Effect of Patulin Poisoning on TNF-α Levels in Mouse Livers

Patulin is a mycotoxin mainly produced by Penicillium expansum, widely distributed in the environment, and commonly found in spoiled fruits, especially apples. This compound exhibits multiple toxic effects, including hepatotoxic, nephrotoxic, neurotoxic, and immunosuppressive activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of patulin on the concentration of the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α in the livers of Albino Swiss mice following intoxication with various doses of the toxin. The animals were divided into six groups and administered patulin intraperitoneally in both acute and chronic doses. Analysis of TNF-α levels showed a significant increase in this cytokine in groups receiving a single dose of 0.5 LD50 and 0.2 LD50 of patulin. No significant changes were observed after chronic administration of a 0.1 LD50 dose. The results suggest that patulin toxicity may be associated with an enhanced inflammatory response in the liver, depending on the magnitude and nature of the dose.