Β-Zearalenol

Β-Zearalenol is a mycotoxin produced by several species of Fusarium, a genus of fungi. It is a non-steroidal estrogen that can be found in several cereal crops, including corn, wheat, and barley. Β-Zearalenol is one of the derivatives of Zearalenone, a potent estrogenic metabolite.

Structure and Synthesis

Β-Zearalenol is a resorcylic acid lactone that is structurally similar to Zearalenone. It is synthesized by the fungus Fusarium through a complex biosynthetic pathway involving several enzymatic steps. The final step in the synthesis of Β-Zearalenol is the reduction of Zearalenone by a ketoreductase enzyme.

Occurrence and Exposure

Β-Zearalenol is commonly found in cereal crops that have been infected by Fusarium fungi. The level of contamination can vary greatly depending on the environmental conditions, the susceptibility of the crop, and the presence of the fungus. Humans and animals can be exposed to Β-Zearalenol through the consumption of contaminated food or feed.

Health Effects

Due to its estrogenic properties, Β-Zearalenol can cause several health effects in both humans and animals. In animals, it can cause reproductive disorders, such as reduced fertility and abnormal sexual development. In humans, the health effects of Β-Zearalenol are not well understood, but it is suspected to be an endocrine disruptor.

Detection and Control

Several methods have been developed for the detection of Β-Zearalenol in food and feed, including chromatography, immunoassay, and mass spectrometry. Control of Β-Zearalenol contamination involves good agricultural practices, such as crop rotation and the use of resistant varieties, as well as proper storage conditions to prevent fungal growth.

See Also

• Mycotoxin
• Fusarium
• Zearalenone
• Endocrine disruptor

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