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Forensic Toxicology
Published in: Forensic Toxicology 2/2019

01-07-2019 | Intoxication | Original Article

Species identification of white false hellebore (Veratrum album subsp. oxysepalum) by loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP)

Authors: Hitomi S. Kikkawa, Masako Aragane, Kouichiro Tsuge

Published in: Forensic Toxicology | Issue 2/2019

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Abstract

Purpose

Food poisoning is frequently caused by the accidental ingestion of toxic plants with strong morphological similarities to edible plants. The plant, false helleborine (Veratrum album), is commonly involved in such incidents. Cases of poisoning by toxic plants require rapid and accurate identification for appropriate medical treatment or forensic investigation in the event of death. However, morphological examinations require experience in systematic botany, and chemical analysis of natural compounds can be challenging. This study aimed to develop a sensitive, rapid, and specific method for identifying V. album and V. stamineum.

Methods

We developed and optimized a loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) detection method. Total genomic DNA was extracted from approximately 10 mg (dry weight) of leaf from 26 specimens comprising the target plants, allied plants, and other causative plants of poisoning. These samples were analyzed the LAMP assay, and mixed samples, cooked samples, and simulated gastric contents were also tested.

Results

The limit of detection of our LAMP assay was 0.08 ng of target DNA, and the assay was specific to V. album and V. stamineum. The LAMP assay could be performed in approximately 30 min. V. album was also successfully identified in mixed samples, cooked samples, and simulated gastric contents. In addition, the LAMP assay signal could be effectively assessed with the naked eye.

Conclusions

The present LAMP assay is a highly sensitive, rapid, and specific method for identifying V. album and V. stamineum.
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Metadata
Title
Species identification of white false hellebore (Veratrum album subsp. oxysepalum) by loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP)
Authors
Hitomi S. Kikkawa
Masako Aragane
Kouichiro Tsuge
Publication date
01-07-2019
Publisher
Springer Singapore
Keyword
Intoxication
Published in
Forensic Toxicology / Issue 2/2019
Print ISSN: 1860-8965
Electronic ISSN: 1860-8973
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11419-018-00461-y

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