Vaccines and methods for preventing and treating fescue toxicosis in herbivores

摘要

The present invention provides an immunogenic compound the formula: wherein X is selected from the group consisting of methyl and hydrogen; wherein R1 is a suitable functional group of the lysergic ring; wherein R2 is an immunogenic protein; and wherein Y is a bridge to link R1 to R2. The present invention also provides purified polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies, specifically reactive with the immunogenic compound and reactive with the lysergic ring of ergopeptine and clavine alkaloids. The present invention further provides an antibody which is an anti-idiotype of the monoclonal antibody. Also provided are methods of prevention and treatment of fescue toxicosis utilizing the immunogenic compounds and antibodies of the present invention.