Basic mechanisms of the cellular alterations in T-2 toxin poisoning: Influence on the choice and result of the therapy

T-2 mycotoxin, secondary metabolite of Fusarium fungi, is one of the most potent cytotoxic representatives of trichothecene mycotoxin type A. After ingestion, T-2 toxin affects actively dividing cells and irreversible post-mitotic cells. In our experiments, the best protective effects were produced by dexametasone (PI = 3.37) and different methylprednisolone formulations (PI = 2.43-2.64). Significant protective efficacy was shown by nimesulide (PI = 1.44) and N-acethyilcistein (PI = 1.29), but their values were higher in a combination with methylprednisolone (PI = 2.16-2.34). Radioprotector amifostine (WR-2721) expressed good protective effects (PI = 1.26) or/and different absorbent formulations, such as: activated charcoal (PI = 1.13) and various Min-a-zel® powder compounds, which are a well known zeolite clinoptilolite absorbents. Among the five zeolite regimens investigated, only Min-a-zel Plus® showed a significant protective effect (PI = 1.77). In summary, the steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs could be recommended as a regimen of choice for treatment of acute T-2 toxicosis while nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory compounds, different absorbent formulations and their combinations with antioxidants or radioprotectors could be important for the treatment of subacute and chronic T-2 toxin poisonings