Lathyrus sativus
Lathyrus sativus · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (7 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Lathyrus sativus, commonly known as the grass pea, is a legume primarily utilized for its edible seeds and roots. While it serves as a crucial food source, the plant contains neurotoxic chemicals such as beta-N-Oxalyl-L-alpha,beta-diaminopropionic acid and 2,3-diaminopropionic acid. Consuming preparations like flour or crude extracts made from ripe seeds can lead to the debilitating neurological condition known as lathyrism or neurolathyrism. Beyond its risks, scientific interest has focused on these compounds regarding their roles in hemostasis and potential links to Alzheimer's Disease. Understanding the complex chemical profile of this plant is essential for balancing its nutritional value with its neurotoxic activity.
- Synonyms
- Lathyrus Abyssinicus · Lathyrus Sativus Var. Stenophyllus · 32 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Seed · Root
Classification
Common Names
Lathyrus sativus is a versatile legume known by a wide variety of regional and common names. In some areas, it is affectionately referred to as Adi mürdümük, while others identify it as Cicerchia. It is also frequently called Cicerchia comune, highlighting its botanical connections. Depending on the geographical context, you may encounter it known as the Ethiopian lentil. Finally, the plant is sometimes simply referred to as Gesse, showcasing the diverse terminology used across different cultures.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Lathyrus sativus is a versatile plant that is recognized by several different scientific synonyms throughout botanical history. It has been formally identified under various names, including Cicercula alata and Cicercula alba. Additionally, the species is associated with the designations Cicercula caerulea and Cicercula sativa. The taxonomic complexity extends to specific variations, such as Cicercula sativa var. alba. Understanding these various names is essential for accurately documenting the plant's diverse lineage.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Lathyrus sativus is a distinctive species that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Fabales, which helps define its biological grouping. As a member of the family Fabaceae, it shares characteristics with many other well-known legumes. Finally, this plant is identified specifically by its genus, Lathyrus.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lathyrus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Lathyrus sativus displays a diverse geographical distribution across several key regions of the African continent. In East Tropical Africa, this plant is commonly found within the landscapes of both Kenya and Tanzania. Its presence extends beyond the mainland to the Atlantic islands of Macaronesia. Specifically, it can be located throughout the Azores, the Canary Islands, and Madeira. This wide-ranging habitat highlights the plant's ability to thrive in varied island and continental environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Lathyrus sativus is characterized by its distinct growth form as a herbaceous plant. As a self-supporting species, it maintains its structure without the need for external climbing aids. The plant exhibits significant variation in stature, with heights typically ranging from a minimum of 0.3 meters to a maximum of 1 meter. Some specimens may specifically begin their growth at a minimum height of 0.625 meters. This flexibility in size allows the herb to adapt effectively to its various environmental conditions.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Lathyrus sativus is a plant known to contain the potent neurotoxin 3-N-oxalyl-L-alpha,beta-diaminopropionic acid, commonly referred to as beta-ODAP. This specific nonprotein amino acid is the primary substance responsible for the neurotoxic activity observed in the seeds and seedlings of the species. Scientific research has focused on distinguishing this neurotoxin from its much less harmful alpha-isomer to better understand its chemical properties. Studies on in vivo metabolism suggest that while the toxin can undergo oxidation in various animals, its precise mechanism of neurotoxicity remains a subject of investigation. Consequently, developing precise analytical methods like HPLC is essential for quantifying these toxic levels in plant samples.
Compounds
Lathyrus sativus is a plant known to contain several significant nonprotein amino acids, most notably the neurotoxin ODAP. This toxin exists in two distinct forms within the plant, specifically as the potent neurotoxic beta-ODAP and its much less toxic alpha-ODAP isomer. The chemical identity of this neurotoxin is also referred to as beta-N-oxalylamino-L-alanine. Furthermore, analytical studies have identified that Lathyrus sativus contains homoarginine alongside these toxic compounds. Understanding the presence and concentration of these specific substances is essential for studying the neurological effects associated with the plant.
Conditions
Lathyrus sativus is primarily associated with the induction of lathyrism and neurolathyrism through the ingestion of its neurotoxic components. While the plant is a known cause of these conditions, research into its metabolic profile suggests that its seeds, specifically chickpeas, may offer anti-cholinesterase effects useful in treating Alzheimer's disease. Furthermore, the plant's copper/topaquinone amine oxidases interact with specific chemical compounds, such as N6-(3-aminopropyl)adenine and N6-(4-amino-cis-but-2-enyl)adenine. These specific adenine derivatives act as inhibitors when they react with the enzymes found within Lathyrus sativus. Consequently, the plant serves as a complex subject of study ranging from neurotoxic disease causation to potential medicinal applications.
Preparations
Lathyrus sativus is prepared as an alcoholic extract to produce primate models of lathyrism in cynomolgus monkeys. Researchers also utilize crude extracts of the plant material to determine the contents of beta-ODAP and homoarginine via capillary zone electrophoresis. In clinical cases, the plant is prepared as flour, which has been linked to the development of bronchial asthma through inhalation. The neurotoxin levels within the plant are significantly influenced by environmental factors when it is prepared as ripe seeds. Finally, seed extracts are analyzed using HPLC systems to monitor the isomerization and quantification of potent neurotoxic substances.
Parts used
Lathyrus sativus, commonly known as the grass pea, contains specific plant parts that play significant roles in its chemical composition. The seeds of this species are particularly notable for harboring the neurotoxin beta-ODAP, which can lead to neurological changes upon consumption. Research also indicates that the roots of the plant are integral to its biological processes, especially concerning the transport of micronutrients like zinc. The concentration of toxins within these seeds can be influenced by soil conditions, such as zinc deficiency or high iron levels. Understanding the relationship between these various parts of Lathyrus sativus is essential for studying the mechanisms behind neurolathyrism.