Fusarium is one of the most prevalent fungi associated with contamination of corn and other agricultural products throughout the world.

Many different fumonisins have so far been reported, and they have been grouped into four main categories (A, B, C, and P).

The most abundant of the fumonisins is fumonisin B1 (FB1).

They can also be found in moisture-damaged buildings, and, therefore, exposure of humans to Fusarium mycotoxins including FB1 may take place.

FB1 bears a clear structural similarity to the cellular sphingolipids, and this similarity has been shown to disturb the metabolism of sphingolipids by inhibiting a key enzyme in sphingolipid biosynthesis.

FB1 is neurotoxic, hepatotoxic, and nephrotoxic in animals, and it has been classified as a possible carcinogen to humans. The cellular mechanisms behind FB1-induced toxicity include the induction of oxidative stress, apoptosis, and cytotoxicity, as well as alterations in cytokine expression.

References:

Peraica M, Radic B, Lucic A, Pavlovic M. Toxic effects of mycotoxins in humans. Bull World Health Organ. 1999;77(9):754-66. PMID: 10534900; PMCID: PMC2557730. [L]

Fumonisin B2 is a mycotoxin produced by Fusarium growing on moldy corn (maize) grain. FB2 and Fumonisin B3 (FB3) occur in lower concentrations than FB1. FB1 and FB2 are approximately equal in structure and toxicity but naturally occur in a ratio of about 3: 1 for FB1/FB2, thus has less toxicity than FB1.

Fumonisin B3 (FB3), a less commonly studied but significant mycotoxin, is an important marker in Total Tox Burden panels, reflecting potential exposure to toxins produced by Fusarium species, predominantly found in maize and its by-products. Structurally, FB3 is similar to other fumonisins like B1 and B2, but it is often present at lower concentrations in contaminated foods. Its inclusion in tox burden assessments is crucial due to its potential health implications. Although FB3's toxicity is generally considered to be lower than that of fumonisin B1, it still poses health risks, particularly hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic effects, and it may play a role in esophageal cancer and neural tube defects.

Fungitell®, an FDA cleared and CE marked diagnostic test, is used for the detection of (1→3)-β-D-Glucan, which is frequently associated with the presence of fungal pathogens. The majority of these are Candida and Aspergillus species.

Furan 2,5-dicarboxylic is a byproduct of Aspergillus and other fungal species.

Furan 2,5-dicarboxylic is a byproduct of Aspergillus and other fungal species.

Furancarbonylglycine is a metabolite produced by Aspergillus and possibly other fungal species in the GI tract.

Furancarbonylglycine is a metabolite produced by Aspergillus and possibly other fungal species in the GI tract.

A metabolite produced by Aspergillus and possibly other fungal species in the GI tract. Prescription or natural antifungals, along with high-potency, multi-strain probiotics, may reduce overgrowth.

Furancarbonylglycine is a metabolite produced by Aspergillus and possibly other fungal species in the GI tract.

A metabolite produced by Aspergillus and possibly other fungal species in the GI tract. Prescription or natural antifungals, along with high-potency, multi-strain probiotics, may reduce overgrowth.

Members of the genus Fusarium are ubiquitous fungi commonly found in soils and plants.

Fusarium proliferatum can be found on a wide host range as well as pathogenic on various agricultural crops. Fusarium proliferatum is a common pathogen infecting numerous crop plants and occuring in various climatic zones.

The Fusarium Proliferatum/Moniliforme IgG test measures IgG antibodies to specific environmental molds, indicating past or ongoing exposure. While elevated levels suggest immune system recognition of these molds, they do not diagnose an active infection, allergy, or illness. This test is most useful in evaluating possible mold-related conditions—such as hypersensitivity pneumonitis—in the context of symptoms and known exposure. It should be interpreted by a specialist, as reference ranges carry no direct disease significance.

Genus of gram-negative bacteria in the Fusobacteria phylum. Commonly found in the oral cavity, and may also be found in the intestine. Associated with inflammatory processes, as well as autoimmune conditions such as systemic sclerosis.

Autoimmune Association: Systemic sclerosis or inflammatory bowel disease

Fusobacterium in the gut microbiome is noteworthy due to its association with various gastrointestinal conditions. Its balance is influenced by factors like diet, oral health, and gut microbiota composition. Managing its levels involves dietary and oral hygiene interventions, and potentially probiotic supplementation and medical treatments, all aimed at maintaining a healthy and diverse gut microbiome.

The marker Fusobacterium species refers to a group of bacteria that are part of the normal flora in the human gut but can also act as pathogens under certain conditions. Fusobacterium species are anaerobic bacteria, meaning they thrive in environments with little to no oxygen, such as the deeper layers of the mucous membrane lining the gut. In a healthy individual, these bacteria coexist peacefully with other microorganisms and contribute to the gut's ecological balance. However, if the balance is disrupted, Fusobacterium can become opportunistic pathogens, leading to infections. The presence of these bacteria in elevated levels on a GI panel can indicate an infection or dysbiosis (an imbalance in the microbial community), which may be associated with various gastrointestinal disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease and colon cancer. Therefore, the detection of Fusobacterium species on a GI panel is crucial for diagnosing potential infections or imbalances, guiding effective treatment plans to restore gut health.