Effects of teratogenic agents in range plants.

Abstract

A cyclopian-type malformation in lambs has been produced by maternal ingestion of Veratrum californicum . Arthrogryposis, torticollis, scoliosis, and cleft palate in calves resulted from the maternal ingestion of two toxic species of lupine. Contracted tendons of the forelimbs and hypermobility of the hock and stifle joints were noted in lambs from ewes that had eaten locoweeds. Two teratogenic steroidal alkaloids have been specifically identified in V. californicum . An apparent relationship between locoism and lathyrism has been hypothesized on the basis of the botanical and chemical relationship of plants and the similarity of congenital deformities.