Lathyrism from Khesari dal can be prevented by which process
**Question:** Lathyrism from Khesari dal can be prevented by which process
**Core Concept:** Lathyrism is a neurological disorder caused by consuming the toxic amino acid, Ξ²-N-oxalyl-L-amino acid (ODP), present in Khesari dal (Lathyrus sativus). It mimics symptoms of cerebral palsy and paralysis.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** The correct answer is prevention through alkaloid degradation. Alkaloids are nitrogenous compounds found in plants that can cause various toxic effects in humans. In the case of Lathyrism, the toxic compound is Ξ²-N-oxalyl-L-amino acid (ODP). When consumed, ODP is converted into Ξ±-N-oxalyl-L-amino acid (ODA) and then further to Ξ±-N-oxalylglycine (OG), which accumulates in the central nervous system (CNS) and damages neurons, leading to neurological symptoms.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. **Inhibition of alkaloid synthesis:** This process is not directly related to preventing Lathyrism since the toxic compound has already formed.
B. **Alkaloid detoxification:** This process aims to remove toxins from the body, but since the toxic compound has already entered the body, detoxification is not a suitable prevention method.
C. **Neuroprotective agents:** These are substances that protect the nervous system from damage. While neuroprotective agents may be useful in treating Lathyrism, they are not directly involved in preventing the development of the disease.
D. **Neurotransmitter synthesis inhibition:** This process targets neurotransmitter synthesis, which is unrelated to preventing Lathyrism as the toxic compounds have already entered the body.
**Correct Answer:**
To prevent Lathyrism, one should focus on **alkaloid degradation**. This process involves the breakdown of alkaloids in the body, preventing them from entering the central nervous system and causing damage. By promoting alkaloid degradation, the toxic compounds are eliminated from the body before they can cause neurological symptoms.