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Review
. 2019 Jan 9:6:143-150.
doi: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2019.01.002. eCollection 2019.

Toxicological profile of Amanita virosa - A narrative review

Affiliations
Review

Toxicological profile of Amanita virosa - A narrative review

Milad Tavassoli et al. Toxicol Rep. .

Abstract

Mushrooms account for a part of human diet due to their exquisite taste and protein content as well as their promising health effects unveiled by scientific research. Toxic and non-toxic mushrooms frequently share considerable morphological similarities, which mislead the collectors/consumers, resulting in mycotoxicity. Numerous mushroom species are considered "poisonous" as they produce dangerous toxins. For instance, members of the genus Amanita, especially A. phalloides, A. virosa and A. verna, are responsible for severe and even life-threatening noxious consequences. Globally, mushroom poisoning is a crucial healthcare issue as it leads to a considerable number of deaths annually. However, no definite antidote has been introduced to treat this poisoning. The present article discusses the characteristics of A. virosa in terms of epidemiology, mechanisms of toxicity, poisoning features and management.

Keywords: Amanita virosa; Amanitin; Epidemiology; Mushroom poisoning; Phalloidin.

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Figures

None
Graphical abstract
Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Amanita virosa.
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Phalloidin attacks the cell membranes causing leakage of calcium atoms, followed by loss of potassium ions. Reproduced based on a previously published report [60] with permission from the Estate of Bunji Tagawa.
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
Amanitin disintergrates hepatic cell nucleus. Reproduced based on a previously published report [60] with permission from the Estate of Bunji Tagawa.
Fig. 4
Fig. 4
Phalloidin as a phallotoxin, is a cyclic, or ring molecule made up of seven amino acids (outlined). A sulfur atom, connects the side chains of two amino acids on opposite sides of the ring. Reproduced based on a previously published report [60] with permission from the Estate of Bunji Tagawa.
Fig. 5
Fig. 5
Eight amino acids of amatoxin. Reproduced based on a previously published report [60] with permission from the Estate of Bunji Tagawa.
Fig. 6
Fig. 6
Thiotic Acid chemical structure. Reproduced based on a previously published report [60] with permission from the Estate of Bunji Tagawa.

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