Major Types of Aflatoxins and Their Metabolites
At least 14 different types of aflatoxin are produced in nature. Aflatoxin B1 is considered the most toxic and is produced by both Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. Aflatoxin G1 and G2 are produced exclusively by A. parasiticus. While the presence of Aspergillus in food products does not always indicate harmful levels of aflatoxin are also present, it does imply a significant risk in consumption. Aflatoxins M1, M2 were originally discovered in the milk of cows that fed on moldy grain. These compounds are products of a conversion process in the animal's liver. However, aflatoxin M1 is present in the fermentation broth of Aspergillus parasiticus.
- Aflatoxin B1 & B2, produced by Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus
- Aflatoxin G1 & G2, produced by Aspergillus parasiticus
- Aflatoxin M1, metabolite of aflatoxin B1 in humans and animals (exposure in ng levels can come from a mother's milk)
- Aflatoxin M2, metabolite of aflatoxin B2 in milk of cattle fed on contaminated foods
- Aflatoxicol
- Aflatoxin Q1 (AFQ1), major metabolite of AFB1 in in vitro liver preparations of other higher vertebrates
Read more about this topic: Aflatoxin
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