Mycotoxin Profile

Aspergillus is the most prevalent mold group in the environment.  It has caused billions of dollars of in damage to crops and livestock.  Two of the most common Aspergillus mycotoxins are aflatoxin and ochratoxin.  The main target of these toxins is the liver.  These toxins have been found in all major cereal crops including peanuts, corn, cotton, millet, rice, sorghum, sunflower seeds, wheat, and a variety of spices.  Theyare also found in eggs, milk, and meat from animals fed contaminated grains.  Diseases caused by Aspergillus are called aspergillosis.  The most common route of infection is through the respiratory system.  Aspergillus can cause severe asthma when the mold colonizes the lung, forming a granulomatous disease.

There are over 200 species of Penicillium that have been discovered.  Penicillium chrysogenum is the most common of these species.  It is often found in indoor environments and is responsible for many allergic reactions.  Penicillium is also a known contaminant in many different food items.  Many different types of citrus fruits can become contaminated with Penicillium, but it can also contaminate seeds and grains.  One reason that Penicillium is such a common infestation is because of its ability to thrive in low humidity.  In the home, Penicillium can be found in wallpaper, carpet, furniture, and fiberglass insulation.  The most common mycotoxin produced by Penicillium is ochratoxin (OTA).  Ochratoxin is nephrotoxic, which means that it damages the kidneys.  It is also carcinogenic.

t types of grains including corn and wheat.  Exposure to mycotoxins from Fusarium can lead to both acute and chronic effects.  These symptoms can include abdominal distress, malaise, diarrhea, emesis, and death.  ZEN possesses estrogenic effects and has been implicated in reproductive disorders.