Interpretive Summary: 5-hydroxytryphophan mitigates ergot alkaloid-induced suppression of serotonin and feed intake in cattle
By: Eriton E L Valente, James L Klotz, Ryana C Markmann, J Lannett Edwards, David L Harmon
Some grass species have a symbiotic relationship with an endophytic fungus that produces toxic ergot alkaloids which have detrimental impacts on herbivores. Ergot alkaloids have a significant impact on livestock production causing annual loss to the livestock industry that likely exceeds $1 billion. Effective treatment for this toxicosis is still needed. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of acute exposure to ergot alkaloids and 5-hydroxytryptophan supplementation on feed intake, serotonin metabolism, and blood metabolites in cattle. We found that 5-hydroxytryptophan administration has the potential to normalize both circulating serotonin and feed intake reduced by ergot alkaloid consumption.
Read the full article in the Journal of Animal Science.