mycotoxin contamination – Page 2

The Effect of Aspergillus flavus on Seedling Development in Maize

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Aspergillus flavus is a dangerous fungus that contaminates maize crops and produces toxic aflatoxins harmful to human and animal health. Researchers tested maize varieties to identify which are naturally resistant to this fungus using a simple laboratory method. They found significant differences in resistance among maize varieties and proposed a new evaluation system to help identify resistant varieties before they are sold to farmers, which could help reduce aflatoxin contamination in our food supply.

Effects of Temperature, pH, and Relative Humidity on Growth of Penicillium crustosum OM1 Isolated from Pears and Its Penitrem A Production

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Researchers found that a mold called Penicillium crustosum produces a dangerous neurotoxin called penitrem A that can contaminate pears and other foods. The study showed that this mold grows best at cool temperatures (25°C) but produces the most toxin at slightly cooler temperatures (22°C) with neutral acidity and high moisture levels. Understanding these conditions helps us develop better strategies to prevent this toxin from contaminating the fresh fruit we eat.

Comparative genome analysis of patulin-producing Penicillium paneum OM1 isolated from pears

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This research examined the genetic makeup of a mold called Penicillium paneum that contaminates pears and apples by producing a toxic substance called patulin. Scientists sequenced the entire genome and identified all the genes responsible for patulin production. They found that this mold has 33 different gene clusters for producing various toxic compounds, with the patulin-producing genes being highly similar to those in other related molds. This genetic knowledge could help develop better strategies to prevent patulin contamination in fruit crops.

Algae and Cyanobacteria Fatty Acids and Bioactive Metabolites: Natural Antifungal Alternative Against Fusarium sp

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This review examines how fatty acids and other compounds from algae and cyanobacteria can naturally fight Fusarium fungus, which damages crops like wheat, corn, and tomatoes. Traditional chemical fungicides harm the environment and can make fungi resistant, so scientists are exploring algae-based alternatives that work sustainably. The research shows these algal compounds can damage fungal cell membranes and boost plant defenses against infection. While promising, more work is needed to develop these natural solutions for practical farm use.

Phylogeny of Aspergillus section Circumdati and inhibition of ochratoxins potential by green synthesised ZnO nanoparticles

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Researchers identified four species of Aspergillus fungus that contaminate crops and produce poisonous compounds called ochratoxins. They found that specially made zinc oxide nanoparticles, created using an environmentally friendly method with basil extract, can significantly reduce the amount of ochratoxins produced by these fungi. This discovery could help protect agricultural products from contamination and improve food safety.

Molecular identification and mycotoxins analysis of some fungal isolates from postharvest decayed apple in Qena, Egypt

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Apples stored after harvest can be infected by blue mold fungi that produce toxic substances called mycotoxins. Researchers in Egypt identified five fungal strains from rotted apples and measured the amounts of two dangerous toxins they produce. The findings show that these fungi can cause significant food safety risks and economic losses, highlighting the need for better storage and handling practices.

Modeling Temperature Requirements for Growth and Toxin Production of Alternaria spp. Associated with Tomato

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Researchers studied how temperature affects three types of Alternaria fungi that infect tomatoes and produce harmful toxins. They found that warm temperatures between 25-30°C are best for fungal growth and toxin production, though different species prefer slightly different temperatures. The study created mathematical formulas to predict when these fungi will contaminate tomatoes, which could help farmers prevent losses and protect food safety.

Microbiome Analysis Reveals Biocontrol of Aspergillus and Mycotoxin Mitigation in Maize by the Growth-Promoting Fungal Endophyte Colletotrichum tofieldiae Ct0861

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Researchers discovered that a beneficial fungal endophyte called Colletotrichum tofieldiae can protect maize crops from contamination by harmful Aspergillus fungi that produce dangerous toxins called aflatoxins. When maize plants were treated with this endophyte either through seed coating or leaf spraying, they grew better and produced higher yields while also experiencing a dramatic 90% reduction in fungal contamination and extremely low aflatoxin levels. The protection mechanism appears to work indirectly by boosting the plant’s own defense systems rather than through direct combat with the pathogenic fungus, offering a sustainable and safe solution for improving crop quality and food safety.

Effect of Temperature, Relative Humidity, and Incubation Time on the Mycotoxin Production by Fusarium spp. Responsible for Dry Rot in Potato Tubers

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This research examines how temperature and humidity during potato storage affect the growth of disease-causing fungi and their toxic byproducts. The study found that warmer, more humid storage conditions dramatically increase both fungal growth and dangerous toxin production in potatoes. Certain potato varieties became more susceptible to disease as they were stored longer. The toxin levels detected exceeded European safety limits, suggesting contaminated potatoes should be removed to protect consumer health.

Fusarium Species Infecting Greenhouse-Grown Cannabis (Cannabis sativa) Plants Show Potential for Mycotoxin Production in Inoculated Inflorescences and from Natural Inoculum Sources

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This research examines dangerous fungal infections in greenhouse-grown cannabis plants. Scientists found that Fusarium fungi, which also infect grains, can infect cannabis flowers and produce harmful toxins (mycotoxins) that could harm consumers. The study identified that nearby tall fescue plants may be spreading these fungi into greenhouses. Different cannabis varieties showed different levels of toxin accumulation despite similar fungal colonization, suggesting some varieties may be naturally more resistant.

Research Keyword: mycotoxin contamination