Ochratoxin A Inhibitors

Ochratoxin A (OTA) inhibitors are substances or compounds that act to prevent, reduce, or inhibit the formation, synthesis, or activity of ochratoxin A, a harmful mycotoxin produced by certain molds. These inhibitors play a crucial role in mitigating the health risks associated with ochratoxin A contamination in various food and feed commodities.

OTA inhibitors can operate through different mechanisms, such as interfering with the biosynthetic pathway of the mycotoxin, inhibiting the enzymatic activity responsible for its production, or physically adsorbing the toxin to reduce its bioavailability. Examples of OTA inhibitors include propolis, certain antioxidants like ascorbic acid and alpha-tocopherol, enzymes like peroxidase and phenol oxidase that can degrade the mycotoxin, and various clay minerals such as bentonite and montmorillonite that can adsorb ochratoxin A. Additionally, some beneficial microorganisms like lactic acid bacteria and specific yeast strains can competitively inhibit ochratoxin A production by toxigenic molds. By utilizing these inhibitors, efforts are made to minimize the risk of ochratoxin A exposure and enhance food and feed safety, protecting human and animal health from the adverse effects of this harmful mycotoxin.