A simple method for th preparation of lathyrine some properties of lathyrine

Abstract

A method for the isolation of lathyrine from seeds of Lathyrus tingitanus in yields of 1 g/100 g of seeds is detailed. The asymmetric α-carbon in lathyrine belongs to the L-series. Spectrophotometric titration in the pH range 2-6 indicated that the ring amino group of lathyrine with a pK of 3.9 ± 0.1 is the functional group whose dissociation affects the spectral characteristics of the chromophore. Lathyrine in dose levels of 100-400 mg/kg elicits no toxic symptoms in mice, chicks or rats. In the rat administered lathyrine is metabolized to other compounds, as judged by the amount of unaltered lathyrine excreted in urine and from the rate of urinary excretion of administered [³H]lathyrine.