Pirrolízissel

Pirrolízissel, also known as pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), is a group of naturally occurring compounds found primarily in certain plants within the families Boraginaceae, Asteraceae, and Fabaceae. These alkaloids are characterized by their bicyclic structure containing a pyrrolizidine ring, which distinguishes them from other classes of alkaloids.

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids are most commonly associated with plants such as comfrey (*Symphytum officinale*), tansy ragwort (*Senecio jacobaea*), and heliotrope (*Heliotropium europaeum*). Some of these plants have been traditionally used in herbal medicine, though their safety has been questioned due to their potential toxicity. Consumption of pyrrolizidine alkaloids can lead to liver damage, including veno-occlusive disease, fibrosis, and even cirrhosis in severe cases. The toxicity arises from their metabolic activation in the liver, where they form reactive intermediates that bind to cellular proteins and DNA, causing cellular dysfunction.

The presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids in food and herbal supplements has raised concerns among regulatory agencies worldwide. Contamination of honey, grains, and medicinal herbs with these compounds has been documented, particularly in regions where affected plants grow wild. As a result, many countries have imposed restrictions on the use of plants containing high levels of PAs in dietary supplements or traditional remedies.

Research into pyrrolizidine alkaloids focuses on their detection, quantification, and mitigation in food and herbal products. Analytical techniques such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry are commonly employed to identify and measure these compounds. Efforts are also underway to develop safer alternatives in herbal medicine and to educate consumers about the risks associated with pyrrolizidine alkaloid-containing plants.