Identification and degradation of mimosine, a toxic compound in Leucaena leucocephala de wit

Leucaena leucocephala is known for being a shrub that generates nutritional benefits for animal husbandry in the world. Nevertheless, its consumption has been limited due to antinutritional factors such as mimosine, a toxic that exists in the plant. This review compiles studies by different authors who identified and characterized bacteria found in the rumen and in the rhizosphere of the plants, capable of degrading mimosine and its degradation products, 3,4- and 2,3-dihydroxypyridone (3,4 and 2,3 DHP). Mimosine (non-protein aminoacid which is found in L. leucocephala leaves and seeds) degradation by bacteria is a fundamental factor in the protection of animals when consuming leucaena. Mimosine and its degradation products have been used in the rhizosphere by the strain TAL1145 of Rhizobium, as carbon and nitrogen source; while at rumen level bacteria such as Synergistes jonesii can degrade it. Recent studies have proven that other rumen bacteria, like Streptococcus lutetiensis have the capacity to degrade this compound. Such advances will take the species L. leucocephala to another knowledge level, in order to search for higher efficiency and safety in its use for animal feeding. Keywords: animal feeding, Streptococcus lutetiensis, Synergistes jonesii.