ASU targets aflatoxin in corn with x-rays

By Scout Nelson

Researchers from Arizona State University, in collaboration with global partners, have pioneered a sterilization method using X-ray irradiation to mitigate the growth of Aspergillus flavus in corn. This fungus is notorious for producing aflatoxin B1, a potent carcinogen that poses significant health and economic challenges worldwide.

The newly developed method effectively stops the fungus from spreading and producing more aflatoxins, making it safer for laboratories to explore further remediation techniques.

"We have known about aflatoxin since the 1960s, yet it is still a pervasive problem," noted Hannah Glesener, the study's lead author. She expressed optimism about the impact of X-ray irradiation on addressing aflatoxin-related challenges.

Aflatoxins are widespread in crops like corn, cottonseed, and nuts, especially in warm, humid climates. They can cause severe health issues such as liver damage and increased cancer risk, particularly liver cancer. The World Health Organization links a significant percentage of global liver cancer cases to aflatoxin exposure.

This innovation is part of a broader effort by Arizona State University to develop cost-effective solutions to reduce aflatoxin risks, particularly for disadvantaged communities globally.

The research team is also examining household cooking methods and the potential role of the human gut microbiome in detoxifying foods before they enter the bloodstream, furthering their commitment to food safety and public health.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-dszc