Experimental Induction of Tenuazonic Acid Toxicity in Mice Model

The study investigated the health risks of tenuazonic acid (TeA) from Alternaria alternata in tomatoes using a murine model. TeA was administered to mice both intra-peritoneally and orally, leading to significant health issues such as decreased feed consumption, weight changes, hair loss, spleen and liver enlargement, and organ lesions. Haematological and biochemical analyses revealed oxidative stress and abnormal enzyme levels, while histological examination showed liver damage and immune cell infiltration. The study concluded that even low concentrations of TeA could severely damage vital organs, highlighting the need for regulatory measures to control TeA levels in food products and further research on its toxicological effects.