesis.

Objective

This study evaluates the effects of mycelial culture filtrates and aqueous extracts from two Tunisian varieties of Pleurotus eryngii on the growth and aflatoxin B1 production of Aspergillus flavus. The research aims to develop a greener, more sustainable solution to control aflatoxin synthesis.

Results

Pleurotus eryngii var. ferulae culture filtrate showed 94% inhibition of aflatoxin synthesis at both 0.5% and 1% concentrations. Pleurotus eryngii var. elaeoselini aqueous extract achieved 48.06% growth inhibition on day three at 0.5% concentration. Both varieties demonstrated antioxidant activity, with var. elaeoselini culture filtrate showing the highest antioxidant efficiency (IC50 = 0.54 mg/mL).

Conclusion

Pleurotus eryngii culture filtrates and aqueous extracts effectively inhibit aflatoxin B1 synthesis by Aspergillus flavus through a combination of mechanisms including antioxidant activity, polysaccharide action, and enzymatic degradation. These findings support the potential of Pleurotus eryngii metabolites as a sustainable, greener alternative to synthetic chemicals for controlling aflatoxin contamination in food and feed.
  • Published in:Food Science & Nutrition,
  • Study Type:Experimental Laboratory Study,
  • Source: 10.1002/fsn3.70739, PMID: 41122219
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