Zearalanone

Zearalanone (also known as ZEN, ZEA or F-2 mycotoxin) is a non-steroidal estrogenic mycotoxin produced by several species of Fusarium fungi, including Fusarium graminearum, Fusarium culmorum, Fusarium equiseti, and Fusarium crookwellense. It is one of the most common mycotoxins found in grains and other agricultural products, and can cause a variety of health problems in both humans and animals.

Structure and Synthesis

Zearalanone is a resorcylic acid lactone, and its structure is similar to that of the natural estrogen estradiol. It is synthesized by the fungus through a series of enzymatic reactions, starting with the conversion of mevalonic acid to farnesyl pyrophosphate, and ending with the cyclization of zearalenone acid to form the lactone ring.

Occurrence and Exposure

Zearalanone is commonly found in a variety of grains, including corn, wheat, barley, and oats, as well as in other agricultural products such as hay and silage. Humans can be exposed to zearalanone through the consumption of contaminated food or feed, and animals can be exposed through the consumption of contaminated feed or by inhaling spores from contaminated hay or silage.

Health Effects

In humans, exposure to zearalanone can cause a variety of health problems, including reproductive disorders, immune system suppression, and liver damage. In animals, exposure can cause reproductive disorders, reduced growth, and decreased feed efficiency.

Detection and Control

Several methods are available for the detection of zearalanone in food and feed, including ELISA tests, HPLC analysis, and LC-MS/MS analysis. Control of zearalanone contamination can be achieved through good agricultural practices, such as crop rotation and the use of resistant varieties, as well as through the use of fungicides and other chemical treatments.

See Also

• Mycotoxin
• Fusarium
• Estrogen
• Food safety

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