This study looked at the teratogenic potential of Fusarium mycotoxins in animal models. Pregnant rats were exposed to F. moniliforme corn culture material and purified fumonisins B1 (FB1). Researchers then analyzed the uterus for fetal resorption, and the pups for gross anomalies, weight, and corpora lutea were counted. Additionally, corn containing foods were sample assayed for fumonisin content. Results found that under experimental conditions, teratogenic potential exists for FB1, but not for F. moniliforme contaminated corn. This suggests that either F. moniliforme is not as bioavailable as purified FB1 or that crude culture material contains antiteratogens. Human exposure to fumonisins in yellow and white corn meal were measured at 0.75 mg-7.5 mg/55 kg woman per day or about 14-140 ug/kg body weight. This suggests fumonisins might be teratogenic to humans, but do not pose a severe risk. Fumonisins may be very useful in understanding mechanisms of growth-related signal transduction.