mikrocystisiiniä

Mikrocystiiniä is a group of cyclic peptides produced by certain species of cyanobacteria, commonly known as blue-green algae. These toxins are hepatotoxins, meaning they primarily affect the liver. The most common and studied microcystin is microcystin-LR.

Microcystins are formed through a complex non-ribosomal peptide synthesis pathway. They are potent inhibitors of protein phosphatases 1 and 2A, enzymes crucial for regulating a wide range of cellular functions. This inhibition leads to hyperphosphorylation of cellular proteins, causing cellular damage and dysfunction, particularly in liver cells.

Exposure to microcystins can occur through ingestion of contaminated drinking water or recreational contact with water bodies containing bloom-forming cyanobacteria. Symptoms of microcystin poisoning can range from mild gastrointestinal issues like nausea and vomiting to more severe liver damage, including abdominal pain, jaundice, and in extreme cases, liver failure. The severity of symptoms depends on the dose, duration of exposure, and the specific microcystin variant.

Preventive measures focus on controlling cyanobacterial blooms and treating contaminated water. This includes managing nutrient runoff into water bodies, which fuels algal growth, and implementing water treatment processes that can effectively remove or inactivate microcystins. Monitoring of water bodies for the presence of cyanobacteria and their toxins is also essential for public health.