Toxic effects of zearalenone on gametogenesis and embryonic development: A molecular point of review

Zearalenone is commonly generated from moldy cereal grain, which is toxic to the development of gametogenesis and embryo in human and animals. The zearalenone-induced reproductive damage is mainly attributed to four mechanisms. Firstly, zearalenone as an oestrogen-like compound binds to estrogen receptor and causes damage to germ cells and testicular structure. Secondly, zearalenone disrupts the blood-testis barrier, and causes the damage to germ cells. Thirdly, zearalenone elevates oxidative stress, which increases the production of lipid peroxides, and results in the damage to the antioxidant defense system. Fourth, zearalenone increases DNA damage and promotes cells apoptosis. In addition, Zearalenone induces inflammatory reactions and leads to the disorders of reproductive hormones. In this study, we systematically introduced the toxic effects of zearalenone on gametogenesis and embryonic development in animals, and focused on the molecular pathways, which providing a basis for further prevention of zearalenone-induced injury.