"Biochemical Interplay Between Gut Microbiota, Nutritional Modulators, and Mycotoxin Detoxification: A Triadic Framework for Foodborne Toxicity Mitigation"

Abstract

Introduction: Mycotoxins, toxic secondary metabolites produced by fungi such as Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Penicillium, are prevalent contaminants in global food systems. Their impact is compounded by nutritional deficiencies and gut microbiota disruptions, especially in vulnerable populations. Emerging research indicates a dynamic interplay among dietary nutrients, gut microbial composition, and mycotoxin detoxification pathways. This review explores the biochemical triad formed by gut microbiota, mycotoxins, and host nutrition, with an emphasis on molecular detoxification mechanisms and translational strategies. Materials and Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Comprehensive searches across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were undertaken for studies published between January 2020 and March 2025. Inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed research involving mycotoxins, gut microbiota, and nutritional modulation. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2 and adapted PRISMA-ScR protocols. Results and Discussion: Findings reveal that both host enzymatic systems (Phase I and II metabolism) and microbial enzymes contribute significantly to mycotoxin detoxification. Probiotic strains such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium enzymatically transform aflatoxins, ochratoxins, and trichothecenes into less toxic forms. Nutrients including vitamins A, C, E, selenium, and polyphenols modulate detoxification enzymes and restore redox balance. Prebiotic fibers and polyunsaturated fats further shape gut microbiota toward detoxification-competent profiles. Synergistic probiotic–prebiotic systems (PPSP) and functional food interventions show promise in mitigating mycotoxin toxicity. Conclusion: The gut microbiota–nutrition–mycotoxin axis offers a promising framework for addressing mycotoxin-induced toxicity, particularly in undernourished populations. Integrated strategies combining dietary modulation, microbial interventions, and personalized nutrition platforms can enhance systemic resilience. Future research should prioritize mechanistic elucidation, human trials, and multi-omics integration to translate these insights into precision detoxification therapies.