Understanding Brunfelsamidine: A Cat-Toxic Toxin
Chemical Structure & Breakdown
Brunfelsamidine is an alkaloid toxin found in plants of the Brunfelsia genus, commonly known as Yesterday-Today-and-Tomorrow. Structurally, brunfelsamidine is a nitrogen-containing alkaloid that interferes with neurotransmitter function in the central nervous system, particularly affecting gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, which are critical for regulating neural excitability.
At the cellular level, brunfelsamidine inhibits the action of GABA, a key inhibitory neurotransmitter. This inhibition leads to increased neural activity, resulting in excitatory symptoms such as tremors and seizures. In cats, ingestion of plants containing brunfelsamidine can cause rapid neurological disturbances.
Toxin Metabolism
In cats, brunfelsamidine is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract after the ingestion of Brunfelsia plants. Once in the bloodstream, it acts on the nervous system by blocking GABA receptors, which leads to an overstimulation of neurons and abnormal neural activity. Cats are highly sensitive to this type of toxin, and even small amounts can cause significant symptoms.
Symptoms of brunfelsamidine toxicity in cats include muscle tremors, seizures, hyperactivity, drooling, vomiting, and in severe cases, respiratory distress or death. Immediate veterinary care is crucial, and treatment typically involves decontamination, controlling seizures with anticonvulsants, and providing supportive care such as fluids and oxygen therapy to manage the effects on the nervous system.
Additional Plants or Items Containing the Toxin
- Brunfelsia spp. (Yesterday-Today-and-Tomorrow)
- Solanum spp. (Some related nightshade species)
These plants contain brunfelsamidine, an alkaloid that can cause severe neurological symptoms in cats if ingested.
