The alterations caused by fumonisins in cellular metabolism have significant consequences in various tissues. For example, in the intestinal epithelium, inhibition of cell division and growth affects the turnover of epithelial cells, while induced apoptosis and weakening of tight junctions compromise the intestinal barrier, increasing permeability (leaky gut).
Junior Product Manager – Toxinbinder
MIAVIT GmbH
Despite advances in monitoring and mitigating mycotoxins, their presence in animal production remains a critical challenge due to their diversity and the impact of climate change, which predisposes higher concentrations of mycotoxins in feed and demands increasingly stringent and, above all, flexible control measures against these fungal-derived metabolites.
Among mycotoxins, fumonisins, produced by Fusarium species, stand out due to their high global incidence, particularly in regions with warm and humid conditions that favor their development. Their impact on animal health and productivity is often underestimated in many production systems due to late detection and subclinical effects. Nevertheless, fumonisins affect key zootechnical parameters such as daily weight gain and conversion efficiency, and also cause immunosuppression that reduces resistance to diseases, leading to significant economic losses for producers.
From a physiological perspective, fumonisins inhibit the enzyme ceramide synthase, which is essential for the proper metabolism of sphingolipids such as ceramide, sphingomyelin and glycosphingolipids. These molecules play critical roles in cellular biology, from membrane structure to signaling and regulation of vital functions. Inhibiting this enzyme leads to the excessive accumulation of sphinganine and sphingosine (Sa:So) in the cytoplasm, two molecules that, at high concentrations, are toxic to the body.
This metabolic dysfunction disrupts signaling pathways at the cell membrane level, directly affecting cell differentiation and growth, as well as immune system function, since rapid cellular signaling is necessary to deal with infections or vaccines. Additionally, it predisposes to mitochondrial membrane dysfunction, resulting in overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), inducing oxidative stress, damaging cellular structures, and activating pro-inflammatory pathways that ultimately compromise cellular function and trigger apoptosis.
The alterations caused by fumonisins in cellular metabolism have significant consequences in various tissues. For example, in the intestinal epithelium, inhibition of cell division and growth affects the turnover of epithelial cells, while induced apoptosis and weakening of tight junctions compromise the intestinal barrier, increasing permeability (leaky gut). This condition facilitates the entry of bacteria, toxins, and endotoxins into the bloodstream, triggering systemic inflammation. In response to epithelial damage, goblet cells secrete excess mucin as a protective mechanism; however, over time, this leads to their destruction, leaving the intestine even more vulnerable to external aggressions. Together, these processes result in a considerable impact on intestinal homeostasis and overall organism health.
Due to variability in mycotoxin levels between grain batches or different grain suppliers, as well as delays in analytical results, traditional powdered products incorporated into feed limit the effectiveness of these strategies as a quick response. By the time contamination is detected, physiological damage may already be well established, negatively impacting animal performance. This highlights the need for more flexible solutions that can intervene rapidly when contamination occurs.
An innovative alternative to traditional methods is MiaBond Drink® from MIAVIT GmbH, a water-soluble product that uses an enzymatic inactivation approach to neutralize fumonisins in real-time, allowing precise dosing and a rapid response without the need to reformulate diets. MiaBond Drink® also strengthens immune function, supports intestinal integrity, and improves the animals’ energy and water efficiency, promoting faster recovery and more stable productive performance.
The introduction of solutions like MiaBond Drink®offers effective control of fumonisins, setting a new standard in mycotoxin risk management in modern animal production. Its ability to quickly neutralize fumonisins, while providing additional physiological benefits, makes it a key tool for improving food safety and maximizing profitability in livestock farming.
References available upon request.
About Mariano Gomory
Mariano Gomory is an Agricultural Engineer graduated from the University of Buenos Aires (UBA), where he also served as a teaching assistant in the Beef Cattle Production department. Specializing in animal nutrition, he has gained experience in various technical and commercial roles, particularly in advising on additives and functional ingredients for all animal species. He is currently working as a Junior Product Manager Toxinbinder at MIAVIT GmbH, where he continues to apply his expertise in animal nutrition while seeking innovative solutions for the industry.
