Chemical Profiling and Toxicology Assessment of Talaromyces columbinus in Stored Grains of Karbala

Abstract

The objective of the investigation is to scrutinize the domain of talaromyces fungi distribution in warehoused grains solely, with the aim of verifying the existence of mycotoxins typified by aflatoxins using chemical Approaches. This is due to the grave hazard they pose once they infiltrate the market and are consumed by the end user, whether it be an individual or an animal. The results of the field assessment of grains, conducted in Karbala Governorate, Iraq, revealed the existence of talaromyces fungi in varying percentages across the different types of grains examined. This revelation affirms the prevalence of talaromyces in the local markets, thereby confirming its reach to the end consumer. Furthermore, owing to the majority of the identified species being aflatoxin-laden, this fungus presents a serious peril to consumers, inducing afflictions including but not limited to cancer, liver damage, and kidney damage, amongst others.