Retronecine – CAS 480-85-3

Retronecine (CAS 480-85-3) is a pyrrolizidine alkaloid (PA) isolated from the Senecio genus. Retronecine can be present in honey made from the nectar of the plant and has become a compound of interest for monitoring Pyrrolizidine alkaloid (PA) content in honey and related products.

PAs are secondary metabolites in plants; about half of these alkaloids exhibit toxicity and carcinogenicity. Pyrrolizidine alkaloids poison grazing animals and domestic livestock through contaminated plants or feed. These alkaloids then poison humans through contaminated food (e.g., grains, honey, and milk), herbal medicine, and supplements. The plant is also toxic to livestock, and considered and undesirable wildflower.

Find the entire collection of pyrrolizidine alkaloids here.