Question

A poor farmer with a history of successive crop failure develops progressive spastic paraparesis, signs of upper motor neuron paralysis, and gait instability. Name the toxin responsible for this condition

• A. Aflatoxin
• B. Beta-oxalyl-amino-alanine
• C. Ergot alkaloids
• D. Fusarium toxin

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The condition described—a poor farmer with a history of crop failure developing progressive spastic paraparesis and signs of upper motor neuron paralysis—is related to a specific neurotoxin. The symptoms like spastic paraparesis and gait instability point towards toxicity affecting the central nervous system. Among the options given, Beta-oxalyl-amino-alanine is the correct toxin associated with such a condition.

This toxin is commonly found in a type of pulse called "Lathyrus sativus" or the grass pea, which is sometimes consumed in times of food scarcity, especially during crop failures. Consumption of this pulse over a long period can lead to a neurological disorder known as Lathyrism, which is characterized by the symptoms described—progressive spastic paraparesis and upper motor neuron involvement.

Thus, the toxin responsible for this condition is Beta-oxalyl-amino-alanine.