Evaluation of the toxicity of the secondary metabolites produced by Leptosphaeria maculans

The Challenge

Sirodesmin PL is a secondary metabolite produced by L.maculans that is structurally related to a potent mycotoxin (gliotoxin) that is toxic/deadly to humans and livestock. Research targeted towards determining the risk of L. maculans toxicity in Alberta canola is warranted due to export market concerns.

The Project

Determine the contamination level of sirodesmin PL in Alberta’s canola seed, oil and meal by bin survey and sampling, along with its toxicity in cells and animals. Canola seed will be collected from fields with high levels of L. maculans infestation.

The Results

Sirodesmin PL toxicity was shown to be comparable to gliotoxin, but no canola products in this study were found to contain sirodesmin PL. Sirodesmin PL contamination does not present a serious risk to the Canadian canola industry.

Grower Benefits

Market exports can be confident that Canadian canola products are safe for human consumption and for livestock production use. This will secure canola markets and bring economic benefit to canola growers.