Description

T2 toxin is a trichothecene mycotoxin initially produced by species of Fusarium. T2 toxin is often found in grains and grain products such as cereals and breads. T2 toxin may act as an anticoagulant at low doses, decreasing fibrinolytic and coagulant signaling pathways. In vivo, T2 toxin alters permeability of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). In the brain and spleen, T2 toxin induces oxidative stress by decreasing levels of glutathione and increasing levels of ROS and lipid peroxidation; it also decreases expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1) and increases expression of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9), TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. In vitro, T2 toxin alters steroidogenesis by inhibiting production of follicular-stimulating hormone (FSH) and progesterone and inhibiting the stimulatory effects of IFG-1.