Mycotoxin: Sterigmatocystin. Sterigmatocystin is a potentially carcinogenic and hepatotoxic mycotoxin, similar to Aflatoxins but not as toxic. Sterigmatocystin is a precursor in the biosynthesis of Aflatoxins. It has been detected in many damp, mold-contaminated building materials and carpet dust from moldy indoor environments.
Health Effects: Sterigmatocystin is classified as a class 2B carcinogen (possibly carcinogenic to humans). It has been demonstrated to cause pulmonary adenocarcinomas in mice and liver tumors in rats. It is primarily toxic to the liver and kidneys.
A. versicolor is one of the most frequently found molds in water-damaged buildings. Spores of A. Versicolor are detected and quantified in the ERMI (Environmental Relative Moldiness Index) test by Real Time PCR. A. versicolor is known to produce a mycotoxin called sterigmatocystin.
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