Assessment of neurotoxicity of monocrotaline, an alkaloid extracted from Crotalaria retusa in astrocyte/neuron co-culture system

► Alkaloid monocrotalina (MCT) from Crotalaria retusa, is cytotoxic to cortical neurons and astrocytes. ► Neuron/glial cell in co-cultures MCT changes the expression of cytoskeletal components of neurons (βIII-tubulin) and astrocytes (GFAP). ► MCT-induced GSH depletion and cytotoxicity were reversed when cytochrome P450 enzyme system was inhibited, suggesting involvement of P450 system metabolism on alkaloid's neurotoxicity.