Microcystin-YR-KLH Antigen

Microcystin-YR is a cyclic heptapeptide hepatotoxin produced by freshwater cyanobacteria (blue-green algae), such as Microcystis aeruginosa. Structurally, it differs from other variants by possessing tyrosine (Y) and arginine (R) at the highly variable amino acid positions. When livestock, poultry, or aquatic species ingest water during harmful algal blooms, Microcystin-YR bioaccumulates within their organs, notably the liver. It exerts toxic effects by inhibiting cellular protein phosphatases 1 and 2A (PP1 and PP2A), inducing severe oxidative stress and liver necrosis. The stability of this toxin allows it to persist and enter the human food supply via contaminated meat, seafood, or milk, presenting substantial risks of chronic liver poisoning, gastrointestinal distress, and potential carcinogenicity.