What physiological function do cardenolides, identified in Ornithogalum, directly affect?
Answer
Heart function
The hazardous compounds known as cardenolides, found in *Ornithogalum* species, are precisely categorized as potent cardiac glycosides. This specific chemical classification immediately defines their primary target system within a body that has ingested them. Cardiac glycosides are known to directly influence and alter the proper functioning of the heart muscle. Due to this capacity to disrupt cardiac rhythm and strength, exposure necessitates immediate professional medical consultation, especially when dealing with potential poisoning events in humans or pets, as they are addressing a direct impact on cardiovascular stability.
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