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Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only Publication Acceptance Date: 5/14/2014 Publication Date: 5/14/2014 Citation: Busman, M., Maragos, C.M., Mccormick, S.P. 2014. Masked mycotoxins in corn: an update [abstract]. Corn Dry Milling Conference. Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: Mycotoxins are frequent contaminants in corn infested with Aspergillus and Fusarium molds. Consumption of mycotoxin products have been shown to be harmful to both humans and animals. Mycotoxins can be “masked” or “hidden” from detection by common antibody-based and chemical analytical methods. The “masking” of the toxins can occur through a chemical modification of the toxin structure. The masking of the fungal toxin often is done by the host plant as a defense mechanism, but can also occur during grain processing. It has been demonstrated that a common form of toxin masking, glycosylation, can be readily removed in the digestive tract of mammals, regenerating the “un-masked” mycotoxin. Work at USDA-ARS leading to the characterization of masked mycotoxins and the determination their relevance to health concerns associated with mycotoxins continues. In particular, progress has been made in obtaining detailed chemical characterization, development of antibody-based methods, and production of research materials for masked mycotoxins. |
