Lolitrem

Lolitrem B is a mycotoxin produced by the fungus Neotyphodium lolii, which is an endophyte of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne). It is one of the causative agents of ryegrass staggers, a neurological disease of livestock that graze on infected grass.

Chemical structure and biosynthesis

Lolitrem B is a member of the indole-diterpene family of mycotoxins. Its chemical structure consists of a diterpene core with an indole moiety attached via a C-N bond. The biosynthesis of lolitrem B involves the action of several enzymes, including a prenyltransferase that catalyzes the attachment of the indole moiety to the diterpene core.

Toxicity and mechanism of action

Lolitrem B is a potent neurotoxin that acts by blocking potassium channels in nerve cells. This leads to a disruption of the normal functioning of the nervous system, resulting in symptoms such as tremors, unsteady gait, and in severe cases, paralysis and death. The toxin is most commonly ingested by livestock through the consumption of infected ryegrass, but it can also be present in hay made from infected grass.

Prevention and control

The best way to prevent ryegrass staggers is to avoid grazing livestock on ryegrass pastures during periods of high risk, such as during drought conditions when the fungus is more likely to produce the toxin. Other control measures include the use of endophyte-free ryegrass varieties and the application of fungicides to infected pastures.

See also

• Ergot alkaloids
• Fescue toxicosis
• Mycotoxin

Lolitrem Resources
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