Effects of repeated fumonisin B1 exposure on markers of oxidative stress in liver, kidneys, and lungs of C57BL/6 mice.

Fu monisin B1 (FB1) is a mycotoxin commonly found in maize and maize-based products. Ingestion of FB1-contaminated causes a myriad of dose- and species-dependent toxic effects to human and animal health. In the present study we evaluated the effects of FB1 (8 mg/kg, i.p. for 4 days) on body weight and oxidative stress parameters in the liver, kidney and lung of C57BL/6 male mice. No changes in the organ-to-body weight ratio, organ-to-adrenal gland weight ratio or organ-to-brain weight ratio were found. On the other hand, FB1 exposure increased NPSH levels in liver and lungs whereas decreased FRAP content in liver and kidneys. Levels of TBARS, ascorbic acid and NOx content were not altered by FB1. In summary, four days of FB1 exposure are sufficient to disrupt antioxidant defenses in liver, kidneys and lungs of C57BL/6 male mice without concomitant changes in organs weight.