mycotoxin

[mahy-koh-tok-sin]

noun

Pathology.

1. a toxin produced by a fungus.

mycotoxin

/ ˌmaɪkəˈtɒksɪn /

noun

1. any of various toxic substances produced by fungi some of which may affect food and others of which are alleged to have been used in warfare See also aflatoxin yellow rain

Other Word Forms

• mycotoxology noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of mycotoxin¹

First recorded in 1960–65; myco- + toxin

Example Sentences

They also found it didn't produce mycotoxins, the potentially deadly substances associated with some fungi.

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For instance, Yu says, Penicillium growth on apples and Aspergillus growth on grapes and coffee produce mycotoxins that, even from acute exposures, can cause poisoning or kidney damage.

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Fusarium mycotoxins, a prevalent class of fungal contaminants in agricultural commodities that can result in vomiting, are not currently regulated.

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“The only known way to biodegrade Styrofoam is in the gut of a mealworm,” says Emery, adding that worms can digest and eliminate harmful mycotoxins and process all kinds of waste.

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But one safety concern is the contamination risk from mycotoxins and bacteria related to poor hygiene.

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