Comparative effects of aflatoxins G1 and B1 at levels within human exposure limits on mouse liver and kidney.

Abstract

ddy mice were exposed to aflatoxins B1 and G1 via their feed (4.8 ng AFG1, 0.8 ng AFB1 or both/kg body wt./day) while in utero. At six months of age, hepatorenal studies were carried out. The AFG1 caused significant accumulation of only neutral fat in the liver, a slight rise in serum triglyceride and intensified hepatorenal inflammation, necrosis and bile duct proliferation. The AFB1, caused the accumulation of both neutral fat and fatty acids in the liver, and was cytotoxic to the liver and kidney. Iron storage of the liver, hematological indices, serum total protein and albumin levels were not affected by the aflatoxins.