Human aflatoxin B1 metabolism: an investigation of the importance of aflatoxin Q1 as a metabolite of hepatic post-mitochondrial fraction.

The metabolism of aflatoxin B1 by the post-mitochondrial fraction of human autopsy or biopsy liver and monkey necropsy liver was investigated. Aflatoxin Q1, a hydroxy metabolite of B1, was produced by 18 of 22 human liver samples and by 5 of 7 species of non-human primates investigated. Human specimens from both sexes, ages 20-80 years, with a variety of hepatic histological and historical influences produced this metabolite.

Acetylcholinesterase molecular forms in rat heart.

A comparison of the molecular forms of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in adult rat atria and ventricles was undertaken. The major forms present in both the atria and ventricles were globular 4S (G1) and 10S (G4) and asymmetric 16S (A12) with minor contributions from 6S (G2) and 12S (A8). Although the total specific AChE activity was higher in atrial samples, no differences in the proportions of the major AChE forms between the atrial and ventricular samples were seen.

The direct mutagenicity of aflatoxin B1 and metabolites to Salmonella typhimurium: structure mutagenicity relationships and mechanisms of action.

The non-microsomal mutagenesis of a series of aflatoxins in Salmonella typhimurium TA100 and TA98 was evaluated. Aflatoxin B1 had the highest direct or non-microsomal potency. However, the order of direct mutagenic activity as compared to indirect or microsomal activity was as follows; aflatoxin Q1 much greater than G1 greater than B1 greater than aflatoxicol.