Abstract
Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is primarily biotransformed in the liver by cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes, which can yield either the genotoxic metabolite AFB1-8,9 epoxide that causes liver carcinogenicity or less toxic compounds. The biotransformation of AFB1 is better understood in humans, including gene expression of CYPs involved in the detoxification process. Studies on farm animals have demonstrated genes homologous to human CYPs that play similar roles in AFB1 biotransformation. This review compares the activities of the most important CYPs related to the biotransformation of AFB1 in humans, swine and domestic fowls (chickens, quail, turkeys and ducks), as well the main detoxification mechanisms in these species.
Declaration of interest
The authors declare that there are no conflicts of interest relevant to this study.
The authors would like to thank Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) for the financial support and research grants.