Mode of action and human health aspects of aflatoxin carcinogenesis.
The toxicity and carcinogenicity of the aflatoxins have been studied extensively in the rat. In this species these compounds are recognized as some of the most active hepatocarcinogens. The early lesions induced by the aflatoxins have been studied in an attempt to recognize the developing malignant neoplasm prior to the presence of metastasis. The relationship of focal hyperplasia to neoplasia will be discussed in comparison with other recognized carcinogens. The pattern of human hepatic neoplasia will be compared with that of neoplasia induced by the aflatoxins in order to add weight to the "mycotoxin hypothesis" of the aetiology of hepatic neoplasia. The role of dietary modification will also be discussed.
D000348:Aflatoxins / Q000633:toxicity*; D000818:Animals; D002273:Carcinogens; D004247:DNA / Q000096:biosynthesis; D006801:Humans; D006965:Hyperplasia; D008099:Liver / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology*; D008113:Liver Neoplasms / Q000139:chemically induced; D008297:Male; D012313:RNA / Q000096:biosynthesis; D051381:Rats
D000348:Aflatoxins; D002273:Carcinogens; D012313:RNA; D004247:DNA