Identification of the quinolizidine alkaloids in Sophora leachiana

Authors: Lee, Stephen; Cook, Daniel; MOLYNEUX, RUSSELL - University Of Hawaii

Submitted to: Biochemical Systematics and Ecology
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 12/21/2013
Publication Date: 6/1/2014
Publication URL: http://handle.nal.usda.gov/10113/58464
Citation: Lee, S.T., Cook, D., Molyneux, R.J. 2014. Identification of the quinolizidine alkaloids in Sophora leachiana. Biochemical Systematics and Ecology. 54:1-4.

Interpretive Summary: Sophora is a diverse genus representing herbs, shrubs, and trees that occurs throughout the world, primarily in the northern hemisphere. Sophora species contain a variety of alkaloids that are toxic including some alkaloids that can cause birth defects. However, there are no previous reports on the alkaloid content of Sophora leachiana. In this report, the alkaloid composition of Sophora leachiana was investigated throughout its geographical distribution using field collections and herbarium specimens. Sophora leachiana contains alkaloids and represents a potential toxic risk to livestock but does not contain anagyrine, an alkaloid that is responsible for birth defects in cattle.

Technical Abstract: Sophora is a diverse genus representing herbs, shrubs, and trees that occurs throughout the world, primarily in the northern hemisphere. Sophora species contain a variety of quinolizidine alkaloids that are toxic and potentially teratogenic. However, there are no previous reports on the alkaloid content of Sophora leachiana. In this report, the quinolizidine alkaloid composition of Sophora leachiana was investigated throughout its geographical distribution using field collections and herbarium specimens. Sophora leachiana contains quinolizidine alkaloids and represents a potential toxic risk to livestock but does not contain the potent teratogen, anagyrine.