Progress 05/01/01 to 04/30/06
Outputs
Progress Report 4d Progress report. This report serves to document research conducted under a specific cooperative agreement between ARS and Washington State University. Additional details of research can be found in the report for the parent project 5428-32000-011-00D. "Crooked Calf Syndrome" is a disease of calves manifest by skeletal birth defects and cleft palate that occur when cows in early pregnancy ingest lupines that contain teratogenic alkaloids. Calves with severe deformities cannot stand and must be euthanized. Calves with cleft palate often develop pneumonia and die shortly after birth. Less severely affected calves (bent limbs) are viable but not suited to the range conditions in this region. In affected areas it is common for ranches to have 1% to 5% of calves born affected but periodically, 40% or more of calves are affected. Ranches in the scabland of central Washington experienced such losses in 1997 (40% to 100% losses on individual ranches) and
since 1980 have experienced 7 years with high incidence. The affected area is semi-arid extensive rangeland and is unsuitable for agricultural use other than grazing. Crooked Calf Syndrome is a severe constraint to the economic viability and sustainability of ranches and the local support community. Ranches cannot survive in the face of these losses in excess of 40% as occurred in 1997 and other high incidence years. There is no control procedure for herds that calve in the spring other than the use of herbicides which is ecologically unsound and of limited efficacy. Furthermore, elimination of lupines may not be the best policy because lupines are legumes that build soil nutrients, contain high levels of protein and may provide important late season nutrition for grazing cattle, but not pregnant cows in the first trimester of pregnancy. Research the last 5 years has determined relative risk on individual ranches by identifying which species are endemic and determining alkaloid
profiles and concentrations in those species. We determined when and why cattle graze lupines in relationship to availability of other forages and environmental conditions. We determined certain animal factors that predispose cattle to graze lupines and provided preliminary data on absorption, distribution and elimination of the teratogenic alkaloid anagyrine in pregnant cows. While multiple lupine species were identified and analyzed on ranches in this region we determined that a single species (Lupinus leucophyllus) is problematic as it contains the teratogen, anagyrine, and is widespread on most ranches experiencing lupine losses in the region. Alkaloid profiles and concentrations have been studied the last five years and there was substantial year to year variation in total alkaloid concentration of lupines at all sites. Total alkaloid concentration over the 5 year period varied from a minimum of two-fold at one site to a maximum of eight-fold at another site. In any one year the
change-trend in total alkaloid concentration was the same at each site and there were years where all sites had high alkaloid concentration in lupines and years where all sites had low alkaloid concentrations. Alkaloid concentration in lupines varies with the stage of growth, it is moderately high in the young growing leaf material, decreases in concentration in the more mature leaf growth, is high in the flower bud and highest in the seed. The results reported in this study were from samples collected in mid May when approximately 25% of the lupines are in early flower and were taken as bud samples in an attempt to minimize growth stage variability. There was also marked year to year variation in the proportion of the total alkaloids represented by any single individual alkaloid and a marked variation in the proportion represented by anagyrine. Percent anagyrine in total alkaloid varied from 8 to 62%, 22 to 84%, 31 to 67% and 15 to 70% at four sites over five years. The trend to a
higher or lower percentage of anagyrine in the total alkaloid was similar in any one year for all four sites. The majority of lupine ingestion occurs between the first of July and the middle of August after most grasses have dried or been depleted by grazing. Lupines remain green for longer periods during the summer and the flowers and seed pods contain relatively high levels of protein and other nutrients. Thus, as the availability of perennial grasses and forbs senesced or dried up, in mid July, cattle started to ingest lupines selecting a combination of the dry, dessicated lupine leaves and the younger, green leaves and pods. Cows actively sought out the new seedlings that germinated during late summer. Late summer rains influenced the availability and growth of these seedlings which impacted the grazing of lupines and available grasses. Lactating cows were fed Lupinus leucophyllus and significant levels of teratogenic alkaloids were detected in the blood and milk of these cows.
Preliminary data was collected on the absorption and elimination profiles determined in blood and milk. Cows that gave birth to crooked calves and cows from the same pastures that gave birth to normal calves were gavaged with lupine containing high concentrations of anagyrine to determine if there is a difference in the absorption or elimination of anagyrine between the two groups. No differences were found on the incidence of crooked calves or from the effects of lupine on the suppression of fetal activity as determined by ultrasound. There is little information on the effects of body condition (thin vs fat cows) on ingestion and or metabolism of poisonous plants. Native cows preconditioned and classified as fat or thin were used in a grazing study on the scabland pastures. Thin cows grazed over a longer period of time on any given day and ingested significantly more lupine. Eventually all animals ate substantial quantities of lupine, but thin cows ate more lupine, thus we believe
the risk of intoxication is particularly high for thin cows compared to cattle with higher body condition. Furthermore, preliminary data in average condition vs thin sheep suggested that anagyrine was absorbed more rapidly and eliminated more slowly by the thin sheep. Therefore, animals in low body condition appear to be more at risk of poisoning from lupines than animals in average or high body condition Even though much research has been accomplished and we more fully understand when and why cattle graze lupine, important questions remain unanswered that are needed to manage lupine grazing. Some of these questions include: (1) How do environmental factors influence lupine survival, population cycles and toxin profiles; (2) How much lupine and for how long does a pregnant cow need to graze lupine to result in crooked calves; (3) Why do cattle graze lupines and what drives cattle to eat lupine when they do; (4) What is the disposition of anagyrine and other teratogens in the fetal
compartment; (5) Can a biomarker be identified in cattle as a tool to select for resistance or sensitivity to the effects of lupine; (6) What improved management strategies can be recommended for ranchers to reduce losses. We believe that answering these research questions and others will not only benefit producers in eastern Washington but will help all ranchers that manage rangelands with poisonous plants.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Gay, C.C., Panter, K.E., Mealey, K.L., Gay, J.M., Hjartarson, S.W., Tibary, A., Motteram, E.S., Wierenga, T.L., James, L.F. 2004. Comparison of plasma disposition of alkaloids after lupine challenge in cattle that had given birth to calves with lupine-induced arthrogryposis or clinically normal calves. American Journal of Veterinary Research.
- Lopez-Ortiz, S., Panter, K.E., Pfister, J.A., Launchbaugh, K. 2004. The effect of body condition on disposition of alkaloids from silvery lupine (lupinus argenteus pursh) in sheep1. Journal of Animal Science.
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Progress 10/01/04 to 09/30/05
Outputs
1. What major problem or issue is being resolved and how are you resolving it (summarize project aims and objectives)? How serious is the problem? What does it matter? Lupine-induced "crooked calf disease" causes significant losses in the western United States. In 1997 4,000 plus calves from about 12,000 cows either died or were destroyed in Adams county Washington because of birth defects. This resulted in a $1.7 million direct loss and over $5 million in indirect losses in Adams county alone. Lupine-induced losses also occurred in Utah, Montana, Nevada, and Oregon. We propose three experiments with WSU to examine why cattle ingest lupines: 1)grazing studies using 12 native cows to compare lupine grazing between cows that produced crooked calves verses cows that did not produce crooked calves. Grazing of lupine will be monitored throughout the grazing season and plants will be analyzed for teratogenic alkaloids. Incidence of crooked calves born next spring will
be recorded; 2) ten cows in various body condition will be used for grazing studies; 3) eight cow-calf pairs and four open cows will be fed lupine in a pen study to compare alkaloid absorption and excretion. Lupine continues to be a serious economic problem to livestock producers in the western United States. Objectives of our research are to determine relationships between body condition and cows grazing lupine, determine differences in lupine consumption between cows that had crooked calves and those that had normal calves, compare blood alkaloid levels and excretion rates in cows that are susceptible to lupine compared to cows that are not. Native cows will come from ranches where lupine- induced "crooked calf" disease is endemic. 2. List the milestones (indicators of progress) from your Project Plan. 1. Determine relationships between body condition and cows grazing lupine 2. Determine differences in lupine consumption between cows that had crooked calves and those that had
normal calves. 3. Compare blood alkaloid levels and excretion rates in cows that are susceptible to lupine compared to cows that are not. Native cows will come from ranches where lupine-induced crooked calf disease is endemic. 3a List the milestones that were scheduled to be addressed in FY 2005. For each milestone, indicate the status: fully met, substantially met, or not met. If not met, why. 1. Lupine samples collected from predetermined sites in in the scabland region of eastern Washington State were analyzed for alkaloid content and compared year to year. Milestone Substantially Met 2. Grazing studies to determine body condition on lupine grazing behavior in easstern Washington. Milestone Substantially Met 3b List the milestones that you expect to address over the next 3 years (FY 2006, 2007, and 2008). What do you expect to accomplish, year by year, over the next 3 years under each milestone? Year 2006: Grazing studies will be done using pregnant native cattle bred to
coincide with the tradition breeding season of local ranchers in eastern Washington and a comparison of lupine grazing time between identified lupine eaters verses non-eaters. Grazing studies will be continue in this region to determine what specific factors i.e. animal body condition, plant populations and phenology, alkaloid composition and environmental parameters that may contribute to lupine grazing. Lupine populations will be continue to be monitored to determine changes in density as related to annual climatic shifts. Plant sampling will continue to compare relative alkaloid content, especially anagyrine (the primary teratogen) in plant parts and in different regions of Eastern Washington between years. Grazing studies will be done in Washington State and in Soda Springs, Idaho using different pastures to determine if cattle graze lupines differently depending on location, environmental factors, forage availability or lupine species. Alkaloid analyses will be completed for
samples collected in 2004-2005. Lupinus formosus will be collected from two different site in California for chemical characterization of the teratogen ammodendrine. Other lupines including L. argenteus, L. arbustus and L. sulphureus will be collected and the alkaloid contents characterized. Lupine alkaloids will be isolated and toxicity compared using a mouse bioassay. Chiral pairs of the lupine alkaloid ammodendrine will be compared for teratogenic and toxic effects in cattle. Continue monitoring lupine populations to determine changes in density and relate changes to climate. Year 2007: Feeding trials will be done in pregnant cattle to determine exactly how long lupine must be ingested and how much before crooked calf disease is manifest. Continue grazing studies to evaluate when cattle start to graze lupines in the Channel scablands of Eastern Washington. Continue monitoring lupine populations to determine changes in density and related changes relative to climate. Continue
lupine sampling for year to year alkaloid comparisons. Using the goat model, teratogenic alkaloid disposition in the fetal compartment will be done. Lupine alkaloid-induced fetotoxicity will be evaluated using ultrasound and blood samples. Year 2007: Feeding trials will be done in pregnant cattle to determine exactly how long lupine must be ingested and how much before crooked calf disease is manifest. Continue grazing studies to evaluate when cattle start to graze lupines in the Channel scablands of Eastern Washington. Continue monitoring lupine populations to determine changes in density and related changes relative to climate. Continue lupine sampling for year to year alkaloid comparisons. Using the goat model, teratogenic alkaloid disposition in the fetal compartment will be done. Lupine alkaloid-induced fetotoxicity will be evaluated using ultrasound and blood samples. Year 2008: Continue grazing studies to evaluate when and why cattle start to graze lupines in the Channel
scablands of Eastern Washington. Continue research comparing lupine alkaloid profiles in lupine species from various locations, continue monitoring population shifts and continue to refine management recommendation to reduce losses from lupines. 4a What was the single most significant accomplishment this past year? A field study done with 10 native cows in eastern Washington determined that cattle prefer lupine during the summer when other forages are mature and dried. Cows readily grazed lupine on a daily basis during the most critical stage of gestation. Also, four cows were identified as lupine eaters suggesting that certain cows are more likely to eat lupine than others and maybe be among those that have crooked calf disease. 4b List other significant accomplishments, if any. Alkaloid analysis of blood samples from cows fed lupines with a known background of lupine consumption was completed and a manuscript published. 4c List any significant activities that support special
target populations. The scabland region of Washington State is predominantly suitable for cattle grazing and is an important economic center for eastern Washington. The cattle industry and ranching creates the largest economic foundation of this region, therefore this research is important to enhance the economic well being of this region. 4d Progress report. This report seves to document research conducted under Specific Cooperative Agreement #54-5428-1-0317 between USDA-ARS-Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory and Washington State University. Additional details of this research can be found in the report for the parent project 5428- 32000-011-00D The Toxicity of Pyrrolizidine Alkaloid-Contaoining Plants and Other Hepatotoxic and Neurotoxic Plants. Lupinus spp. continue to cause significant losses to the livestock industry in the western U.S. from induced crooked calf syndrome. Lupine research at the Poisonous Plant Research Lab began in about 1958 and subsequent research identified
the cause, determined the time of insult, identified the toxins, and developed a management strategy. However, considerable losses continue to occur and in the spring of 2003, large losses were reported in Washington State. We have done extensive research over the last 3 years in the Scabland region of eastern Washington where lupines are widespread and have caused catastrophic losses in recent years. Grazing studies in eastern Washington and collaborative feeding trials at Washington State University and the Poisonous Plant Research Lab have provided new and important information to help cattle producers better manage grazing programs to reduce losses. It is important that grazing studies continue to observe altered patterns of lupine growth and animal grazing behavior with changing environmental conditions. 5. Describe the major accomplishments over the life of the project, including their predicted or actual impact. Lactating cows were fed Lupinus leucophyllus at Washington
State University. Extraction and analytical protocols were developed in our laboratory for analysis of lupine alkaloids in milk. Significant levels of teratogenic alkaloids were detected in the blood and milk of cows fed L. leucophyllus and absorption and elimination profiles were determined in blood and milk. Analyses were completed from grazing trials in Washington State with fat and thin cows. There was a significant correlation between body condition and when cattle started to graze lupines and how long they grazed lupine plants. Eventually all animals ate substantial quantities of lupine, but thin animals ate more lupine at times, thus we believe the risk of intoxication is higher for thin cows than cattle with higher body condition scores. Data analyses were completed and published from an earlier cooperative research project with the University of Idaho at the Dubois Sheep Experiment Station that demonstrated that thin sheep absorbed toxic alkaloids more rapidly than did
fat sheep, and thin sheep showed slower elimination of alkaloids compared to fat animals. This suggests that kinetics of the teratogenic alkaloids may be significantly altered based on animal body condition. Clearance of selected lupine alkaloids was more rapid in animals with adequate body fat compared to thin animals (half life of elimination for anagyrine was 2.85 hours for average body condition sheep vs 3.58 hours for thin sheep). A grazing study was conducted with experienced and naive cows to determine if naive animals consume lupine differently than experienced animals. All the cattle ate lupine, and there were no major differences in the timing and amount of lupine ingested by naive animals. Consumption gradually increased throughout the grazing trial, peaking at about 12% of daily diets in early July. Plant samples collected from different ranches and various regions of eastern Washington from 2000 through the grazing season of 2003 were analyzed for anagyrine, the
teratogen, and other related alkaloids. Samples were collected during the grazing season and critical analysis done to determine low, medium and high risk pastures. Samples were collected in 2003 but analysis is not complete. Using this information we now know which lupine species are teratogenic and initially which pastures are high risk. In grazing seasons 2001-2003 cows started eating lupine early in July after cheatgrass had matured and forbs were grazed out or matured (Lupine consumption ranged from 17 to 25% of diets). This period of consumption overlaped the critical period of gestation (40-70 day of pregnancy) if the traditional breeding season begins May 1. Similar results occurred in the summer of 2005 when the cattle ate nearly all the available lupine within one week after introduction into a test pasture. Further, cattle did not seek out or avoid lupine but grazed it as a part of the diet during normal grazing patterns. 6. What science and/or technologies have been
transferred and to whom? When is the science and/or technology likely to become available to the end- user (industry, farmer, other scientists)? What are the constraints, if known, to the adoption and durability of the technology products? Over six presentations were given at the 7th International Symposium on Poisonous Plants by four different scientists from data collected as a result of this cooperative research between the poisonous plant research lab and Washington State University. Abstracts of those presentations were published and the full papers will be published in a proceedings. A management bulletin is being prepared summarizing the results and will be distributed to ranchers and land managers to assist in the grazing management of lupine pastures. 7. List your most important publications in the popular press and presentations to organizations and articles written about your work. (NOTE: List your peer reviewed publications below). Motteram, ES, Gay, CC, Panter, KE and
Wierenga, T. Year to year variation in total alkaloid and anagyrine concentration in Lupinus leucophyllus growing on the scablands of central Washington. 7th International symposium on Poisonous Plants. June 6-10, 2005, Logan, UT. Motteram, ES, Gay, CC, Panter, KE and Platt T. A geographic look at the 1997 crooked calf outbreak in Adams County, Washington using geographic information systems (GIS) technology. 7th International symposium on Poisonous Plants. June 6-10, 2005, Logan, UT. Ralphs, MH, Panter KE, Gay, CC, Motteram, ES and Lee ST. Cattle consumption of velvet lupine in the channel scablands of eastern Washington. 7th International symposium on Poisonous Plants. June 6-10, 2005, Logan, UT.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Gay, C.C., Panter, K.E., Mealey, K.L., Gay, J.M., Hjartarson, S.W., Tibary, A., Motteram, E.S., Wierenga, T.L., James, L.F. 2004. Comparison of plasma disposition of alkaloids after lupine challenge in cattle that had given birth to calves with lupine-induced arthrogryposis or clinically normal calves. American Journal of Veterinary Research.
- Lopez-Ortiz, S., Panter, K.E., Pfister, J.A., Launchbaugh, K. 2004. The effect of body condition on disposition of alkaloids from silvery lupine (lupinus argenteus pursh) in sheep1. Journal of Animal Science.
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Progress 10/01/02 to 09/30/03
Outputs
1. What major problem or issue is being resolved and how are you resolving it? Lupines continue to cause significant losses to the livestock industry in the western U.S. from induced 'crooked calf syndrome'. In the spring of 2003, large losses were reported in California, Oregon, Idaho, Western Canada and Washington State. We have done extensive research over the last 3 years in the Scabland region of eastern Washington where lupines are widespread and cause large losses every year to cattle producers. The teratogenic lupine identified was L. leucophyllus which contains relatively large concentrations of the teratogenic alkaloid anagyrine. Lupine-induced 'crooked calf disease' is responsible for significant losses to cattle producers in the western U.S. every year. In the last five years increasing incidences of the disease have been reported. In 1997, a massive loss occurred in the scablands of Washington State. Three studies have been initiated to answer
significant questions. (1) what factors contribute to the increased consumption of lupine plants resulting in large losses; (2) what animal factors contribute to the increased incidence of 'crooked calf disease'; (3) which range areas are high risk for large losses. A combination of cows native to the Scabland region and naive cows have been used in the grazing studies. 2. How serious is the problem? Why does it matter? Lupine-induced 'crooked calf disease' causes large economic losses to livestock producers in the western U.S. and especially in the Channel scablands region of Washington State. Large losses occur every year in eastern Washington but extreme catastrophic losses occur occasionally, for example in 1997 over 4000 calves died or were destroyed because of lupine-induced crooked calf disease in a single county. Additionally, cows had to be heavily culled because of calving problems and the numbers of difficult births requiring veterinary assistance dramatically increased
with relatively heavy cow losses. In the season of 1997, economic losses in excess of 1.7 million dollars to the livestock industry of Adams County Washington were estimated. In addition this loss to the cattle industry factored into a 5.25 million loss to the local economy. 3. How does it relate to the National Program(s) and National Program Component(s) to which it has been assigned? Program 108, Food Safety: The CRIS titled 'Ameliorating livestock Losses from Abortifacient and Teratogenic Plants has been assigned to the food safety program, 108. Safe feeds for livestock translates into healthier animals, higher quality products for consumers and an enhanced level of food safety and quality. National Programs 205, Rangeland, Pasture and Forage: Over the last 3 years grazing studies have been done to determine why and when cattle graze pine needles and lupines. Forage quality, environmental factors and animal behavior have been monitored in relationship to when cattle graze these
plants. This research will result in management strategies which will prevent these losses thus enhancing ranchers economic base and the economic well bing of communities of this region. 4. What were the most significant accomplishments this past year? This report serves to document the research performed under Specific Cooperative Agreement #58-5428-1-317 with Washington State University. Additional details of research can be found in parent CRIS project #5428- 32000-011-00D. A. Single Most Significant Accomplishment during FY 2003. A three year grazing study (2001-2003) was concluded in eastern Washington to determine when cows eat lupine (Lupinus leucophyllus) and to correlate consumption to the critical period of gestation when the crooked calf syndrome occurs. This research is being done as cooperative research between the Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory and the Department of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University. In all 3 years, cows started eating lupine around
the first of July after annual cheatgrass had matured and dried out, and other forbs were grazed out or matured (Lupine consumption ranged from 17 to 25% of diets). This period of consumption overlaped the critical period of gestation when crooked calf disease occurs (40-70 day of pregnancy) if the traditional breeding season begins May 1. Cattle should be removed from lupine areas during this critical period. B. A grazing study was conducted with experienced and naive cows to determine if naive animals consume lupine differently than experienced animals. All the cattle ate lupine, and there were no major differences in the timing and amount of lupine ingested by naive animals. Consumption gradually increased throughout the grazing trial, peaking at about 12% of daily diets in early July. Plant samples collected from different ranches and various regions of eastern Washington from 2000 through the grazing season of 2002 were analyzed for anagyrine, the teratoge, and other related
alkaloids. Samples were collected during the grazing season and critical analysis done to determine low, medium and high risk pastures. Samples were collected in 2003 but analysis is not complete. Using this information we now know which lupine species are teratogenic and initially which pastures are high risk. There is little information on the effects of body condition (thin vs. fat cows) on ingestion and metabolism of lupine. Analyses were completed from grazing trials in Washington State with fat and thin cows. There was a significant correlation between body condition and when cattle started to graze lupines and how long they grazed lupine plants. Eventually all animals ate substantial quantities of lupine, but thin animals ate more lupine at times, thus we believe the risk of intoxication is particularly high for thin cows compared to cattle with higher body condition scores. Data analyses were completed and published from an earlier cooperative research project with the
University of Idaho at the Dubois Sheep Experiment Station that demonstrated that thin sheep more rapidly absorbed toxic alkaloids than did fat sheep, and conversely thin sheep showed slower elimination of alkaloids compared to fat animals. This strongly suggests that toxicokinetics of the teratogenic alkaloids may be significantly altered based on animal body condition. C. This research has regional significance as lupine-induced 'crooked calf disease 'occurs throughout the western United States and Canada. Specifically, lupine-induced 'crooked calf disease' has had a major impact on the rural economy of the channel scablands of eastern Washington resulting in large losses over the last 6 - 7 years. This cooperative research is identifying high risk pastures and animal, environmental, and plant factors that contribute to the incidence of 'crooked calf disease'. 5. Describe the major accomplishments over the life of the project, including their predicted or actual impact. Lactating
cows were fed Lupinus leucophyllus at Washington State University. Extraction and analytical protocols were developed in our laboratory for analysis of lupine alkaloids in milk. Significant levels of teratogenic alkaloids were detected in the blood and milk of cows fed L. leucophyllus and absorption and elimination profiles were determined in blood and milk. Analyses were completed from grazing trials in Washington State with fat and thin cows. There was a significant correlation between body condition and when cattle started to graze lupines and how long they grazed lupine plants. Eventually all animals ate substantial quantities of lupine, but thin animals ate more lupine at times, thus we believe the risk of intoxication is particularly high for thin cows compared to cattle with higher body condition scores. Data analyses were completed and published from an earlier cooperative research project with the University of Idaho at the Dubois Sheep Experiment Station that demonstrated
that thin sheep more rapidly absorbed toxic alkaloids than did fat sheep, and conversely thin sheep showed slower elimination of alkaloids compared to fat animals. This strongly suggests that toxicokinetics of the teratogenic alkaloids may be significantly altered based on animal body condition. In grazing seasons 2001-2003 cows started eating lupine around the first of July after annual cheatgrass had matured and dried out, and other forbs were grazed out or matured (Lupine consumption ranged from 17 to 25% of diets). This period of consumption overlaped the critical period of gestation (40-70 day of pregnancy) if the traditional breeding season begins May 1. Cattle should be removed from lupine areas during this period. 6. What do you expect to accomplish, year by year, over the next 3 years? Year 2004 Grazing studies will continue to evaluate the environmental conditions, stage of plant growth, animal factors and diet when cows begin to graze lupine. Plant sampling will continue to
determine relative alkaloid content, especially anagyrine (the primary teratogen) in plant parts and in different regions of Eastern Washington. Grazing studies will be done using different pastures to determine if cattle graze lupines differently depending on location, forage availability or lupine species. Alkaloid analyses will be completed for samples collected in 2003. Lupinus formosus will be collected from two different site in California for chemical characterization of the teratogen ammodendrine. Other lupines including L. argenteus, L. arbustus and L. sulphureus will be collected and the alkaloid contents characterized. Year 2005 Continue grazing studies to evaluate when cattle start to graze lupines in the Channel scablands of Eastern Washington. Continue plant sampling for alkaloid comparisons. Pen studies and feeding trials will be done to evaluate alkaloid disposition in the fetal compartment. Lupine alkaloid-induced fetotoxicity will be evaluated using ultrasound and
blood samples. Year 2006 Continue grazing studies to evaluate when and why cattle start to graze lupines in the Channel scablands of Eastern Washington. Continue research comparing lupine alkaloid profiles. 7. What science and/or technologies have been transferred and to whom? When is the science and/or technology likely to become available to the end- user (industry, farmer, other scientists)? What are the constraints, if known, to the adoption and durability of the technology products? Information about alkaloid content, susceptible stages of gestation and relative risk of grazing in specific pastures has been transferred to extension agents and ranchers through meetings, phone conversations and written recommendations. Many management options are currently available based on available knowledge about which alkaloids in the plant are a threat, susceptible stages of gestation, effective herbicides and management techniques to reduce losses. Management to reduce livestock losses
from poisonous plants. Influence of drought on losses to toxic plants. Presented at the Arizona Strip Workshop, March 26, 2003, Kanab Utah, and March 27, 2003, St. George, Utah. Sponsored by Arizona and Utah Extension Services. The information presented at these workshop is available to ranchers and is being implemented in many grazing programs. 8. List your most important publications in the popular press and presentations to organizations and articles written about your work. (NOTE: This does not replace your peer-reviewed publications listed below). by Michael Ralphs, Kip Panter, Jim Pfister, Clive Gay and Ernie Motteram. 2003. Cattle Consumption of lupine in the scablands of Eastern Washington, Presented at Society for Range Management annual meeting, Feb 2, Casper WY. Panter, K.E. 2003. Presented seminar on toxic and teratogenic plants at 'Plant Interactions and the Effect of Global Warming on Alpine Biodiversity' workshop in Kazbegi, Republic of Georgia, June 30-July 6.
Pfister, J.A. 2003. Presented two workshops at the Arizona Strip, March 26, 2003, Kanab Utah, and March 27, St. George, Utah. Sponsored by Arizona and Utah Extension Services.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Panter, K.E., James, L.F., Wang, S., Gardner, D.R., Waffield, W., Molyneux, R.J., Stegelmeier, B.L. and Bunch, T.D. 2003. Use of Bovine Embryos Produced by In Vitro Fertilization Techniques to Screen Poisonous Plant Toxins for Cytotoxicity, In: T. Acamovic, C.S. Stewart and T.W. Pennycott, eds. CABI Publishing, Oxon, UT.
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Progress 10/01/01 to 09/30/02
Outputs
1. What major problem or issue is being resolved and how are you resolving it? Lupine-induced "crooked calf disease" causes significant losses to cattle producers in the western U.S. In the last five years increased incidences of the disease have been reported. In 1997 a massive loss occurred in the scablands of Washington State. Three studies have been initiated to answer significant questions. (1) what is the relationship in cattle between body condition and their propensity to graze lupine plants; (2) what are the relative blood alkaloid levels and excretion rates in cows identified as lupine eaters and non lupine eaters; (3) what are the differences in lupine consumption between cows that had crooked calves and those that had normal calves. (4) What management strategies can be implemented to reduce calf losses in this region? Native cows will be used from local ranches where lupine-induced crooked calf disease is endemic. 2. How serious is the problem?
Why does it matter? Lupine-induced "crooked calf disease" causes large economic losses to livestock producers in the scablands region of Washington State. In 1997 over 4000 calves died or were destroyed because of lupine-induced crooked calf disease. Additionally, cows were heavily culled and the numbers of difficult births requiring veterinary assistance dramatically increased with relatively heavy cow losses. Losses were estimated to be over 1.7 million dollars in a Adams County Washington alone in 1997. Using an economic multiplier, the loss to this rural county could be estimated at 4 to 5 times higher. 3. How does it relate to the national Program(s) and National Program Component(s) to which it has been assigned? Program 108, Food Safety and Program 103, Animal Health: The CRIS titled "Livestock Poisoning by Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids and Other Hepatotoxic and Teratogenic Plants" is currently assigned to the Food Safety, 108 and Animal Health 103 programs. Lupine research is
an important component of this CRIS. Research objectives include reducing calf losses, improving rangeland conditions and providing management strategies for ranchers in the Channel Scablands of Eastern Washington. Feed safety including avoidance of poisonous plants translates into healthier animals, better quality products for consumers and an enhanced level of food safety and quality. 4. What was your most significant accomplishment this past year? Three studies were started on the Channel Scablands of Washington State to evaluate what factors (environmental, forage quality, phenological stage of lupine, or cow body condition) influence cows to graze lupine plants. Grazing studies completed in 2001 and nearly complete in 2002 determined that cattle begin to graze lupine when other forages become mature and dry or when those forages are depleted from the plant community. Plant samples collected from different ranches and various regions of eastern Washington from 2000 and 2001
were analyzed for teratogenic alkaloids. Critical analysis to determine low, medium and high risk pastures is being done based on those samples. Samples were collected in 2002 but analysis is not complete. Using this information we now know which lupine species are teratogenic and initially which pastures are high risk. Lactating cows were fed Lupinus leucophyllus at Washington State University. Extraction and analytical protocols were developed in our laboratory for analysis of lupine alkaloids in milk. Ssignificant levels of teratogenic alkaloids were detected in the blood and milk of cows fed L. leucophyllus and absorption and elimination profiles determined in blood and milk. There is little information on the effects of body condition (thin vs. fat cows) on ingestion and metabolism of toxic plants. Grazing trials in Washington State with fat and thin cows indicated that thin cattle initially ate more lupine than did fat animals. Eventually all animals ate substantial
quantities of lupine, but thin animals ate more lupine at times, thus we believe the risk of intoxication is particularly high for thin cows compared to cattle with higher body condition. Earlier cooperative research with the University of Idaho at the Dubois Sheep Experiment Station showed that thin sheep more rapidly absorbed toxic alkaloids than did fat sheep, and conversely thin sheep showed slower elimination of alkaloids compared to fat animals. This strongly suggests that toxicokinetics of the teratogenic alkaloids may be significantly different based on animal body condition. 5. Describe your major accomplishments over the life of the project, including their predicted or actual impact? The major teratogenic alkaloids were isolated, characterized and identified in many lupine species. In the spring of 2001, native cows were selected for the grazing studies, body condition study and alkaloid disposition study. Cows for the grazing study were selected based on weather they
had crooked calves in the spring or normal calves. A pasture with moderate stands of lupine was fenced with electric fencing. Cows are being monitored for forage selection and bites counts recorded and compared between "lupine eaters" verse non "lupine eaters". Data as to when cows start eating lupine and conditions of weather, forage availability and other factors influencing grazing behavior is being recorded. For the body condition study, cows have been preconditioned and are grazing in the lupine pasture. Comparison of lupine ingestion between cows in high body condition versus low body condition is being recorded. The alkaloid disposition study will begin later in the fall of 2001. 6. What do you expect to accomplish, year by year, over the next 3 years? Over the next 3 years we expect to evaluate why pregnant cow graze lupine plants in the scablands of Washington State. Develop management strategies to reduce calf losses from the teratogenic effects of lupines. Year 2003:
Catastrophic losses occurred to cattle producers in the Channel Scablands in Eastern Washington State in 1997. We believe there are environmental factors such that predictions can be made to assist in avoiding subsequent catastrophic losses. Therefore, grazing studies will continue to evaluate the environmental conditions, stage of plant growth and animal factors when cows begin to graze lupine. Plant sampling will continue to determine relative alkaloid content, especially anagyrine (the primary teratogen) in plant parts and in different regions of Eastern Washington. Cows in high and low body condition will be fed three common lupines from Eastern Washington to compare alkaloid absorption and elimination profiles. Blood, urine and feces will be analyzed. Year 2004: Grazing studies will continue to evaluate the environmental conditions, stage of plant growth and animal factors involved to influence grazing of lupines. Grazing studies will be done using different pastures to
determine if cattle graze lupines differently depending on location, forage availability or lupine species. Further plant samples will be collected and analyzed for alkaloid profile and relative concentration. Alkaloid analyses will be completed for samples collected in 2003. Year 2005: Continue grazing studies to evaluate when cattle start to graze lupines in the Channel scablands of Eastern Washington. Continue plant sampling for alkaloid comparisons. Pen studies and feeding trials will be done to evaluate alkaloid disposition in the fetal compartment. Lupine alkaloid-induced fetotoxicity will be evaluated using ultrasound and blood samples. 7. What technologies have been transferred and to whom? When is the technology likely to become available to the end user (industry, farmer other scientist)? What are the constraints, if known, to the adoption durability of the technology? Information about alkaloid content, susceptible stages of gestation and relative risk of grazing in
specific pastures has been transferred to extension agents and ranchers through meetings, phone conversations and written recommendations. Many management options are currently available based on available knowledge about which alkaloids in the plant are a threat, susceptible stages of gestation, effective herbicides and management techniques to reduce losses. 8. List your most important publications and presentations, and articles written about your work (NOTE: this does not replace your review publications which are listed below) Research results on lupine grazing studies and toxicology were presented to ranchers of the Adams County WA Cattlemans Association on June 18, 2002 in Ritzeville, WA. Discussions were presented by Dr. Lynn F. James, Dr. James A. Pfister, Dr. Michael H. Ralphs from the Poisonous Plant Research Lab, Dr. Clive Gay and Dr. Ernie Motteram from WSU and Dr. Karen Launchbaugh from the University of Idaho.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Pfister, J.A., Provenza, F.D., Panter, K.E., Stegelmeier, B.L. and Launchbaugh, K.L. Risk management to reduce livestock losses from toxic plants. Journal Range Management, 2002, v. 55, p. 291-300.
- Panter, K.E., James, L.F., Gardner, D.R., Ralphs, M.H., Pfister, J.A., Stegelmeier, B.L. and Lee, S.T. Influence of managment strategies on reproductive losses to poisonous plants. Journal Range Management, 2002, v. 55, p. 301-308.
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Progress 10/01/00 to 09/30/01
Outputs
1. What major problem or issue is being resolved and how are you resolving it?
Locoweed (species of Astragalus and Oxytropis) ingestion causes reproductive dysfunction in livestock. Swainsonine the toxin in locoweeds was isolated and characterized in the early 1980's. This research is designed to evaluate the effects of swainsonine on oocyte maturation, fertilization and embryo growth and development using in vitro maturation (IVM), in vitro fertilization (IVF) and in vitro culture (IVC) techniques.
2. How serious is the problem? Why does it matter?
The economic viability of the livestock industry is dependant on the reproductive success of the animals. Locoweeds are toxic plants that grow on many desert and mountain rangelands in the western United States. The geographical range of the locoweeds is broad, nationally and internationally, and accounts for large regional and national economic losses to the livestock industry. Numerous catastrophic losses from reproductive failure and overt poisonings have been reported in sheep, cattle and horses. The largest locoweed losses are associated with reproductive problems. Locoweed is an important cause of reproductive failure.
3. How does it relate to the National Program(s) and National Component(s)?
Program 108, Food Safety: The locoweed CRIS has been assigned to the food safety program, 108. Safe feeds for livestock translates into healthier animals, better quality products for consumers and an enhanced level of food safety and quality. Program 103, Animal Health: Forty percent of the CRIS has been assigned to the animal health program, 103. This research has provided information about the effects of swainsonine (locoweed toxin) on reproduction in livestock. This information will assist veterinarians in the diagnosis of reproductive diseases associated with diet and poisonous plants. Question 4: This report serves to document research conducted under a cooperative agreement between ARS and Utah State University. Additional details of research can be found in the report for the parent project 5428- 32000-008-00D Astragalus and Oxytropis Poisoning in livestock. Swainsonine (concentrations from 0.08 to 6.4ug/ml in culture media) did not inhibit maturation of oocytes, did not
decrease cleavage rates and did not inhibit growth and development of embryos in culture. This research demonstrated that the effects of locoweeds on conception and early embryonic development in sheep and cattle probably result from maternal toxicity and not direct cyto-toxicity to the oocyte or embryo. Thus, the effects of locoweed on oocyte or embryo viability is secondary to the effects of locoweed on the maternal pituitary/adrenal/gonadal axis. Basic information about early embryo growth and development was increased. Additionally, superovulation procedures and IVM, IVF and IVC techniques were improved.
4. What were the most significant accomplishments this past year?
5. Describe the major accomplishments over the life of the project including their predicted or actual impact.
Oocyte maturation, cleavage rates and embryo growth and development were not inhibited when cultured in the presence of swainsonine at concentrations ranging from 0.08 to 6.4ug/ml. Swainsonine cultured blastocyst stage embryos were transferred to recipient heifers and pregnancies progressed as expected and calves were normal at birth. Subsequently, the swainsonine calves were allowed to grow to maturity and have successfully produced offspring IVM, IVF and IVC techniques were improved and will be applied to other natural toxins to screen for possible cyto-toxic effects. Questions 6:
6. What do you expect to accomplish, year by year, over the next 3 years?
7. What science and/or technologies have been transferred and to whom? When is the science and/or technology likely to become available to the end user (industry, farmer, other scientists)? What are the constraints if known, to the adoption & durability of the technology product?
The use of IVM, IVF and IVC techniques are currently available to scientists. This method provides an in vitro technique to screen toxins for embryo-toxicity. This technology is also important because current societal attitudes demand that we reduce the numbers and use of live animals in research and develop in vitro methods for toxicology testing. This technique has the potential to screen natural toxins or man-made toxins with potential reproductive consequences and will provide new information about mechanisms of action.
8. List your most important publications in the popular press (no abstracts) and presentations to non-scientific organizations and articles written about your work (NOTE: this does not replace your peer-reviewed publications which are listed below)
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Wang, S., Panter, K.E., Holyoak, G.R., Liu, Y., Molyneux, R.J., Evans, R.C. and Bunch T.D. The development of bovine preimplantation embryos treated with swainsonine in vitro. Proceedings, Western Section, ASAS 50:93-96. Wang, S., Panter, K.E., Holyoak, G.R., Molyneux, R.J., Liu, G., Evans, R.C. and Bunch, T.D. Embryo development and viability of bovine preplacentation embryos treated with swainsonine in vitro. Animal Reproduction Science
- 56:19-29.
- Wangs, S. Panter, K.E., Gardner, D.R., Evans, R.C. and Bunch, T.D. In vitro development of bovine embryos treated with isocupressic acid (ICA), a pine needle abortifacient toxin. Proceedings, Western Section, ASAS 52:436-438, 2001.
- Wang, S., Panter, K.E., Evans, R.C. and Bunch, T.D. Bovine embryo development in vitro in the medium containing pokeweed mitogen or phytohemagglutinin. Proceedings, Western Section, ASAS 52:440-442, 2001.
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