mycotoxin

American  

[mahy-koh-tok-sin] / ˌmaɪ koʊˈtɒk sɪn /

noun

Pathology.

1. a toxin produced by a fungus.

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mycotoxin British  

/ 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

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Other Word Forms

• mycotoxology noun

Etymology

Origin of mycotoxin

First recorded in 1960–65; myco- + toxin

Example Sentences

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

Farmers use many techniques to minimize fungal growth and remove moldy grain and the government keeps a close eye on mycotoxin levels during crop production and storage.

From Salon • Mar. 8, 2023

The oldest known case of mycotoxin poisoning is recorded as a disease called ergotism.

From Salon • Mar. 8, 2023

In Belgium, however, toxicologists who examined the blood, urine and stools of two Iranian soldiers treated in Vienna found evidence of two poisons, mycotoxin and mustard gas.

From Time Magazine Archive