Dihydrocitrinone

Elevated levels of Dihydrocitrinone (DH-CIT) in urine could indicate exposure to the mycotoxin Citrinin (CIT), which is known to exert nephrotoxicity and is found as a contaminant in food and feed. CIT exposure can occur through the consumption of contaminated foods.

To avoid exposure to CIT, individuals are advised to carefully inspect whole grains and nuts for evidence of mold, discard any moldy, discolored, or shriveled products, and buy grains and nuts as fresh as possible from reputable brands. Proper storage and handling of food items are also essential to minimize the risk of CIT exposure. Additionally, maintaining dietary diversity can help mitigate aflatoxin exposure and improve overall health and nutrition.

In case of exposure to CIT, certain approaches can potentially help the body to remove the toxin. These include the use of activated charcoal, anti-fungals like oregano oil, probiotics, and liposomal glutathione. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment if CIT exposure is suspected or confirmed.

Dihydrocitrinone (DHC) is a metabolite of Citrinin (CTN), which is a mycotoxin produced by several fungal strains in the Penicillium, Aspergillus and Monascus genera and found in stored grains and other food products. Citrinin has nephrotoxic and genotoxic effects, and often occurs in combination with ochratoxin A. Studies show that dihydrocitrinone (DHC) has a signicantly reduced cytotoxic and genotoxic potential as compared to CTN. Thus, DHC is considered a detoxication related step of CIT metabolism.