Page 209 - Phytochemistry 2 (06-PG 605)
P. 209
Gossypol enantiomers
Gossypol toxicity:
The presence of six phenolic hydroxyl groups and two
aldehyde groups allows gossypol to react with many cell
macromolecules
Gossypol is toxic to erythrocytes, contributing to
the side effect ofhaemolytic anaemia.
other toxicities include respiratory distress, impaired
body weight gain,anorexia, weakness, and death
after several days.
Another important toxic effect of gossypol is its
interference with immunefunction, reducing resistance
to infections and impairing the efficiency of vaccines.
