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Further characterize the clinical, physiologic, morphologic and immunologic alterations of Astragalus and Oxytropis poisoning. Determine which lesions are irreversible; synthesize swainsonine-protein conjugates for immunologic diagnostic techniques and vaccines; describe dose/response relationships of reproductive dysfunction; determine plant, animal, environmental,and management factors that influence consumption of various locoweed species, and develop management strategies to reduce loss.
The immunopathology of locoweed poisoning will be further characterized and described using in vivo and in vitro immunologic analyses. Diagnostic techniques will be developed including glycosylation of specific serum proteins and ELISA technology to detect swainsonine in both plant and animal tissue. Immunogenic conjugates will be evaluated as potential vaccines. T effects of locoweed poisoning on deer and elk will be described. Reproductive dysfunction will be evaluated using hormone analysis, histochemistry techniques, and ultrasound. Locoweed population cycles in various location will be described. Conditions under which livestock consume locoweed will evaluated and management strategies will be developed to reduce loss. This information will be used to improve livestock production and enhance rural economies.