Paspalitrem B is a tremorgenic mycotoxin that has been found in fungi of the genera Penicillium and Aspergillus. It may be found in contaminated cereal crops such as oats, barley, millet, corn and rice. Tremorgenic mycotoxins affect central nervous system activity and have been implicated in a number of neurologic diseases of cattle collectively known as "staggers syndromes". (2)
belongs to the class of organic compounds known as naphthopyrans. Naphthopyrans are compounds containing a pyran ring fused to a naphthalene moiety. Furan is a 6 membered-ring non-aromatic ring with five carbon and one oxygen atoms. Naphthalene is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon made up of two fused benzene rings.
Oral, dermal, inhalation, and parenteral (contaminated drugs). (4)
Mechanism of Toxicity
Tremorgenic mycotoxins exert their toxic effects by interfering with neurotransmitter release, possibly by causing degeneration of nerve terminals. They are thought to inhibit gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, both pre- and postsynaptic, as well as inhibit transmitter breakdown at the GABA-T receptors. This would initially increase neurotransmitter levels, potentiating the GABA-induced chloride current, then lead to decreased levels of neurotransmitter in the synapse. In addition, paspalitrem B inhibits presynaptic high-conductance Ca+2 activated maxi-K+ channels in the smooth muscle. (2, 3)
No indication of carcinogenicity to humans (not listed by IARC).
Uses/Sources
Paspalitrem B is a tremorgenic mycotoxin that has been found in fungi of the genera Penicillium and Aspergillus. It may be found in contaminated cereal crops such as oats, barley, millet, corn and rice. (2)
Minimum Risk Level
Not Available
Health Effects
Tremorgenic mycotoxins affect central nervous system activity. They cause a neurological disease of cattle known as "staggers syndrome". (2)
Symptoms
Tremorgenic mycotoxins affect central nervous system activity, inducing neurologic symptoms including mental confusion, paralysis, tremors, seizures, and death. They cause a neurological disease of cattle known as "staggers syndrome", which is characterized by muscle tremors, hyperexcitability, convulsions and ataxia. (2)
Treatment
To control severe tremors caused by tremorgenic mycotoxins, methocarbamol should be administered. Generalized seizures may be treated with diazepam followed by methocarbamol or a barbiturate such as pentobarbital sodium. Gastric lavage should be performed and activated charcoal administered to limit further absorption of toxins. (1)
