The neurotoxic amino acid in grass pea that can cause neurolathyrism is ODAP.
ODAP stands for β-N-oxalyl-L-α,β-diaminopropionic acid, also called BOAA. It occurs especially in the seeds of grass pea (Lathyrus sativus), a drought-resistant legume cultivated for food and animal feed. The compound acts as a glutamate analogue and is associated with damage to motor neurons.
Neurolathyrism can develop when grass pea becomes a major food source for an extended period, particularly during famine or drought. The resulting disorder is characterized by weakness, muscle wasting and often irreversible paralysis of the lower limbs. This is distinct from other forms of lathyrism caused by different toxins and affecting bones or connective tissue.
Grass pea remains valuable because it can produce reliable yields under harsh conditions. Soaking, boiling, fermentation and dietary variety can reduce exposure to ODAP, but the plant should not be confused with sweet pea, which is associated with a different toxin.