AIIMS Bhubaneswar Detects Neurotoxin BMAA in Ancient Cycad Plants in Odisha

Researchers have detected the presence of BMAA (β-N-methylamino-L-alanine), a potential neurotoxin, in several species of ancient Cycad plants growing in Odisha’s forests, says AIIMS Bhubaneswar.

• The finding has raised public health concerns, as some local communities still consume cycad-based foods, including pitha (a traditional rice-based cake), as part of customary diets and rituals.

Health Implications

• BMAA is a neurotoxic amino acid associated with neurodegenerative diseases such as:
  • Parkinsonism
  • Motor neuron disease
  • Dementia
• Researchers warn that long-term dietary exposure to such compounds could increase the risk of neurological disorders among local populations.

About Cycad Plants

• Cycads are ancient gymnosperms that coexisted with dinosaurs more than 300 million years ago.
• Although now commonly used as ornamental plants, cycads are known to contain several toxic compounds, including:
  • Cycacin
  • BMAA (β-N-methylamino-L-alanine)
  • MAM (methylazoxymethanol)

Global Context

• Similar cases of neurotoxicity linked to cycad consumption have been reported in:
  • The Guam Peninsula (USA)
  • The Kii Peninsula (Japan)
• In these regions, traditional use of cycad-based foods has been associated with higher incidence of neurodegenerative diseases.

Significance of the Study

• The detection marks an important step in understanding plant-linked neurotoxicity in India.
• AIIMS Bhubaneswar’s findings underscore the need for:
  • Public awareness on cycad toxicity.
  • Further research on the health impacts of traditional food practices.
  • Policy measures to ensure safe consumption in affected regions.

Source: DD