Characterization of clay-based enterosorbents for the prevention of aflatoxicosis.

Appropriate chemical interventions that can block, retard, or significantly diminish foodborne exposure to aflatoxins are high priorities. A practical and effective approach to the aflatoxin problem has been the dietary inclusion of a processed calcium montmorillonite clay (HSCAS). HSCAS acts as an enterosorbent that rapidly and preferentially binds aflatoxins in the gastrointestinal tract resulting in decreased aflatoxin uptake and bioavailability. In mechanistic studies, we have shown that the intact dicarbonyl system in aflatoxin is essential for optimal sorption by HSCAS. Evidence also suggests that aflatoxins react at multiple sites on HSCAS clay surfaces (especially those within the interlayer region). Due to conceivable risks associated with the dietary inclusion of nonspecific binding agents, all aflatoxin enterosorbents should be tested in sensitive animal models for efficacy, safety, and the potential for nutrient interactions.