Gliotoxin
Also known as: GT
Overview
An epipolythiodioxopiperazine mycotoxin produced by Aspergillus fumigatus — the primary mold responsible for invasive aspergillosis. Gliotoxin is a potent immunosuppressant that directly targets PBMCs, inducing apoptosis in T-cells and macrophages. Its detection in PBMCs is a highly specific indicator of systemic Aspergillus exposure, whether from inhalation in water-damaged environments or from invasive infection.
Primary Sources
Inhalation in water-damaged buildings with Aspergillus fumigatus growth; damp insulation, HVAC systems, and compost; a key biomarker in immunocompromised patients with invasive aspergillosis.
Health Effects
Direct PBMC apoptosis, T-cell and macrophage immunosuppression, facilitation of invasive fungal infection, chronic immune dysregulation, fatigue, and respiratory inflammation.
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.