Cytotoxicity of Fusarium T-2 in cultured Madin-Darby bovine kidney (MDBK) and primary fetal bovine kidney (PFBK) cells.

Cytotoxicity of Fusarium T-2 toxin was evaluated in cultured Madin-Darby bovine kidney (MDBK) and primary fetal bovine kidney (PFBK) cells. The criteria for evaluation included number of adherent cells, phase contrast microscopy, and the scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The primary cells were more sensitive to the toxic effects of T-2 toxin than MDBK cultures.Cytotoxicity was observed when the cultures were exposed to the toxin for only 1 hour and then incubated with untreated media. Cell multiplication was decreased in both systems in 72 hour cultures. Scanning electron microscopy indicated loss of inter-cell contact and marked alterations in cell shape. Transmission electron microscopy indicated extensive proliferation of lysosomal bodies and proliferation of endoplasmic reticulum. The membrane system and mitochondria were not affected. Results indicated the kidney cells are highly sensitive to the toxic effects of T-2 toxin.