Ochratoxin A
Also known as: OTA
Overview
A nephrotoxic mycotoxin produced by Aspergillus ochraceus and Penicillium verrucosum. OTA is among the most clinically significant mycotoxins in water-damaged building (WDB) assessments — it is readily aerosolized on mold spores and inhaled, leading to systemic absorption and PBMC accumulation. It is a key biomarker in Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) and mold-related illness.
Primary Sources
Inhalation in water-damaged and damp indoor environments (WDB); contaminated cereals, coffee, wine, dried fruits, grape juice; indoor air from buildings with Aspergillus or Penicillium mold growth.
Health Effects
Nephrotoxicity, immunosuppression, neurological symptoms (brain fog, memory loss), fatigue, possible carcinogenicity (IARC Group 2B), CIRS, mold illness syndrome.
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.