Intracellular zinc stores protect the intestinal epithelium from Ochratoxin A toxicity.

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a harmful mycotoxin frequently contaminating foods, feeds and beverages. OTA was reported to be nephrotoxic, immunotoxic, hepatotoxic and a potential carcinogen, with yet poorly characterized mechanisms. Although intestinal cells are relatively resistant to high concentrations of OTA, interaction with other dietary factors or specific nutritional conditions may increase OTA toxicity to the intestinal mucosa.