Detection of Mycotoxigenic Fungi and Residual Mycotoxins in Cannabis Buds Following Gamma Irradiation.

ABSTRACT: Cannabis plants are susceptible to microbial contamination, including fungi capable of producing harmful mycotoxins. The presence of these toxins in cannabis products poses serious health risks, especially when used for medical purposes in immunocompromised people. This study evaluated the presence of fungi and mycotoxins in dried cannabis buds following gamma irradiation, using culture-based techniques, PCR/qPCR, and ELISA. Irradiation significantly reduced fungal and bacterial loads, eliminating culturable bacteria but did not achieve complete sterilization. Viable spores of toxigenic fungal genera, such as Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Fusarium, persisted. Sequencing of ITS amplicons revealed dominant mycotoxigenic fungi in non-irradiated (NR), irradiated (IR) and l

SUBMITTER: Rani M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12656284 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature