Comparative biotransformation of aflatoxin B1 in swine, domestic fowls, and humans

Aflatoxin B-1 (AFB(1)) is primarily biotransformed in the liver by cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes, which can yield either the genotoxic metabolite AFB(1)-8,9 epoxide that causes liver carcinogenicity or less toxic compounds. The biotransformation of AFB(1) is better understood in humans, including gene expression of CYPs involved in the detoxification process. Studies on farm animals have demonstrated genes homologous to human CYPs that play similar roles in AFB(1) biotransformation. This review compares the activities of the most important CYPs related to the biotransformation of AFB(1) in humans, swine and domestic fowls (chickens, quail, turkeys and ducks), as well the main detoxification mechanisms in these species.