aflatoxin

American  

[af-luh-tok-sin] / ˌæf ləˈtɒk sɪn /

noun

1. any of various related mycotoxins produced by a species of Aspergillus, commonly A. flavus, found as a contaminant in moldy grains and meals, as in rice and peanut meal, and suspected of causing liver cancer in humans and other animals.

---

aflatoxin British  

/ ˌæfləˈtɒksɪn /

noun

1. a toxin produced by the fungus Aspergillus flavus growing on peanuts, maize, etc, causing liver disease (esp cancer) in man

---

Etymology

Origin of aflatoxin

1960–65; A(spergillus) fla(vus) (species name; aspergillus, flavo- ) + toxin

Example Sentences

"We have not been testing much for aflatoxin previously because this is the first time we’re experiencing this case of high aflatoxin, for which we are still investigating the cause."

From BBC • Aug. 21, 2024

Consumption of high levels of aflatoxin, the most dangerous mycotoxin, can cause severe toxicity or—with prolonged exposure—even liver cancer.

From National Geographic • Nov. 10, 2023

Heavy exposure to aflatoxin, a type of mycotoxin, causes liver damage, jaundice, hemorrhage and edema.

From Salon • Jul. 13, 2023

Pets with aflatoxin poisoning may have symptoms including sluggishness, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea or jaundice — a yellow tint in the eyes, gums or skin because of liver damage, the FDA has said.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 19, 2021

Now, researchers have shown that insects spur A. flavus to make aflatoxin, suggesting ways to keep it out of the world’s food supply.

From Science Magazine • Dec. 19, 2017