Ricin - Chemical Structure And Pathological Pathway, Ricin Poisoning, Ricin Production And Use As A Biological Weapon
causes protein death
Ricin is a highly toxic protein that is derived from the bean of the castor plant (Ricinus communis). The toxin causes cell death by inactivating ribosomes, which are responsible for protein synthesis. Ricin can be produced in a liquid, crystal or powdered forms and it can be inhaled, ingested, or injected. It causes fever, cough, weakness, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea and dehydration and death. There is no cure for Ricin poisoning, and medical treatment is simply supportive.
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Ricin poisoning can occur by dermal (skin) exposure, aerosol inhalation, ingestion, or injections and the symptoms vary depending on the route of exposure. If Ricin comes in contact with the skin, it is unlikely to be fatal, unless combined with a solvent such as DMSO. Aerosol inhalation of Ricin can cause symptoms within four to eight hours. Fever, chest tightness, cough, nausea, and joint pain m…
Ricin comes from castor beans, which produce castor oil, a component of brake fluid and hydraulic fluid. One million tons of castor beans are processed each year and the resulting waste mash contains 5–10% Ricin. The 66,000 Dalton protein can be purified from the mash using chromatography. Once purified, Ricin is a very stable molecule, able to withstand changes in environmental conditions.…
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