Echiumine N-oxide – CAS 685554-68-1

Echiumine N-oxide (CAS 685554-68-1) is the oxidized form the alkaloid Echmidine, which is one of 3 C-7 isomers that coeluted in a cluster that was previously incorrectly assumed to comprise only Echimidine. Echimidine and its isomers are pyrrolizidine alkaloids isolated from Viper’s Bugloos (Echium plantagineum). The alkaloids exist in both their reduced and oxidized form in the plant.

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) are a class of naturally occurring plant toxins that contain a pyrrolizidine structure. PAs are produced by plants as a defense mechanism against herbivores. They make up the largest class of naturally occurring alkaloids and are found in a vast number of plant species. PAs may cause adverse health effects when consumed at high levels, with indications for hepatoxicity.

Echiumine N-oxide is part of a set of pyrrolizidine alkaloid standards. Take a look at the rest of the pyrrolizidine alkaloid reference standards we have in stock.