Which genus is known to produce aflatoxin associated with hepatocellular carcinoma?

• A. Aspergillus fumigatus
• B. Candida albicans
• C. Penicillium chrysogenum
• D. Aspergillus flavus

Answer: (D)

Aflatoxins are potent liver carcinogens produced by certain fungi, most notably Aspergillus flavus. These toxins can contaminate stored crops like peanuts, corn, and other nuts, especially under warm, humid conditions, leading to human exposure. Aflatoxin B1 is bioactivated in the liver to a reactive epoxide that binds DNA and causes mutations, notably in the p53 tumor suppressor gene, which can drive hepatocellular carcinoma. Among the options, the genus known to produce aflatoxin is Aspergillus flavus; the others listed do not produce aflatoxins (A. fumigatus causes aspergillosis; Candida albicans causes candidiasis; Penicillium chrysogenum is a source of penicillin).