Mycotoxin MT81 and Its Benzoylated Derivative Exhibit Potential Antisteroidogenic Activities In Prepubertal Female Wistar Rat

Abstract

MT81, a mycotoxin (polyhydroxyanthraquinone, Molecular formula C22 H18 O7) was
isolated and identified from Penicillium nigricans. It is highly toxic (LD50 value is 35.1 mg/kg
body weight) and shows antimicrobial, antileishmanial activities and produces hepato-renal
dysfunction and hematological disorders. The benzoylated derivative of MT81 was synthesized
in our laboratory and its LD50 value is 87.1 mg/kg body weight. In spite of its reduced
toxicity, the benzoylated derivative (BzMT81) shows potent antimicrobial effects. The present
study was aimed to investigate the antifertility activities of Mycotoxin MT81 and its benzoylated
derivative on the reproductive system of female prepubertal albino Wistar rats. MT81
and BzMT81 arrested vaginal opening, reduced body weight and the weights of ovaries and
uterus. Total cholesterol and ascorbic acid content of the ovaries were elevated whereas the activities
of Δ5-3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase were
decreased in a dose-dependent manner. In the adrenal gland of rat these parameters showed opposite
findings. The study reveals that MT81 and BzMT81 both inhibit ovarian steroidogenesis
and causes ovarian sterility in female prepubertal rat but the analogue shows more potentiality.