Ochratoxin
Ochratoxin is a persister mycotoxin. It binds tightly to a blood protein called albumin, acting like a mobile reserve, resulting in an extended time in the blood. The kidneys are the primary route of excretion, which sustain significant damage in the process.
Ochratoxin is one of the most prevalent mycotoxins in water-damaged buildings and food. It’s been implicated in numerous health conditions, and is classified as a class 2B, possible human carcinogen by the WHO International Agency for Research on Cancer.
Ochratoxin reduces immune function by activating and destroying immune cells called neutrophils.
Kidneys. Reduces glomerular function via oxidative stress, direct genotoxic alterations, epigenetic influences. The tubular insterstitium takes the brunt of the bioaccumulation.
Linked to IgA nephropathy, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, chronic interstitial nephropathy, and renal cancers. Covalently binds to DNA causing mutations and subsequent formation of malignant tumors.
Acute renal failure has been demonstrated from severe inhalational exposure. Displacement from albumin with bioflavonoids becomes a key focus of treatment.
Liver. Transport polypeptides result in active cellular uptake in the liver. Significantly reduces cellular glutathione levels by increasing reactive oxygen species concentration, while reducing superoxide dismutase.
Biotransformed by both phase I and phase II enzymes. The phase I-type reactions are related to the action of the CYP450 enzyme family. Among phase II reactions are sulfate, glucuronide, hexose/pentose, and glutathione conjugations.
Mitochondria. Inhibits energy production by inducing a strong negative effect on cellular glutathione and ATP production, resulting in an overall decrease in protein synthesis and myocardial injury.
Birth Defects. Ochratoxin crosses the placenta where it concentrates, leading to higher levels in the placenta, as well as two-fold higher levels in the fetus’s blood than that of the mother. Studies have correlated Ochratoxin exposure to birth defects and the male prevalence of autism.
MOLD SOURCES
Aspergillus ochraceus, A. niger
Penicillium verrucosum, P. nordicum, P. chrysogenum
SIGNS
Low albumin
Reduced Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)
SYMPTOMS
Fatigue
Brain fog
Headache, migraine
Low appetite
Nausea
Chemical sensitivity
Itchiness
High urine output, or may progress to very low urine output
Edema
High blood pressure
Brain. Neurotoxic effects, especially in males. Bioaccumulation occurs in the brain via active cellular uptake by transport polypeptides.
Color Guard (Alight Health Formulas) - 2 caps twice daily.
Liposomal Melatonin (Quicksilver Scientific) - 1 pump in the evening.
Liposomal Glutathione (Alight Health Formulas) - 2 pumps twice daily. MycoDetox (Alight Health Formulas) - 2 caps twice daily.
Chest pain
Muscle weakness and/or cramps
Exercise intolerance
Frequent infections
