Identifying Sources of Resistance to Aflatoxin and Fumonisin Contamination in Corn Grain: History and Progress from the University of Illinois

F. moniliforme

J. Sheld.), and

F. proliferatum

(Matsushima) Nirenb. are economically important pathogens to U.S. corn (

Zea mays

L.) producers.

Aspergillus flavus

is associated with

Aspergillus

ear rot of corn and the synthesis of aflatoxin in grain, while

F. verticillioides

and

F. proliferatum

are associated with

Fusarium

ear and kernel rot of corn and the synthesis of fumonisin in grain. Studies have linked consumption of corn grain contaminated with either aflatoxin or fumonisin to a number of detrimental health effects in animals and humans.