Signal transduction pathway activation in RAW 264.7 murine macrophages exposed to Eurotium amstelodami purified toxins and β (1,3) D-glucan

Abstract

Mold growth in buildings is known to be associated with both allergenic and non allergenic effects on population health. The mechanisms by which this process occurs, however, are not well understood. The objectives of this study are as follows: 1) Identify which transduction pathways are activated in RAW 264.7 cells following mycotoxin and glucan exposure, 2) Determine if there is time- and/or dose- dependency, and 3) Identify any interactions between mycotoxin and glucan. Molecular techniques will be implemented to accomplish these objectives. Results have identified which transduction pathways are activated following mycotoxin and glucan exposure. Generally, these pathways are up-regulated at 1h post exposure (PE) to Neoechinulin A and B. However, for glucan exposed AMs, the trend seems to be down-regulation after 30m and 1h PE and up-regulation after 2h PE. Additionally, this study provides support for both synergistic and antagonistic interactions between Neoechinulin A and glucan.