zearalenonerelated

Zearalenone-related denotes substances, effects, and research topics linked to zearalenone (ZEA), a Fusarium-produced mycotoxin with estrogenic activity. ZEA is a resorcylic acid lactone frequently detected in cereals such as corn, wheat, and barley, particularly under damp, cool harvest conditions.

Occurrence: Contamination occurs during pre-harvest growth and post-harvest storage of cereals and can co-occur with other Fusarium toxins, leading to dietary exposure in humans and animals.

Chemistry and metabolism: ZEA can be metabolized to active metabolites, notably α-zearalenol and β-zearalenol, which may differ in estrogenic potency. Related metabolites include zearalanol and zearalanone, contributing to the overall estrogenic burden.

Effects and risk: ZEA and its metabolites bind estrogen receptors, potentially disrupting reproductive function. In livestock, particularly pigs, exposure can cause reproductive tract changes and reduced fertility; human effects are less clear but of concern for chronic intake.

Detection and regulation: Agencies monitor zearalenone using methods such as HPLC, LC-MS/MS, and immunoassays. Regulatory limits in cereals vary by country, with risk assessments addressing chronic exposure and vulnerable populations.

Prevention and mitigation: Good agricultural and storage practices, grain sorting and cleaning, proper drying, and storage limit fungal growth. Milling can reduce ZEA in finished products; some decontamination approaches and binders are studied.