ARS | Publication request: MYCOTOXINS ASSOCIATED WITH ALLERGENIC FUNGI

Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: October 15, 2005
Publication Date: December 15, 2005
Citation: Bhatnagar, D., Ehrlich, K. 2005. MYCOTOXINS ASSOCIATED WITH ALLERGENIC FUNGI. In: Kurup, V.P., (Ed.), Mold Allergy, Biology, and Pathogenesis. Research Signpost, Trivandrum. pp. 389-412

Technical Abstract: Many filamentous fungi associated with allergenic exposures in humans are known to produce toxic low molecular weight, non-proteinaceous organic compounds after cessation of vegetative growth phase. These compounds, called mycotoxins, are produced in the mycelia, but can accumulate in reproductive and survival structures of fungi or be secreted. The toxic effects of mycotoxins are as diverse as the fungal species that make them. Although some mycotoxins are acutely toxic, others have as yet not well characterized chronic toxic effects. This review will focus on the biosynthesis and the known toxic effects of the mycotoxins associated with filamentous fungi known to cause allergenic responses in humans.