MycotoxinHRMS (LC or GC)
Aflatoxin B1
Also known as: AFB1
Overview
The most potent naturally occurring carcinogen known. Produced by Aspergillus molds on grains and nuts. Aflatoxin B1 is readily taken up by immune cells and causes significant PBMC dysfunction.
Primary Sources
Contaminated corn, peanuts, tree nuts, cottonseed, and animal feed.
Health Effects
Hepatocellular carcinoma (Group 1 carcinogen), immune suppression, growth impairment in children, acute aflatoxicosis.
Detection Method
This toxin is detected and quantified using HRMS (LC or GC) analysis of isolated PBMCs. The intracellular accumulation of this compound in lymphocytes and monocytes provides a more accurate reflection of chronic systemic burden than conventional serum or urine testing.