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Cherewyk JE, Blakley BR, Al-Dissi AN. The C-8-S-isomers of ergot alkaloids - a review of biological and analytical aspects. Mycotoxin Res 2024; 40:1-17. [PMID: 37953416 PMCID: PMC10834577 DOI: 10.1007/s12550-023-00507-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Ergot alkaloids are secondary metabolites that are produced by fungi and contaminate cereal crops and grasses. The ergot alkaloids produced by Claviceps purpurea are the most abundant worldwide. The metabolites exist in two configurations, the C-8-R-isomer (R-epimer) and the C-8-S-isomer (S-epimer). These two configurations can interconvert to one another. Ergot alkaloids cause toxic effects after consumption of ergot-contaminated food and feed at various concentrations. For bioactivity reasons, the C-8-R-isomers have been studied to a greater extent than the C-8-S-isomer since the C-8-S-isomers were considered biologically inactive. However, recent studies suggest the contrary. Analytical assessment of ergot alkaloids now includes the C-8-S-isomers and high concentrations of specific C-8-S-isomers have been identified. The inclusion of the C-8-S-isomer in regulatory standards is reviewed. This review has identified that further research into the C-8-S-isomers of ergot alkaloids is warranted. In addition, the inclusion of the C-8-S-isomers into regulatory recommendations worldwide for food and feed should be implemented. The objectives of this review are to provide an overview of historic and current studies that have assessed the C-8-S-isomers. Specifically, this review will compare the C-8-R-isomers to the C-8-S-isomers with an emphasis on the biological activity and analytical assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jensen E Cherewyk
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B4, Canada.
| | - Barry R Blakley
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Ahmad N Al-Dissi
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B4, Canada
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Reynolds MR, Stanford K, Meléndez DM, Schwartzkopf-Genswein KS, McAllister TA, Blakley BR, McKinnon JJ, Ribeiro GO. Effect of continuous or intermittent feeding of ergot contaminated grain in a mash or pelleted form on the performance and health of feedlot beef steers. J Anim Sci 2024; 102:skae060. [PMID: 38442241 PMCID: PMC10981080 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skae060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
This study evaluated the effect of feeding ergot contaminated grain continuously or intermittently through backgrounding (BG) and finishing (FN) in a mash or pelleted supplement on the growth performance, health and welfare parameters, and carcass characteristics of feedlot beef steers. Sixty black Angus steers (300 ± 29.4 kg BW) were used in a complete randomized 238-d study. Steers were stratified by weight and randomly assigned to four different diets (15 steers/treatment) and individually housed. Treatments included: (1) control [CON; no added ergot alkaloids (EA)], (2) continuous ergot mash (CEM; fed continuously at 2 mg total EA/kg of DM), (3) intermittent ergot mash (IEM; fed at 2 mg total EA/kg of DM, during the first week of each 21-d period and CON for the remaining 2 wk, this feeding pattern was repeated in each period), and (4) intermittent ergot pellet (IEP; fed at 2 mg of total EA/kg of DM as a pellet during the first week of each 21-d period and CON for the remaining 2 wk as described for IEM). Steers were fed barley based BG diets containing 40% concentrate:60% silage (DM basis) for 84 d (four 21-d periods), transitioned over 28 d (no ergot fed) to an FN diet (90% concentrate:10% silage DM basis) and fed for 126 d (six 21-d periods) before slaughter. In the BG phase, steer DMI (P < 0.01, 7.45 vs. 8.05 kg/d) and ADG (P < 0.01) were reduced for all EA diets compared to CON. The CEM fed steers had lower ADG (P < 0.01, 0.735 vs. 0.980 kg) and shrunk final BW (P < 0.01, 350 vs. 366 kg) than CON. CEM had lower gain:feed (P < 0.07, 0.130 vs. 0.142) than CON. In the FN phase, steer DMI (P < 0.01, 9.95 vs. 11.05 kg/d) and ADG (P = 0.04) were also decreased for all EA fed steers compared to CON. Total shrunk BW gain (P = 0.03, 202.5 vs. 225.2 kg), final BW (P = 0.03, 617.9 vs. 662.2 kg), and carcass weight (P = 0.06) decreased for all EA fed steers compared to CON. The percentage of AAA carcasses decreased for all EA fed steers (P < 0.01, 46.7 vs. 93.3%) compared to CON. EA fed steers had increased rectal temperatures (P < 0.01, 39.8 vs. 39.4 °C) compared to CON. Pelleting ergot contaminated grain did not reduce the impact of ergot alkaloids on any of the measured parameters during BG or FN. Continuously or intermittently feeding ergot contaminated diets (2 mg total EA/kg of DM) significantly reduced intake, growth performance, and carcass weight, with minimal impact on blood parameters in feedlot steers. Pelleting was not an effective method of reducing ergot toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew R Reynolds
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Kim Stanford
- Biological Sciences Department, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
| | - Daniela M Meléndez
- Lethbridge Research and Development Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, AB, Canada
| | | | - Tim A McAllister
- Lethbridge Research and Development Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, AB, Canada
| | - Barry R Blakley
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - John J McKinnon
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Gabriel O Ribeiro
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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Schrenk D, Bignami M, Bodin L, Chipman JK, del Mazo J, Grasl‐Kraupp B, Hogstrand C, Leblanc J, Nebbia CS, Nielsen E, Ntzani E, Petersen A, Sand S, Schwerdtle T, Vleminckx C, Wallace H, Gropp J, Mulder P, Oswald IP, Woutersen R, Gómez Ruiz JÁ, Rovesti E, Hoogenboom L(R. Risks for animal health related to the presence of ergot alkaloids in feed. EFSA J 2024; 22:e8496. [PMID: 38264299 PMCID: PMC10804272 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2024.8496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The European Commission requested EFSA to provide an update of the 2012 Scientific Opinion of the Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain (CONTAM) on the risks for animal health related to the presence of ergot alkaloids (EAs) in feed. EAs are produced by several fungi of the Claviceps and Epichloë genera. This Opinion focussed on the 14 EAs produced by C. purpurea (ergocristine, ergotamine, ergocornine, α- and β-ergocryptine, ergometrine, ergosine and their corresponding 'inine' epimers). Effects observed with EAs from C. africana (mainly dihydroergosine) and Epichloë (ergovaline/-inine) were also evaluated. There is limited information on toxicokinetics in food and non-food producing animals. However, transfer from feed to food of animal origin is negligible. The major effects of EAs are related to vasoconstriction and are exaggerated during extreme temperatures. In addition, EAs cause a decrease in prolactin, resulting in a reduced milk production. Based on the sum of the EAs, the Panel considered the following as Reference Points (RPs) in complete feed for adverse animal health effects: for pigs and piglets 0.6 mg/kg, for chickens for fattening and hens 2.1 and 3.7 mg/kg, respectively, for ducks 0.2 mg/kg, bovines 0.1 mg/kg and sheep 0.3 mg/kg. A total of 19,023 analytical results on EAs (only from C. purpurea) in feed materials and compound feeds were available for the exposure assessment (1580 samples). Dietary exposure was assessed using two feeding scenarios (model diets and compound feeds). Risk characterisation was done for the animals for which an RP could be identified. The CONTAM Panel considers that, based on exposure from model diets, the presence of EAs in feed raises a health concern in piglets, pigs for fattening, sows and bovines, while for chickens for fattening, laying hens, ducks, ovines and caprines, the health concern related to EAs in feed is low.
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Ge J, Shelby SL, Wang Y, Morse PD, Coffey K, Li J, Geng T, Huang Y. Cardioprotective properties of quercetin in fescue toxicosis-induced cardiotoxicity via heart-gut axis in lambs (Ovis Aries). JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 458:131843. [PMID: 37379607 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
The present study investigated whether quercetin mitigated fescue toxicosis-induced cardiovascular injury via the heart-gut axis. Twenty-four commercial Dorper lambs were stratified by body weight and assigned randomly to diets in one of four groups: endophyte-free without quercetin (E-,Q-), endophyte-positive without quercetin (E+,Q-), endophyte-positive plus 4 g/kg quercetin (E+,Q+) or endophyte-free plus 4 g/kg quercetin (E-,Q+) for 42 days. Body weight and average daily feed intake (ADFI) of lambs fed the endophyte-positive diets showed significant decreases. However, in the groups treated with quercetin, there were significant alterations of cardiac enzymes. Furthermore, reduced fescue toxicosis-induced histopathological lesions of heart and aorta were demonstrated in the E+,Q+ lambs. Results also suggested quercetin eased cardiovascular oxidative injury by inhibiting the increase of oxidative metabolites, and enhancing the levels of antioxidases. Quercetin reduced the inflammation response through suppressing NF-κB signaling pathway activation. Additionally, quercetin ameliorated fescue toxicosis-induced mitochondria dysfunction and improved mitochondrial quality control through enhancing PGC-1α-mediated mitochondrial biogenesis, maintaining the mitochondrial dynamics, and relieving aberrant Parkin/PINK-mediated mitophagy. Quercetin enhanced gastrointestinal microbial alpha and beta diversity, alleviated gut microbiota and microbiome derived metabolites-SCFAs dysbiosis by fescue toxicosis. These findings signified that quercetin may play a cardio-protective role via regulating the heart-gut microbiome axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Ge
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, PR China; Department of Animal Science, Division of Agriculture, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, United States
| | - Sarah Layne Shelby
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Agriculture, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, United States
| | - Yongjie Wang
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Agriculture, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, United States
| | - Palika Dias Morse
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Agriculture, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, United States
| | - Ken Coffey
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Agriculture, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, United States
| | - Jinlong Li
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Tuoyu Geng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou 225009, PR China.
| | - Yan Huang
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Agriculture, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, United States.
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Comparison of the 7-day CO-Synch and 8-day estradiol-based protocols for estrus synchronization and timed artificial insemination in suckled Bos taurus cows. Theriogenology 2023; 200:70-76. [PMID: 36764187 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Two experiments were conducted to compare, follicle diameter (FD) on Day -1, corpus luteum (CL) area on Day 7, progesterone (P4) concentration on Day 7 and 18, pregnancy per timed artificial insemination (TAI) on Day 30, and pregnancy loss (PL) between Days 30 and 60 after TAI (TAI, Day 0) using two different synchronization protocols. In Experiment 1, Angus cows (n = 1148) were randomly assigned to either 7-d progesterone CO-Synch (7-d CO-Synch) or 8-d progesterone + estradiol (8-d P + ES) synchronization protocols for TAI. On Day -10, cows in the 7-d CO-Synch treatment group (n = 574) received a progesterone-releasing intravaginal device (PIVD; 0.5 g P4) and GnRH (0.105 mg), on Day -3 the PIVD was removed and cows received cloprostenol (0.150 mg), then, on Day 0 (64 h after PIVD removal), cows received GnRH (0.105 mg) and were TAI. On Day -10, cows in the 8-d P + ES treatment group (n = 574) received a PIVD (0.5 g P4) and estradiol benzoate (2.0 mg), on Day -2 the PIVD was removed, and cows received cloprostenol (0.150 mg) and estradiol cypionate (0.5 mg), then, on Day 0 (48 h after PIVD removal), cows were TAI. Pregnancy per TAI was determined on Days 30 and 60. In a subset of cows (7-d CO-Synch, n = 41; 8-d P + ES, n = 40), serum P4 concentration was evaluated on Day 18. In Experiment 2, anestrus (n = 34) and cyclic (n = 34) suckled beef cows were selected and submitted at random on Day -10, to either 7-d CO-Synch or 8-d P + ES treatment groups. Follicle diameter on Day -1, CL area, and serum P4 concentration on Day 7 were determined. In Experiment 1, pregnancy per TAI on Day 30 did not differ (7-d CO-Synch = 48.9%; 8-d P + ES = 45.6%) between treatments but it was greater for cows with BCS ≥5 (P < 0.01). Pregnancy loss between Days 30 and 60 did not differ between treatment groups but tended to be greater in cows with BCS <5.0 (P < 0.1). In a subset of cows, serum P4 concentration on Day 18 did not differ between treatment groups but tended to be lower (P < 0.1) in cows that had PL between Days 30 and 60 compared to cows that had no PL. In Experiment 2, FD tended to be greater (P < 0.1) and CL area was greater (P = 0.05) in anestrus cows from 7-d CO-Synch treatment. In cyclic cows, the treatment did not affect the FD or CL area. In conclusion, there was no difference in pregnancy per TAI on Day 30 and PL between Days 30 and 60 between cows using 7-d CO-Synch + PIVD or 8-d estradiol-based + PIVD protocols for estrus synchronization and TAI.
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Cowan VE, Chohan M, Blakley BR, McKinnon J, Anzar M, Singh J. Chronic ergot exposure in adult bulls suppresses prolactin but minimally impacts results of typical breeding soundness exams. Theriogenology 2023; 197:71-83. [PMID: 36476505 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.11.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Canadian standards allow ≤3000 μg ergot alkaloids/kg cattle feed. A concentration-response relationship was hypothesized between ergot in feed and reductions in plasma prolactin, sperm motility, sperm function, and increase in sperm abnormalities. The study consisted of pre-treatment (12 weeks), treatment (9 weeks), and post-treatment periods (10 weeks). Adult bulls were fed 1113 (n = 8; low ergot group) or 2227 (n = 6; high) μg/kg of dry matter intake. Endpoints were measured every two weeks. Ejaculates were analyzed for sperm concentration, total and progressive motility, plasma membrane and acrosome integrity, mitochondrial membrane potential and sperm abnormalities. Data were analyzed by repeated measures MIXED PROC in SAS. Average outside ambient temperature during the pre-treatment, treatment, and post-treatment periods was -13 (-31 to 1), 0.5 (-18 to 19), and 21 (13-28) °C. Plasma prolactin decreased markedly during treatment (-52.4%; Experimental period p < 0.01). Rectal temperature increased during the treatment and post-treatment periods (EP p < 0.01) but was within the normal physiological range. Bull weight increased during the study (EP p < 0.01). Scrotal circumference in low ergot group increased during treatment (+0.8 cm; Tx∗EP p = 0.05). Progressive motility in high ergot group decreased during treatment (-7%; Tx∗EP p = 0.05), however, semen volume and sperm concentrations were unaffected (p ≥ 0.11). Live sperm with high and medium MMP decreased during treatment (-1.4 and -3.7%; EP p < 0.01). Results suggest that feeding ≤2227 μg ergot alkaloids/kg has only minor effects on adult bull semen quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa E Cowan
- Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N5B4, Canada; Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N5B3, Canada
| | - Moveed Chohan
- Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N5B4, Canada
| | - Barry R Blakley
- Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N5B4, Canada; Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N5B3, Canada
| | - John McKinnon
- Animal and Poultry Science, College of Agriculture and Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N5A8, Canada
| | - Muhammad Anzar
- Canadian Animal Genetic Resource Program, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Saskatoon, SK, S7N0X2, Canada
| | - Jaswant Singh
- Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N5B4, Canada.
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Penagos-Tabares F, Khiaosa-ard R, Nagl V, Faas J, Jenkins T, Sulyok M, Zebeli Q. Mycotoxins, Phytoestrogens and Other Secondary Metabolites in Austrian Pastures: Occurrences, Contamination Levels and Implications of Geo-Climatic Factors. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:460. [PMID: 34209232 PMCID: PMC8310091 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13070460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Pastures are key feed sources for dairy production and can be contaminated with several secondary metabolites from fungi and plants with toxic or endocrine-disrupting activities, which possess a risk for the health, reproduction and performance of cattle. This exploratory study aimed to determine the co-occurrences and concentrations of a wide range of mycotoxins, phytoestrogens and other secondary metabolites in grazing pastures. Representative samples of pastures were collected from 18 Austrian dairy farms (one sample per farm) between April to October 2019. After sample preparation (drying and milling) the pastures were subjected to multi-metabolite analysis using LC-MS/MS. In total, 68 metabolites were detected, including regulated zearalenone and deoxynivalenol (range: 2.16-138 and 107-505 μg/kg on a dry matter (DM) basis, respectively), modified (3-deoxynivalenol-glucoside, HT-2-glucoside) and emerging Fusarium mycotoxins (e.g., enniatins), ergot alkaloids and Alternaria metabolites along with phytoestrogens and other metabolites. Aflatoxins, fumonisins, T-2 toxin, HT-2 toxin and ochratoxins were not detected. Of the geo-climatic factors and botanical diversity investigated, the environment temperature (average of 2 pre-sampling months and the sampling month) was the most influential factor. The number of fungal metabolites linearly increased with increasing temperatures and temperatures exceeding 15 °C triggered an exponential increment in the concentrations of Fusarium and Alternaria metabolites and ergot alkaloids. In conclusion, even though the levels of regulated mycotoxins detected were below the EU guidance levels, the long-term exposure along with co-occurrence with modified and emerging mycotoxins might be an underestimated risk for grazing and forage-fed livestock. The one-year preliminary data points out a dominant effect of environmental temperature in the diversity and contamination level of fungal metabolites in pastures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Penagos-Tabares
- Institute of Animal Nutrition and Functional Plant Compounds, University of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (F.P.-T.); (Q.Z.)
| | - Ratchaneewan Khiaosa-ard
- Institute of Animal Nutrition and Functional Plant Compounds, University of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (F.P.-T.); (Q.Z.)
| | - Veronika Nagl
- BIOMIN Research Center, Technopark 1, 3430 Tulln, Austria; (V.N.); (J.F.); (T.J.)
| | - Johannes Faas
- BIOMIN Research Center, Technopark 1, 3430 Tulln, Austria; (V.N.); (J.F.); (T.J.)
| | - Timothy Jenkins
- BIOMIN Research Center, Technopark 1, 3430 Tulln, Austria; (V.N.); (J.F.); (T.J.)
| | - Michael Sulyok
- Department IFA-Tulln, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), Konrad Lorenzstrasse 20, 3430 Tulln, Austria;
| | - Qendrim Zebeli
- Institute of Animal Nutrition and Functional Plant Compounds, University of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria; (F.P.-T.); (Q.Z.)
- Christian-Doppler-Laboratory for Innovative Gut Health Concepts in Livestock (CDL-LiveGUT), Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
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Alfaro GF, Rodriguez-Zas SL, Southey BR, Muntifering RB, Rodning SP, Pacheco WJ, Moisá SJ. Complete Blood Count Analysis on Beef Cattle Exposed to Fescue Toxicity and Rumen-Protected Niacin Supplementation. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11040988. [PMID: 33916070 PMCID: PMC8065407 DOI: 10.3390/ani11040988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Fescue toxicity results from cattle consuming fungal (Ergot spp.) endophyte-infected tall fescue. Ergot alkaloids like ergovaline produce vasoconstriction in cattle. Our objectives were to analyze changes in complete blood count and performance due to ergot alkaloid detoxification in growing beef cattle and the effect of selecting dams tolerant or susceptible to fescue toxicity based on their tolerance index, measured through a genetic test currently available for beef producers. Furthermore, rumen-protected niacin supplementation is proposed as a potential alleviator for vasoconstriction produced by fescue toxicity. Therefore, we assessed the effects of consuming endophyte-infected tall fescue seeds in addition to rumen-protected niacin supplementation in offspring performance and hematological parameters. Signs for anemia were noticed in susceptible heifer offspring that did not receive rumen-protected niacin, whereas inflammation or infection was detected in tolerant steers that received niacin in their diet. Typical symptoms of heat stress and intoxication with ergot alkaloids were noticed in offspring. Our results suggest that susceptible heifer offspring might have a more active detox metabolism when under fescue toxicity. Findings from this study could be utilized as a new tool to help beef cattle producers to dampen the adverse effects of fescue toxicity. Abstract Offspring born to dams genetically tested for resistance to fescue toxicity were separated in groups based on their dams’ resistance level (tolerant vs. susceptible). Rumen-protected niacin (RPN) is proposed as a potential alleviator for vasoconstriction produced by fescue toxicity. Complete blood count (CBC) analysis was utilized for detection of significant responses to treatments applied. Our objectives were as follows: (a) to analyze changes in CBC due to fescue toxicity, maternal resistance level, and RPN in growing offspring; and (b) to assess the effects of maternal resistance level when consuming endophyte-infected tall fescue seeds in addition to RPN in offspring performance. Body weight, average daily gain, or health status were not improved by RPN or the genetic test to detect fescue toxicity resistance. Typical signs of alkaloids intoxication and heat stress were noticed in offspring. Particularly, rectal temperature was greater for susceptible control heifers. Results showed that susceptible control offspring presented signs of anemia denoted by low mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV). High levels of white blood cells (WBC) and basophils in combination to low neutrophils to lymphocytes ratio were the signs of infection or inflammation detected in the CBC analysis, especially in tolerant niacin steers. Furthermore, offspring of control heifers had a greater percentage of reticulocytes and RDW, denoting signs of anemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaston F. Alfaro
- Department of Animal Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; (G.F.A.); (R.B.M.); (S.P.R.)
| | - Sandra L. Rodriguez-Zas
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; (S.L.R.-Z.); (B.R.S.)
| | - Bruce R. Southey
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; (S.L.R.-Z.); (B.R.S.)
| | - Russell B. Muntifering
- Department of Animal Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; (G.F.A.); (R.B.M.); (S.P.R.)
| | - Soren P. Rodning
- Department of Animal Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; (G.F.A.); (R.B.M.); (S.P.R.)
| | - Wilmer J. Pacheco
- Department of Poultry Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA;
| | - Sonia J. Moisá
- Department of Animal Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; (G.F.A.); (R.B.M.); (S.P.R.)
- Correspondence:
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Effects of Tall Fescue Endophyte Type and Dopamine Receptor D2 Genotype on Cow-Calf Performance during Late Gestation and Early Lactation. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13030195. [PMID: 33803203 PMCID: PMC8000531 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13030195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Grazing endophyte-infected, toxic tall fescue reduces cow/calf production; therefore, this study examines alternate strategies such as use of novel endophyte fescue varieties during late gestation and early lactation or genetic selection of resistant cows. Pregnant cows (n = 75) were randomly assigned to fescue endophyte type: 1) endophyte-infected ergot alkaloid producing tall fescue (E+) or 2) novel endophyte-infected, non-toxic tall fescue (NOV) within maternal (A|A, n = 38 and G|G, n = 37) DRD2 genotype to examine changes in cow/calf performance and milk production during late gestation and early lactation. Grazing E+ fescue pastures during late gestation reduced cow body weight gain but did not alter calf birth weight compared to NOV. Milk production and calf ADG during the first 30 day of lactation were lower for E+ than NOV. The calving rate was reduced, but not calving interval for E+ cows. The adjusted 205-day weight of calves was lower in those grazing E+ with their dams compared to NOV. There were no interactions between DRD2 genotype and fescue endophyte type indicating that genotype was not associated with response to E+ fescue in this study. Overall, grazing NOV tall fescue pastures rather than E+ during critical stages of production improved cow gain during late gestation, calving rate, early milk production and calf growth.
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Rumen and Serum Metabolomes in Response to Endophyte-Infected Tall Fescue Seed and Isoflavone Supplementation in Beef Steers. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12120744. [PMID: 33256042 PMCID: PMC7761436 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12120744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Fescue toxicosis impacts beef cattle production via reductions in weight gain and muscle development. Isoflavone supplementation has displayed potential for mitigating these effects. The objective of the current study was to evaluate isoflavone supplementation with fescue seed consumption on rumen and serum metabolomes. Angus steers (n = 36) were allocated randomly in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments including endophyte-infected (E+) or endophyte-free (E−) tall fescue seed, with (P+) or without (P−) isoflavones. Steers were provided a basal diet with fescue seed for 21 days, while isoflavones were orally administered daily. Following the trial, blood and rumen fluid were collected for metabolite analysis. Metabolites were extracted and then analyzed by UPLC-MS. The MAVEN program was implemented to identify metabolites for MetaboAnalyst 4.0 and SAS 9.4 statistical analysis. Seven differentially abundant metabolites were identified in serum by isoflavone treatment, and eleven metabolites in the rumen due to seed type (p < 0.05). Pathways affected by treatments were related to amino acid and nucleic acid metabolism in both rumen fluid and serum (p < 0.05). Therefore, metabolism was altered by fescue seed in the rumen; however, isoflavones altered metabolism systemically to potentially mitigate detrimental effects of seed and improve animal performance.
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Qusa MH, Abdelwahed KS, Meyer SA, El Sayed KA. Olive Oil Lignan (+)-Acetoxypinoresinol Peripheral Motor and Neuronal Protection against the Tremorgenic Mycotoxin Penitrem A Toxicity via STAT1 Pathway. ACS Chem Neurosci 2020; 11:3575-3589. [PMID: 32991800 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.0c00458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Penitrem A, PA, is an indole diterpene alkaloid produced by several fungal species. PA acts as a selective Ca2+-dependent K-channels (Maxi-K, BK) antagonist in brain, causing motor system dysfunctions including tremors and seizures. However, its molecular mechanism at the peripheral nervous system (PNS) is still ambiguous. The Mediterranean diet key ingredient extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) provides a variety of minor bioactive phenolics. (+)-Pinoresinol (PN) and (+)-1-acetoxypinoresinol (AC) are naturally occurring lignans in EVOO with diverse biological activities. AC exclusively occurs in EVOO, unlike PN, which occurs in several plants. Results suggest that PA neurotoxicity molecular mechanism is mediated, in part, through distortion of the Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway. PA selectively activated the STAT1 pathway, independently of the interferon-γ (IFN-γ) pathway, in vitro in Schwann cells and in vivo in Swiss albino mice sciatic nerves. Preliminary in vitro screening of an EVOO phenolic compounds library for the ability to reverse PA toxicity on Schwann cells revealed PN and AC as potential hits. In a Swiss albino mouse model, AC significantly minimized the fatality after intraperitoneal administration of PA fatal doses and normalized most biochemical factors by modulating the STAT1 expression. The olive lignan AC is a novel lead that can prevent the neurotoxicity of food-contaminating tremorgenic indole alkaloid mycotoxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed H. Qusa
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana at Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, Louisiana 71201, United States
| | - Khaldoun S. Abdelwahed
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana at Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, Louisiana 71201, United States
| | - Sharon A. Meyer
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana at Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, Louisiana 71201, United States
| | - Khalid A. El Sayed
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana at Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, Louisiana 71201, United States
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Ugwah-Oguejiofor CJ, Okoli CO, Ugwah MO, Okolo RU, Bello SO. Assessment of reproductive impact of the aerial parts of Caralluma dalzielii N. E. Br in female Wistar rats. Heliyon 2020; 6:e05199. [PMID: 33102839 PMCID: PMC7575800 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e05199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Caralluma dalzielii N. E. Brown belonging to family Asclepiadaceae, is a popular cactus-shaped plant native to East Africa. The aerial parts are used traditionally for treating various diseases including infertility. The present study evaluated the effects of the aqueous extract of the aerial parts of Caralluma dalzielii (AECD) on reproductive performance of female Wistar rats. Adult female virgin rats were allotted into four major groups namely pre-conception, post-conception, implantation site and ovariectomized rats' groups. Each group was subdivided into 4 groups and treated orally with 125, 250, 500 mg/kg of AECD or distilled water (vehicle). In the pre-conception and post-conception groups, litter sizes, pups' weights, deformities, gestation length and reproductive indices were determined. Number of implantation sites and weights of embryos were assessed in the implantation site group while in the ovariectomised rats' group, uterine weights were determined. AECD produced no difference in litter size and reproductive indices in pre-conception group while in post-conception group the litter size at 500 mg/kg was significantly (p < 0.05) reduced compared to the control. Post-implantation loss index was high, and the other reproductive indices were reduced at 500 mg/kg. Whereas at the dose of 125 mg/kg, post-implantation loss index was reduced, and litter size was increased when compared to the control group. At 500 mg/kg, AECD caused a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the number of implantation sites and weight of embryos while at 125 mg/kg the implantation sites increased. A significant (p < 0.05) increase in the uterine weight in the ovariectomised rats' group was observed at all dose levels. Our study provides scientific evidence that supports the traditional use of AECD in the treatment of infertility. At a lower dose, AECD acts by increasing the number of implantation sites and litter size of animals but at a higher dose, it may be embryotoxic. AECD increases uterine wet weight in ovariectomised rats suggesting that the plant may be oestrogen-like.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chinenye J. Ugwah-Oguejiofor
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, P.M.B. 2346, Sokoto, Nigeria
- Corresponding author.
| | - Charles O. Okoli
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Michael O. Ugwah
- Department of Pharmacy, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, P.M.B. 2346, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - Ray U. Okolo
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Shuaibu O. Bello
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Health Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, P.M.B. 2346, Sokoto, Nigeria
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Koester LR, Poole DH, Serão NVL, Schmitz-Esser S. Beef cattle that respond differently to fescue toxicosis have distinct gastrointestinal tract microbiota. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0229192. [PMID: 32701945 PMCID: PMC7377488 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0229192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Tall fescue (Lolium arundinaceum) is a widely used forage grass which shares a symbiosis with the endophytic fungus Epichloë coenophiala. The endophyte produces an alkaloid toxin that provides herbivory, heat and drought resistance to the grass, but can cause fescue toxicosis in grazing livestock. Fescue toxicosis can lead to reduced weight gain and milk yields resulting in significant losses to the livestock industry. The objective of this study was to identify bacterial and fungal communities associated with fescue toxicosis tolerance. In this trial, 149 Angus cows across two farms were continuously exposed to toxic, endophyte-infected, fescue for a total of 13 weeks. Of those 149 cows, 40 were classified into either high (HT) or low (LT) tolerance groups according to their growth performance (weight gain). 20 HT and 20 LT cattle balanced by farm were selected for amplicon sequencing to compare the fecal microbiota of the two tolerance groups. This study reveals significantly (q<0.05) different bacterial and fungal microbiota between HT and LT cattle, and indicates that fungal phylotypes may be important for an animal’s response to fescue toxicosis: We found that fungal phylotypes affiliating to the Neocallimastigaceae, which are known to be important fiber-degrading fungi, were consistently more abundant in the HT cattle. Whereas fungal phylotypes related to the genus Thelebolus were more abundant in the LT cattle. This study also found more pronounced shifts in the microbiota in animals receiving higher amounts of the toxin. We identified fungal phylotypes which were consistently more abundant either in HT or LT cattle and may thus be associated with the respective animal’s response to fescue toxicosis. Our results thus suggest that some fungal phylotypes might be involved in mitigating fescue toxicosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas R. Koester
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Preventive Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States of America
- Interdepartmental Microbiology Graduate Program, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States of America
| | - Daniel H. Poole
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States of America
| | - Nick V. L. Serão
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States of America
- * E-mail: (NVS); (SSE)
| | - Stephan Schmitz-Esser
- Interdepartmental Microbiology Graduate Program, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States of America
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States of America
- * E-mail: (NVS); (SSE)
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Adamski Z, Blythe LL, Milella L, Bufo SA. Biological Activities of Alkaloids: From Toxicology to Pharmacology. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12040210. [PMID: 32224853 PMCID: PMC7232379 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12040210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zbigniew Adamski
- Department of Animal Physiology and Development/Electron and Confocal Microscope Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
- Correspondence: (Z.A.); (S.A.B.)
| | - Linda L. Blythe
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis, 97331 OR, USA;
| | - Luigi Milella
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy;
| | - Sabino A. Bufo
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy;
- Correspondence: (Z.A.); (S.A.B.)
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Waret-Szkuta A, Larraillet L, Oswald IP, Legrand X, Guerre P, Martineau GP. Unusual acute neonatal mortality and sow agalactia linked with ergot alkaloid contamination of feed. Porcine Health Manag 2019; 5:24. [PMID: 31719998 PMCID: PMC6833232 DOI: 10.1186/s40813-019-0131-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background An increase in the occurrence of ergot alkaloid contamination has been observed in Europe in recent years. The typical clinical signs of pig ergot poisoning are impaired growth, agalactia and, sometimes, gangrene. Opportunities for reporting exposure doses associated with clinical signs in animals under field conditions are rare. Case presentation In a farrow-to-finish pig farm with 160 sows, excessive acute neonatal mortality was reported in association with a loss of appetite and agalactia in sows. A herd examination was conducted and a high rate of piglet loss and agalactia in 13 sows out of the most affected batch of 20 were confirmed. Necropsy showed piglets with empty stomachs and intestines, with apparently normal mucosa. Gestating and lactating sow diet samples, as well as a wheat sample, were sent for analysis following feed mill inspection and a hypothesis of mycotoxin contamination of self-prepared feed. Liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry in tandem revealed an amount of total ergot alkaloids in all of the samples ranging from 3.49 mg/kg (gestating diet) to 8.06 mg/kg (lactating diet). The contaminated feed was removed and the situation returned to normal 3 weeks later (following batch of sows). Conclusion In the present case, the exposure of sows to 3.49 mg/kg ergot alkaloid for 10 to 15 days before the end of gestation and to 8.06 mg/kg ergot alkaloid over 3 to 4 days at the beginning of lactation - corresponding to a content of 10,146 mg of sclerotia/kg in the wheat of the diets- led to agalactia in 13 of 20 sows in a batch and to a high neonatal mortality rates for all litters. No clinical signs associated with vasoconstrictive effects were observed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Isabelle P Oswald
- Toxalim (Research Centre in Food Toxicology), Université de Toulouse, INRA, ENVT, INP-Purpan, UPS, 31027 Toulouse, France
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