Lolitrem B

Lolitrem B is a potent tremorgenic mycotoxin produced by the endophytic fungus Neotyphodium lolii. It is primarily found in perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) and is responsible for causing a neurological disorder in grazing animals known as ryegrass staggers.

Chemical Structure

Lolitrem B is a complex indole-diterpenoid molecule. Its structure consists of a tricyclic diterpene unit, a dioxopiperazine ring, and a tryptamine moiety. The molecule is highly oxygenated and contains several stereogenic centers.

Biosynthesis

The biosynthesis of Lolitrem B involves a series of enzymatic reactions. The initial steps involve the conversion of geranylgeranyl diphosphate to paspaline, a key intermediate in the biosynthesis of indole-diterpenes. This is followed by a series of modifications including hydroxylation, prenylation, and oxidation to form the final product.

Toxicity

Lolitrem B is a potent neurotoxin that acts by inhibiting potassium channels in the nervous system. This leads to increased neuronal excitability and results in symptoms such as tremors, ataxia, and in severe cases, death. The toxin is most commonly ingested by animals through the consumption of infected ryegrass.

Detection and Analysis

Various analytical methods have been developed for the detection and quantification of Lolitrem B in plant and animal tissues. These include liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Prevention and Control

Prevention and control of Lolitrem B toxicity primarily involve management practices aimed at reducing the exposure of animals to infected ryegrass. This includes rotational grazing, dilution with other feed sources, and the use of endophyte-free or low-endophyte ryegrass varieties.

See Also

• Ergot alkaloids
• Fescue toxicosis
• Paspalitrems
• Peramine

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