| Linamarin can be found in the seed, skins and embryos of flax. Epidemic spastic paraparesis (konzo) found in tropical and subtropical countries is known to be caused by long-term intake of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz), which contains a cyanoglucoside linamarin (alpha-hydroxyisobutyronitrile-beta-D-glucopyranoside). It has been reported that linamarin is enzymatically converted to cyanide by bacteria in the intestine, and this is absorbed into the blood and then damages neural cells. However, unmetabolized linamarin was found in the urine after oral administration of cassava, thus, we hypothesized that konzo could be caused by direct toxicity of the unmetabolized linamarin that was transferred to the brain and could be transported into neural cells via a glucose transporter. In the present study it was confirmed that linamarin directly damaged neural culture pheochromocytoma cell (PC) 12 cells, 010mM-linamarin caused cell death at 1331 (SD 207)%, which was significantly different from that of control group (318 (SD 092) %, P=00004). Additional 10uM-cytochalasin B, an inhibitor of a glucose transporter, prevented cell death: the percentage of dead cells significantly decreased to 606 (SD 198), P=00088). Furthermore, glucose also prevented cell death. These present results strongly suggest that linamarin competes with cytochalasin B and glucose for binding to a glucose transporter and enters into cells via glucose transporter. Melting Point: 142-143C Solubility: Hot Acetone, Alcohol, Water Storage and Stability: May be stored at RT for short-term only. Long-term storage is recommended at -20C. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial prior to removing the cap. |
