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[Food Poisoning by Ginkgo Seeds through Vitamin B6 Depletion]
1Department of Food and Chemical Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido.
Yakugaku Zasshi : Journal of the Pharmaceutical Society of Japan
|January 5, 2019
Summary
Ginkgo biloba seed consumption can cause poisoning, including convulsions and vomiting, due to the toxin 4'-O-methylpyridoxine (MPN). Vitamin B6 is an effective treatment for this toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Ethnobotany
Background:
- Ginkgo biloba seeds are increasingly consumed globally.
- Overconsumption is linked to food poisoning, including tonic-clonic convulsions and vomiting.
- The toxic agent 4 -O-methylpyridoxine (MPN) was identified in 1985.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the toxicity of Ginkgo biloba seeds.
- To examine the role of MPN in ginkgo seed poisoning.
- To discuss global case reports and treatment strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of ginkgo seed poisoning.
- Analysis of MPN and MPN glucoside content in seeds.
- Review of clinical case reports and treatment outcomes.
Main Results:
- Ginkgo seed toxicity correlates with MPN and MPN glucoside levels.
- MPN disrupts vitamin B6 metabolism, altering plasma concentrations of key analogs.
- Case reports confirm poisoning incidents across continents, effectively treated with vitamin B6.
Conclusions:
- Ginkgo seed poisoning is a significant concern due to rising consumption.
- Understanding MPN's mechanism and effective treatments like vitamin B6 is crucial.
- Global awareness and education are essential to prevent ginkgo seed poisoning incidents.
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