OCHRATOXIN A

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a mycotoxin produced by A. ochraceus, A. carbonarius, and P. verrucosum that is commonly found as a food contaminant. The kidney is the main target organ for OTA toxicity where it has been reported to trigger nephropathy and induce renal adenomas. Topical OTA exposure (80 μg/mouse) also has skin tumor initiating properties which have been linked to oxidative stress, alterations in Nrf2 and MAPK signaling, and DNA damage. A Tolerable Weekly Intake of 100 ng/kg body weight per day has been set by the joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives.