Milk transfer of pyrrolizidine alkoloids in cattle

A study was conducted to determine if pyrrolizidine alkaloids from Senecio jacobaea (tansy ragwort) are passed into milk of lactating cows. Four cows were given dried tansy ragwort via rumen cannula at a dosage of 10 g/kg/day for 2 weeks. Chemical assay of pyrrolizidine alkaloid content in the dried plants averaged 0.16% by weight. By use of thin-layer chromatography, 5 alkaloids were isolated from the plant materials. The only alkaloid isolated from the milk was jacoline. Condition of the cows and nursing calves was monitored via measurement of blood leukocyte count, and serum protein, albumin, and globulin content. Sorbitol dehydrogenase values and liver biopsy specimens were used to assess liver function. In the cows, marked changes were observed in blood leukocyte count, sorbitol dehydrogenase values, and liver biopsy findings. No changes of any type were observed in the calves. Pyrrolizidine alkaloid content of the milk ranged from 9.4 to 16.7 mug/100 ml of milk.