Lotaustralin

Lotaustralin is a cyanogenic glycoside, a type of natural toxin that can release cyanide when metabolized by the body. It is found in various plant species, particularly those in the family Fabaceae, such as the bird's-foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) and the tropical kudzu (Pueraria phaseoloides).

Chemical Structure and Properties

Lotaustralin is a derivative of the amino acid Isoleucine, with a chemical formula of C10H17NO6. It is structurally similar to other cyanogenic glycosides, such as Amygdalin and Linamarin, but differs in the sugar moiety attached to the cyanogenic aglycone. In lotaustralin, this is a glucose molecule.

Occurrence and Role in Plants

Lotaustralin is one of the many secondary metabolites produced by plants as a defense mechanism against herbivores. When plant tissues are damaged, as in the case of herbivory, lotaustralin is hydrolyzed by the enzyme Beta-glucosidase, releasing hydrogen cyanide (HCN), a potent toxin. This process is known as cyanogenesis.

Toxicity and Human Health

Ingestion of plants containing lotaustralin can lead to cyanide poisoning in humans and other animals. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include dizziness, headache, nausea, and in severe cases, respiratory failure and death. However, the risk of poisoning is generally low unless large quantities of the plant are consumed.

Detoxification and Use in Food

Some traditional food preparation methods can reduce the cyanogenic glycoside content of plants, making them safe to eat. These methods include soaking, boiling, and fermenting. However, care must be taken to ensure that these processes are carried out thoroughly to avoid residual toxicity.

See Also

• Cyanogenic glycoside
• Cyanogenesis
• Isoleucine
• Amygdalin
• Linamarin
• Beta-glucoside