Α-Zearalenol

Α-Zearalenol is a mycotoxin produced by the Fusarium species of fungi. It is a non-steroidal estrogen that is related to zearalenone, and is one of the many mycotoxins that can contaminate crops and animal feed.

Chemical Structure and Properties

Α-Zearalenol is a resorcylic acid lactone that is structurally similar to the natural estrogen estradiol. It has a molecular formula of C18H22O5 and a molecular weight of 318.37 g/mol. The compound is soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone, but is less soluble in water.

Biosynthesis

Α-Zearalenol is biosynthesized by the Fusarium species of fungi, including Fusarium graminearum, Fusarium culmorum, and Fusarium equiseti. The biosynthesis process involves the conversion of farnesyl pyrophosphate to zearalenone, which is then reduced to α-zearalenol by a zearalenone reductase enzyme.

Toxicity

Α-Zearalenol is a potent estrogenic mycotoxin. It can bind to estrogen receptors and mimic the effects of natural estrogens, leading to hormonal imbalances and reproductive disorders in animals. The toxin can also cause immunosuppression and has been linked to various types of cancer.

Detection and Control

Methods for detecting α-zearalenol in crops and animal feed include enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and mass spectrometry. Control measures include the use of resistant crop varieties, proper storage conditions to prevent fungal growth, and the use of mycotoxin binders in animal feed.

See Also

• Zearalenone
• Fusarium
• Mycotoxin
• Estrogen