Low-Dose Deoxynivalenol Induces Subclinical Multi-Organ Toxicity in Weaned Piglets.

ABSTRACT: Deoxynivalenol (DON) is a common mycotoxin in cereal crops such as corn, wheat, and their processed products. It can cause feed refusal and growth retardation in piglets. This study systematically evaluated the effects of dietary exposure to purified DON at low doses of 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 mg/kg on growth performance, blood biochemistry, antioxidant capacity, immune function, intestinal health, and reproductive development in female weaned piglets over a 42-day period. Although dietary exposure to 0.25-2.0 mg/kg of DON did not significantly affect growth performance, it induced subclinical multi-organ toxicity. Notably, decreased platelet count (PLT) at 0.25-2.0 mg/kg and increased serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity at 2.0 mg/kg were observed. DON exposure also impaired anti

SUBMITTER: Liu Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12945029 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature