AFLATOXIN, ITS METABOLISM AND CARCINOGENESIS - A HISTORICAL REVIEW

Aflatoxin is a secondary metabolite produced by certain strains of Asp ergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. It is hepatotoxic in natu re and produces liver cancer in experimental animals. Epidemiological studies suggest its close association with human liver cancer. Literat ure is now available dealing with its toxicity, metabolism, mutagenici ty and carcinogenicity, but this literature is scattered. Therefore, a ttempt has been made to evaluate its potential health risk, especially in relation to its carcinogenicity, in a more concise manner.