Histomorphological assessment of T-2 toxin, ochratoxin A, and aflatoxin B1-induced renal damage in a rat model

Fungal toxins are a prevalent cause of food contamination and can induce pathological changes in various organs of both humans and animals. This study aimed to investigate the histomorphological changes and immune response in rat kidneys exposed to aflatoxin B1, ochratoxin A, and T-2 toxin. Methods. A total of 44 albino rats were used, divided into four groups: three groups receiving different doses of toxins (24 mg/kg of aflatoxin B1, 64 mg/kg of ochratoxin A, and 25 mg/kg of T-2 toxin) for 20 days. Kidney samples were stained with hematoxylin-eosin, and picrofuchsin along with the Giemsa and May-Grünwald solutions. Results. Histopathological analysis revealed specific changes, including vacuolization, necrosis with hemorrhagic foci, pyknosis, and inflammation in the renal tissue. A significant increase in mast cells and degenerative changes in renal tubular epithelial cells were also observed. Conclusions. These findings suggest that ochratoxin A and aflatoxin B1 are potent nephrotoxins, causing severe damage to renal epithelial cells and their nuclei, while the T-2 toxin had a relatively less pronounced effect. This study highlights the detrimental effects of mycotoxins on kidney tissue, underscoring the need for further research on their prevention and mitigation to ensure food safety.