Pre-eclampsia is one of the leading causes of foetal and maternal mortality and morbidity worldwide, especially in under resourced countries1. Maize is a staple diet in these countries, and indeed for most rural populations in South Africa. Environmental conditions in certain areas are conducive for fungal growth, which in turn results in the production of a myriad of mycotoxins. These include, Fumonisin B_1 (FB_1), Aflatoxin B_1 (AFB_1) and Zearalenone (ZEA). Both FB_1 and ZEA are produced by the Fusarium species predominatly F. verticillioides and F. graminearum, respective. Aflatoxin B_1 is produced by the Aspergillus parasiticus predominantly.
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