Fungi and fungal toxins as weapons

Article By:

Paterson, Robert Russell Monteith Micoteca da Universidade do Minho, Centro de Engenharia Biológica, Braga, Portugal.

Lima, Nelson Micoteca da Universidade do Minho, Centro de Engenharia Biológica, Braga, Portugal.

Last reviewed:2010

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1036/1097-8542.YB100066

Preparations of human, animal, or plant fungal pathogens as spores or fragments are a major security concern as biological weapons. Moreover, the preparation of purified toxins from toxigenic fungi is accomplished by a straightforward process, and conform to substances known as chemical weapons. A list of fungal toxins is provided in the table. The factors that are fundamental to producing a serviceable bioweapon are (1) efficient manufacture, (2) ease of conversion to a weapon (“weaponization”), (3) longevity of the organism or toxin in storage, (4) efficient dispersal, and (5) stability when exposed to the environment. Other factors are concealment and ability to obtain the toxin or fungus. The threat posed by these weapons may not be obvious initially. However, the economic consequences of simply reacting to an actual attack can be huge. Indeed, somber assessments of the dangers of bioweapons to the United States, for example, have been made. The effect on society could be anything from insignificant to catastrophic. It is thus much more appropriate to focus on prevention, followed by readiness and response. Current terrorist tactics have shifted worldwide attention to the protection of food supplies. A broad range of actions and programs is being developed and implemented to prevent, deter, and respond to potential attacks. These include enhanced laboratory capability, advanced tracking, increased examination, more surveillance, greater training, recovery plans, and new medical treatments.

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