Aflatoxin inhibition of rat liver mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase activity

Abstract

Aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, G2, and M1 have been evaluated for activity toward cytochrome oxidase in isolated rat liver mitochondria employing ferrocytochrome c and p-phenylene diamine as reductants. The aflatoxins inhibited the cytochrome oxidase activity to a greater extent when monitored by O2 uptake measurements than by substrate oxidation. AFG2 and AFM1 were the most potent (50-70%). Using oligomycin and 2,4-DNP as respiratory inhibitor and uncoupler, respectively, the aflatoxins appear to inhibit e- rather than energy transfer reactions. These toxins did not uncouple cytochrome oxidase activity.