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Appl Environ Microbiol. 1974 November; 28(5): 763-767
Copyright © 1974 American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

Aspergillus flavus Infection and Aflatoxin Production in Corn: Influence of Trace Elements

Northern Regional Research Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Peoria, Illinois 61604

ABSTRACT

Distribution of trace element levels in corn germ fractions from kernels naturally infected with Aspergillus flavus and from kernels free of the fungus demonstrated an association between the presence of A. flavus and higher levels of metals. A. flavus production of aflatoxin on various autoclaved corn media showed that ground, whole corn was an excellent substrate; similar high levels of toxin were observed on full-fat corn germ but endosperm and defatted corn germ supported reduced yields. The influence of trace elements and their availability in defatted corn germ to A. flavus-mediated aflatoxin biosynthesis were measured. Enrichment of the substrate with 5 to 10 µg of manganese, copper, cadmium, or chromium per g of germ increased toxin yields. Addition of lead or zinc (50 to 250 µg/g) also enhanced toxin accumulation. Aflatoxin elaboration was reduced by the addition of 25 µg of cadmium per g or 500 µg of copper per g of germ.