Ergocornine

Authors: Klotz, James

Submitted to: Review Article
Publication Type: Review Article
Publication Acceptance Date: 5/30/2019
Publication Date: 9/9/2019
Citation: Klotz, J.L. 2019. Ergocornine. Review Article. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-801238-3.98305-3.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-801238-3.98305-3

Interpretive Summary: Ergocornine is a toxin that is produced by several different species of fungi. It is part of a larger group of toxins, ergot alkaloids, that have historically had profound negative effects on humans, and continue to impact livestock productivity. Because ergocornine is not a predominantly produced ergot alkaloid, it has not received much attention. This should not preclude this toxin from consideration, because it does contribute to the over all negative impact that ergot alkaloids can have on an exposed individual. This review paper highlights these aspects as well as describes the chemical make up of ergocornine and reviews the research done that describes how this ergot alkaloid causes the observed negative effects of ergotism. This review will primarily benefit researchers and students interested in ergot alkaloid toxicology.

Technical Abstract: This reference module describes the chemical and biological properties of ergocornine, a natural fungal-produced ergot alkaloid. After a brief description of the compound’s structural chemistry, the origin, production, and bioactivity of ergocornine is discussed. Complications associated with exposure to ergocornine will also be described in relation to the compound’s bioactivity.