Description
Citrinin is a mycotoxin initially produced by Penicillum, Aspergillus, and Monascus. Citrinin exhibits cytotoxic, cardiotoxic, nephrotoxic, and pro-oxidative activities. In leydig cells, citrinin inhibits testosterone production and induces caspase-mediated apoptosis. In embryos, citrinin alters heart morphology, causing malformations, edema, and red cell accumulation. Additionally, citrinin increases membrane permeability in mitochondria, increasing generation of ROS and superoxide anions.