Stress management between mycotoxins and serotonin
Recent Publication
Fungal toxins, known as mycotoxins, can disrupt the balance of the serotonin system, which is crucial for our mental health and stress management. They affect the breakdown of tryptophan, an amino acid that produces serotonin. Together, stress and mycotoxins can reduce serotonin production and thus increase the risk of mental illnesses such as anxiety disorders and depression. Some mycotoxins, such as aflatoxins and ochratoxins, promote inflammation and oxidative stress, which can damage the brain in the long term. Historically, the ergot fungus shows how fungal toxins can cause psychosis and physical damage. Prevention through a balanced diet, stress reduction and clean living environments is crucial to minimize the risks of mycotoxins and promote mental stability. The article has been published by Open Acces in the journal “psychopraxis. neuropraxis”.
Aigner, M., Höflich, A., Steiner-Hofbauer, V., Michenthaler, P., Schamann, A., Sulyok, M., Adam, G., & Krska, R. (2025). Stressbewältigung zwischen Mykotoxinen und Serotonin. psychopraxis. neuropraxis. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00739-024-01057-5
Prim. Univ.-Prof. PD Dr. Martin Aigner
Division of Psychiatry and Psychotherapeutic Medicine (University Hospital Tulln)
OÄ PD DDr. Anna Höflich
Division of Psychiatry and Psychotherapeutic Medicine (University Hospital Tulln)
Mag. Dr. Verena Steiner-Hofbauer
Head of
Research Centre Transitional Psychiatry
OA Dr. Paul Michenthaler
Division of Psychiatry and Psychotherapeutic Medicine (University Hospital Tulln)