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An apparent relationship between locoism and lathyrism
Canadian Journal of Comparative Medicine and Veterinary Science
|December 1, 1967
Summary
This study investigated the link between locoism and lathyrism, finding that lathyrogens from loco plants cause similar toxic effects in animals. These findings suggest a shared toxicological mechanism between these conditions.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Veterinary Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Locoism and lathyrism are distinct conditions affecting animals.
- Previous literature suggests botanical and clinical similarities between locoism and lathyrism.
- The chemical basis for locoism has not been fully elucidated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential relationship between locoism and lathyrism.
- To determine if known lathyrogens or loco plant extracts induce locoism-like symptoms.
- To identify lathyrogens within loco plant extracts.
Main Methods:
- Administration of known lathyrogens (aminoacetonitrile, alpha, gamma-diaminobutyric acid) to animals.
- Administration of extracts from loco plants to animals.
- Observation and documentation of abortive, teratogenic, and neurologic signs.
Main Results:
- Lathyrogens and loco plant extracts induced signs consistent with locoism, including developmental and neurological effects.
- Preliminary analysis indicated the presence of lathyrogens in loco plant extracts.
- The observed effects mirrored those reported in naturally occurring locoism.
Conclusions:
- Lathyrogens are likely responsible for the toxic effects observed in locoism.
- Locoism and lathyrism may share a common toxicological pathway.
- Further research is warranted to isolate and characterize lathyrogens in loco plants.