Mycotoxins – Biochemical Approach

The fungi are a unique group of organisms, different from all others in their behaviour and cellular organization. The metabolites of fungi can be grouped into two broad categories: (a) primary metabolites which are end-products of common metabolic pathways, and (b) secondary metabolites which are a diverse range of compounds formed by specific pathways of particular organisms.
The mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by fungi from different precursors and pathways, but grouped together on the basis of their toxicity to humans or higher animals.
Mycotoxins discovered in the early 1960s, are natural contaminants of food and animal feed.
Mycotoxins have specific chemical characteristics that vary in accordance with the fungi synthesize, environmental conditions and type of tissue parasitized. They vary, also on the degree of toxicity and the toxic effects to humans and animals.
This book presents a number of mycotoxins of great importance for animal and human health.
Also emphasizing mycotoxins with pharmaceutical relevance that are beneficial to humans and animals.