Low concentrations of the food contaminant Deoxynivalenol trigger apoptosis and impair GnRH-induced LH secretion in pituitary gonadotrope-like cells.

The mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON) is one of the most frequently occurring food contaminants. Nearly all individuals are exposed to DON, due to it widespread presence in grains and grain-based products. Chronic DON poisoning is associated with growth retardation, immunotoxicity as well as impaired reproduction and fetal development.