Genotoxicity analysis and identification of citrinin based on a systematic literature search

Citrinin （CIT） is a mycotoxin produced by several species of the genera Aspergillus， Penicillium， and Monascus， and it often contaminates grains and grain products. CIT shows clear nephrotoxicity， while its carcinogenicity evidence is insufficient. Considering the ability of genotoxicity tests to screen chemicals for potential carcinogenicity， the genotoxicity of CIT was reviewed from the perspective of three genetic endpoints， including genetic mutation， chromosomal aberrations， and DNA damage. CIT is a genotoxic substance that induces chromosomal aberrations. The mechanism may be related to its influence on tubulin polymerization and spindle formation during cellular mitosis， thereby causing cell cycle blocking. This study provides basic data for follow-up risk assessments of CIT.