| Abstract: | We introduce our paper by briefly outlining how we came to the conclusion that neurons in the brain and cells in other tissues can be killed by high intracellular concentrations of calcium ions (Ca(2+)). The life cycle of Claviceps purpurea is then described before theoretical information is drawn upon which indicates that ergot alkaloids can inactivate alpha adrenergic receptors for noradrenaline released from sympathetic nerve terminals. We deduce that inhibition of these receptors by ergot alkaloids leads to an increase in intracellular Ca(2+) concentration which can cause the death of the insulin producing cells of the pancreas. |
