Project Number: 5428-32630-009-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Sep 28, 2001
End Date: May 31, 2006

Objective:
Identify any unknown alkaloids from various larkspur species and determine their toxicity. Develop analytical methods, including synthesis of immunogenic conjugates and antibody-based detection methods to enhance diagnostic procedures. Develop, and evaluate vaccines. Investigate toxin metabolism and clearance, and treatment of intoxicated animals. Investigate factors influencing larkspur consumption and toxicity, and refine management strategies to reduce losses.

Approach:
Unknown alkaloids will be isolated and characterized from larkspur species using large scale extraction followed by acid/base extraction to yield a crude alkaloid fraction. HPLC will be used to purify alkaloids for toxicity testing. Development of new analytical methods for larkspur alkaloids will continue. Immunogenic alkaloid-protein conjugates will be synthesized and immunized into animals. The resulting antibodies will be characterized, and if suitable, will be developed into ELISA detection systems. Immunogenic conjugates will be tested in animals as vaccines to determine if immunization alters larkspur toxicity. Rates of toxic metabolism and clearance will be determined using extracts and purified alkaloids. Diagnostic procedures will be enhanced. Treatment of intoxicated animals using cholinergic drugs will continue. Field and pen studies will evaluate plant, animal, and environmental factors influencing larkspur consumption and toxicity. Management options such as sheep grazing larkspur, aversive conditioning and treatment of bloat.

Project Team

James, Lynn Lee, Stephen Gardner, Dale Pfister, James Ralphs, Michael Stegelmeier, Bryan Panter, Kip

Project Annual Reports

FY 2003   FY 2002