Teratogenic Effects of Ochratoxin A and Aflatoxin B1 Alone and in Combination on Post-Implantation Rat Embryos in Culture

Abstract

Objective: The present study was performed to determine effects of simultaneous exposure of ochratoxin A (OTA) and aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) on post-implantation rat embryos, in presence and absence of hepatic S9 mix. Materials and Methods: The embryos were explanted from pregnant Wistar rats on day 10 of gestation and cultured for 24 hours, in medium M-199 containing rat serum, OTA (0.004, 0.008 µg/ml culture), AFB1 (0.5, 1.0 µg/ml culture) and combination of OTA+AFB1 (0.004+1.0 µg/ml culture). Results: Both OTA and AFB1 interfered with the neural tube development. However, when combined, the effects on the neural tube were reduced but heart defects were observed. The histopathological observations of the embryos confirmed these observations and revealed degenerative changes and vacuolation in heart muscle. Discussion: The results of the present study suggested that when used simultaneously, the effects caused by OTA were antagonized by AFB1. Histopathological examination of the embryos revealed that the defects in the neural development were less severe in embryos exposed to both agents together. The defects in heart muscle were seen when the two mycotoxins were used together but not when used alone.