patulin

Patulin is a mycotoxin and secondary metabolite produced by several species of fungi in the genera Penicillium (notably Penicillium expansum), Aspergillus, and Byssochlamys. It is classified as a polyketide and belongs to the group of toxic lactones. Patulin was originally investigated for its antibiotic properties but was found to be too toxic for therapeutic use in humans. Its mechanism of action involves covalent binding to cellular proteins—especially thiol groups—leading to inhibition of enzyme function, disruption of protein synthesis and DNA replication, oxidative stress induction, and interference with critical cellular processes[1][5][6]. Patulin contamination occurs primarily in apples and apple-derived products due to fungal growth on damaged or rotting fruit; it can also be found in other fruits such as pears and grapes[7]. Toxic effects include neurotoxicity, immunotoxicity, genotoxicity (with variable evidence), reproductive toxicity in animal studies, gastrointestinal hemorrhage (in cattle), and potential carcinogenicity[3][4][5]. The FDA has set an action limit for patulin at 50 ppb in apple juice due to these health concerns[4].

Other names

clavacinpenicidinexpansinmycoin C4-hydroxy-4H-furo[3,2-c]pyran-2(6H)-one