Aflatoxin B 1 induces infertility, fetal deformities, and potential therapies

Abstract Aflatoxin B 1 (AFB 1 ) is a subsidiary poisonous metabolite, archetypally spawned by Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus, which are often isolated in warm or tropical countries across the world. AFB 1 is capable of disrupting the functioning of several reproductive endocrine glands by interrupting the enzymes and their substrates that are liable for the synthesis of various hormones in both males and females. In men, AFB 1 is capable of hindering testicular development, testicular degeneration, and reduces reproductive capabilities. In women, a direct antagonistic interaction of AFB 1 with steroid hormone receptors influencing gonadal hormone production of estrogen and progesterone was responsible for AFB 1 -associated infertility. AFB 1 is potentially teratogenic and is responsible for the development of malformation in humans and animals. Soft-tissue anomalies such as internal hydrocephalus, microphthalmia, cardiac defects, augmented liver lobes, reproductive changes, immune modifications, behavioral changes and predisposition of animals and humans to neoplasm development are AFB 1 -associated anomalies. Substances such as esculin, selenium, gynandra extract, vitamins C and E, oltipraz, and CDDO-Im are potential therapies for AFB 1 . Thus, this review elucidates the pivotal pathogenic roles of AFB 1 in infertility, fetal deformities, and potential therapies because AFB 1 toxicity is a key problem globally.