Toxigenic potential of Alternaria species from cereals

Abstract

Toxigenic potential of A. alternata and A. tenuissima isolates on durum wheat grains of cultivar Dušan (Triticum durum L.) and common wheat cultivar Barbee (T. vulgare L.) were tested under laboratory conditions. A. alternata and A. tenuissima isolates were used for inoculate three different wheat genotype/fungal isolates combination. Alternaria toxins alternariol (AOH), alternariol monomethyl ether (AME), tentoxin (TEN), tenuazonic acid (TeA) and altenuen (ALT) were determined by LC-MS/MS. Grains of cultivar Barbee proved to be the best substrate for toxin production. Among toxins, AOH, AME and TeA were present in highest concentration. The results underline the possibility of fungal infection and mycotoxin production by Alternaria species both in field and storage conditions. Further research is needed for official regulation of acceptable levels of Alternaria mycotoxins in food and feed.