In Kesari dhal poisoning due to Lathyrus sativus, the active principle is: NIMHANS 07; MAHE 08; UPSC 14
**Core Concept**
Lathyrus sativus, commonly known as Kesari dhal, contains a toxin that causes neurolathyrism, a condition characterized by spastic paraparesis or paralysis of the lower limbs. The toxin responsible for this condition is a non-protein amino acid.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The active principle in Lathyrus sativus is ODAP (oxalyldiaminopropionic acid), a non-protein amino acid that acts as a glutamate receptor agonist. When ingested, ODAP binds to glutamate receptors in the spinal cord, leading to excessive stimulation of the motor neurons, resulting in spastic paraparesis or paralysis of the lower limbs. This condition is due to the excitotoxicity caused by the overactivation of glutamate receptors.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** β-N-Oxalyl-L-α,β-diaminopropionic acid (β-ODAP) is the correct answer. However, the question might be testing the knowledge of the correct structure or name of the toxin.
* **Option B:** This option is not relevant to the context of Lathyrus sativus poisoning.
* **Option C:** This option might be a distractor to test the student's knowledge of other toxins or conditions.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Lathyrus sativus poisoning is a classic example of neurolathyrism, a condition caused by the consumption of certain legumes that contain ODAP. It is essential to note that the toxin is heat-stable and can be present in the plant even after cooking.
**Correct Answer:** D. ODAP is the correct answer, however, the question doesn't include the correct option D.