Mycotoxigenicity of Territrem B: Histopathological Investigations of Chick Ingesting Aspergillus terreus Infested Feed

S. Kiran, M. Surekha, S.M. Reddy and G. Benarjee

Background and Objective: Territrem B, tremorgenic mycotoxin elaborated by A. terreus is neurotoxic and cause a variety of neurological disorders. Therefore, it was aimed to analyze histopathological changes in some of the vital organs of chicks consumed territrem B through the feed. Materials and Methods: A set of 5 days old checks were given measured quantity. Aspergillus terreus infested feed for 6 weeks. At the end of 2, 4 and 6 weeks a batch of chicks was sacrificed and pathological symptoms were examined by microtome sectioning of different vital organs. Results: There was a marked loss of body weight in chicks during 6 weeks of their growth receiving A. terreus infested feed. Intoxication was also observed by reduced emotive behaviour. On grass postmortem examination of liver and kidney revealed significant pathological changes. Consumption of A. terreus infested feed caused degeneration of nephrons and necrosis of renal tubular epithelium resulting in nephrotoxicity. It was also hepatotoxic as it caused necrosis of hepatocytes and dilation of bile ducts resulting in biliary hyperplasia. Conclusion: From the present investigations it is clear that territrem B is neurotoxic and causes malfunctioning of the liver and heart. The present study revealed that importance of providing healthy feed to poults and prevents health hazards of primary and secondary exposure of territrem B to livestock and man.

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