Linamarin

Linamarin is a cyanogenic glucoside found in the leaves and roots of plants such as cassava, lima beans, and flax. It is named after the Linum genus, which includes flax. Linamarin is a natural compound that can release hydrogen cyanide when the plant tissue is damaged, acting as a defense mechanism against herbivores. However, it can also pose a risk to human health if consumed in large amounts.

Chemical Structure

Linamarin is a cyanogenic glucoside, which means it contains a sugar molecule (glucose) and a cyanide-containing aglycone. The aglycone in linamarin is acetone cyanohydrin. The chemical formula of linamarin is C10H17NO6.

Occurrence

Linamarin is found in several plant species, most notably in the cassava plant (Manihot esculenta). It is also present in lima beans (Phaseolus lunatus) and flax (Linum usitatissimum). The compound is typically found in the leaves and roots of these plants.

Toxicity

When plant tissues containing linamarin are damaged, the compound can be hydrolyzed by the enzyme linamarase, releasing hydrogen cyanide. This acts as a defense mechanism against herbivores. However, if consumed in large amounts, linamarin can pose a risk to human health due to the release of cyanide.

Detoxification

Methods for detoxifying linamarin in food crops, particularly cassava, have been developed. These include soaking, cooking, and fermenting the plant material. These processes help to break down the linamarin and release the cyanide gas, reducing the risk of cyanide poisoning.

See Also

• Cyanogenic glycosides
• Cassava
• Lima beans
• Flax

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Linamarin

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