Cylindrospermopsin

Cylindrospermopsin is a cyanotoxin produced by freshwater cyanobacteria. It was first identified in the 1970s in Australia, following an outbreak of hepatoenteritis in Palm Island. The toxin is produced by several species of cyanobacteria, including Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii, Aphanizomenon ovalisporum, and Umezakia natans.

Structure and Properties

Cylindrospermopsin is a alkaloid with a tricyclic guanidine moiety combined with a hydroxymethyluracil group. It is a polar, water-soluble compound that is stable in the environment for long periods. It is resistant to boiling and to the action of protease enzymes.

Toxicity

Cylindrospermopsin is a potent toxin affecting primarily the liver and kidney. It inhibits protein synthesis and causes oxidative stress, leading to cell death. The toxin can be ingested through contaminated water or food, or inhaled during water-based recreational activities.

Detection and Treatment

Methods for the detection of cylindrospermopsin in water include liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). There is currently no specific antidote for cylindrospermopsin poisoning, and treatment is supportive.

Regulation

In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has included cylindrospermopsin on its Contaminant Candidate List, a watchlist of unregulated contaminants that may require future regulation. The World Health Organization has issued a provisional guideline value for cylindrospermopsin in drinking water.

See Also

• Microcystin
• Anatoxin-a
• Saxitoxin

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