FORMATION OF METHYLHYDRAZINE FROM ACETALDEHYDE N-METHYL-N-FORMYLHYDRAZONE, A COMPONENT OF GYROMITRA-ESCULENTA

  • 1 January 1977
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 37  (9) , 3458-3460
Abstract
Gyromitrin, acetaldehyde-N-methyl-N-formylhydrazone, is a toxin present in edible wild mushroom G. esculenta. At 37.degree. C under different acidic conditions (pH 1-3), mimicking the milieu of human stomach, gyromitrin is converted to methylhydrazine, a known tumor inducer in mice and hamsters, through an intermediate, N-methyl-N-formylhydrazine. Methylhydrazine is also formed in the mouse stomach after p.o. [oral] administration of gyromitrin. These findings imply that consumption of G. esculenta could present a carcinogenic, as well as an acutely toxic, health hazard.

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