ARS | Publication request: Introduction to the Special Issues on Emerging Issues in Mycotoxin Research

Submitted to: Journal of Toxicology Toxins Reviews
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: October 10, 2008
Publication Date: November 16, 2008
Citation: Abbas, H.K. 2008. Introduction to the Special Issues on Emerging Issues in Mycotoxin Research. Journal of Toxicology Toxins Reviews. 28(2&3):61-62.

Technical Abstract: Mycotoxins are poisonous substances produced by fungi that may produce specific deleterious effects on animals (including humans), plants (phytotoxins), or other microorganisms (antibiotics). Mycotoxins have a global concern because of their impact in human and animal health. Although diseases caused by mycotoxins have been recognized for centuries, many of the toxins have only recently been identified, characterized in the last 50 years. Additional concerns rose from the discovery that mycotoxin contamination can be transmitted to humans through the ingestion infestation of contaminated animal products such as dairy and meat. The availability of novel molecular tools has made it possible to understand the regulation and expression of mycotoxin production as well as assess the effects on the mycotoxin-exposed organism. A wealth of new research has become available on the implications and management of mycotoxin contamination in developed countries and developing countries. Advanced technologies in the taxonomy of fungi, fermentation and separation science for the production and concentration of mycotoxins and more sensitive techniques for identification and detection of mycotoxins, have been responsible for these rapid advances. The aim of these special issues of the Journal of Toxicology - Toxin Reviews is to provide a recent update on emerging areas in mycotoxin investigation. These issues cover topics on mycotoxins that deal with different aspects of this important field. Advances in this field are occurring rapidly and researchers and health administrators need to be informed of new discoveries. It is our intention that this information will be of use to scientists in the field of mycotoxins and be of benefit to those in industry who struggle to maintain safe and high quality products.