What role does aflatoxin play in cancer development?
Aflatoxins are classified as Group 1 carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). They contribute to cancer development by causing direct DNA damage and by promoting the formation of mutagenic adducts. This can lead to the activation of oncogenes or the inactivation of tumor suppressor genes, such as TP53. Chronic exposure to aflatoxins is a major risk factor for liver cancer, particularly in regions with high levels of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, which can synergistically increase the risk of HCC.