The AACT toxicology question of the day for today: The yew (Taxus baccata) is a commonly found conifer. Which toxins are contained in this plant, and what specific plant parts contain these toxins? Finally, what is the mechanism for toxicity produced by the toxin found in this plant? Scroll down for the answer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The most important toxins contained in Taxus baccata are taxine A and taxine B. All green or dry parts of the tree, except for the berry or aril, contain taxines. These taxines are toxic alkaloids and are blockers of cardiac sodium and calcium channels. (Panzer C. et al. Extracorporeal life support in a severe Taxus baccata poisoning. 2010 Clin Tox 48 (5):463-465)
Posted on: Wed, 31 Jul 2013 12:20:52 +0000
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