The left rotating (C8-(R) configuration) and the right rotating (C8-(S) configuration) epimers are named ergopeptines and ergopeptinines, respectively. These epimers differ in biological and physicochemical properties. C8-(R)-isomers (-ines) are biologically active, whereas the C8-(S)-isomers (-inines) are inactive ( Krska & Crews, 2008). Both forms are found together in naturally contaminated samples. The conversion of the -ine to the -inine isomers occurs rapidly in aqueous solutions ( Komarova & Tolkachev, 2001), and can reverse in some aqueous and organic solvents ( Crews, Anderson, Rees, & Krska, 2009). It is therefore important to consider both epimers when the ergot alkaloid contamination level of a cereal or cereal product has to be determined.