Decreased resistance to mycobacterial infection in mice fed a trichothecene compound (T-2 toxin).

The effect of T-2 toxin, a trichothecene compound, on bacterial infection was examined in mice infected intravenously with mycobacteria. T-2 toxin dissolved in olive oil was given orally in a dose of 0.1 mg, six to 12 times, at various stages of infection. The resistance-decreasing effect of the toxin was judged by two different criteria, the mouse survival period and the fate of tissue viable counts. This effect was accompanied by a decreased spleen weight. T-2 toxin was found to be a more potent immunosuppressing agent in this model than 5 mg of cortisone given intraperitoneally according to a similar schedule. In view of these observations, the potential importance of this mycotoxin was considered in relation to food hygiene.