In vitro ruminal metabolism of larkspur alkaloids

Larkspur (Delphinium sp) poisoning of range cattle is a serious, recurring problem in the western United States. Numerous stratagems have been recommended to ameliorate larkspur intoxication, but none are completely effective. Previous studies in this laboratory indicated bovine ruminal microflora are capable of chemically modifying Delphinium alkaloids. Research reported herein was undertaken to further evaluate whether differences in ovine and bovine rumen metabolism might explain differences in susceptibility to larkspur intoxication and whether existing metabolic activity can be enhanced by sustained exposure to Delphinium alkaloids. Comparison of ovine and bovine rumen metabolism of Delphinium geyeri alkaloids in vitro failed to demonstrate differences in the rate of alkaloid metabolism. Rumen liquor collected sequentially from a fistulated cow dosed with dried Delphinium geyeri did not vary in ability to metabolize larkspur alkaloids.