ZEARALANOL Meaning and
Definition
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Zearalanol is a chemical compound belonging to the group of mycotoxins, which are toxic substances produced by certain fungi. Specifically, zearalanol is classified as a nonsteroidal estrogenic mycotoxin isolated from Fusarium spp., a fungal genus commonly found on various crops, particularly cereals. Zearalanol displays strong estrogenic activity, mimicking the effects of the hormone estrogen in living organisms.
Due to its estrogenic properties, zearalanol has been extensively studied in relation to its effects on animals and humans. In livestock farming, zearalanol has been used as a growth promoter, particularly in cattle, swine, and poultry. It has been found to enhance feed conversion efficiency, increase weight gain, and improve overall animal performance. However, zearalanol's use as a growth enhancer in livestock is largely prohibited in many countries due to concerns regarding its potential adverse health effects.
In terms of its impact on human health, zearalanol is considered an endocrine disruptor due to its ability to interfere with hormonal activity. Studies have linked zearalanol exposure to potential effects on reproductive health, including alterations to menstrual cycles, fertility issues, and hormonal imbalances. Zearalanol has also been associated with increased risks of certain hormone-related cancers, such as breast cancer.
To mitigate the potential health risks associated with zearalanol exposure, regulatory bodies in many countries have established maximum allowable limits for zearalanol levels in food and feed products. These regulations aim to protect consumers and ensure the safety of the food supply chain.
Common Misspellings for ZEARALANOL
- xearalanol
- searalanol
- aearalanol
- zwaralanol
- zsaralanol
- zdaralanol
- zraralanol
- z4aralanol
- z3aralanol
- zezralanol
- zesralanol
- zewralanol
- zeqralanol
- zeaealanol
- zeadalanol
- zeafalanol
- zeatalanol
- zea5alanol
- zea4alanol
- zearzlanol
Etymology of ZEARALANOL
The word "Zearalanol" is derived from the term "zearalenone" and "-ol".
"Zearalenone" refers to a mycotoxin, a toxic compound produced by molds of the Fusarium genus. It is commonly found in certain types of crops, particularly corn.
The "-ol" suffix in "Zearalanol" indicates that it is an alcohol derivative. In this case, zearalenone is modified to form zearalanol.
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