trichothecene

Trichothecene is a large family of mycotoxins produced by several filamentous fungi, most notably Fusarium species such as Fusarium graminearum and Fusarium culmorum, as well as other genera including Myrothecium and Trichothecium. These compounds are chemically related sesquiterpenoids that share a common structural feature, a 12,13-epoxide ring, which is essential to their toxicity. Trichothecenes are relatively heat-stable and can contaminate cereal crops and their derived products, posing risks to food safety.

The primary mechanism of action is inhibition of eukaryotic protein synthesis. Trichothecenes bind to the ribosomal 60S subunit and interfere with peptidyl transferase activity, leading to ribosomal poisoning and ribotoxic stress. This can result in impaired cell function, apoptosis, and immune modulation. Toxic effects vary with compound, dose, route of exposure, and species, but can include vomiting, anorexia, reduced weight gain, immunosuppression, dermal irritation, and gastrointestinal damage.

Trichothecenes are categorized into Type A and Type B. Type A compounds lack an oxygenated function at carbon 8 and include toxins such as T-2 toxin, HT-2 toxin, and diacetoxyscirpenol (DAS). Type B compounds possess a carbonyl group at C-8 and include deoxynivalenol (DON, vomitoxin) and nivalenol (NIV). Major occurrences are linked to Fusarium infections of cereal crops, particularly under warm, humid conditions during flowering and grain development.

Detection and regulation rely on chromatographic methods, such as LC-MS/MS, to quantify contamination in grains and foods. Food safety programs aim to minimize exposure through resistant crops, good agricultural practices, proper storage, cleaning, and processing, alongside surveillance and regulatory limits in many countries.