Ricin

Ricin is one of the most toxic poisons obtained from plant sources. It is produced from the seeds of castor oil (Ricinus communis) and can cause serious dysfunction of organs and systems of the human body.

Ricin has the ability to inhibit protein synthesis by attaching to the surface of cells, which leads to their death. This mechanism of action of the poison is the basis of its toxicity. When ricin enters the human body, it can cause various pathological conditions such as gastroenteritis, hepatic congestion, jaundice, and acute cardiovascular failure (collapse).

Even a small amount of ricin entering the body can cause death. Ricin is most toxic when administered intravenously or inhaled in the form of tiny particles. For most organisms, as little as 1 mcg/kg body weight can be a lethal dose.

Despite the dangers associated with ricin, research is currently being conducted into its use in medicine. It may be effective in treating some types of lymphoma if applied directly to tumor tissue. This use of poison avoids damage to healthy cells.

There are also measures to prevent ricin poisoning. These include the use of gloves and protective masks when working with the plant, as well as careful handling of all materials associated with the production of ricin.

Thus, ricin is one of the most toxic substances obtained from plant sources. It can cause serious dysfunction of organs and systems of the human body and can potentially lead to death. However, when used correctly, ricin can be an effective tool in the fight against certain types of cancer.



Ricin is a powerful biological agent. Ricin is one of the most **dangerous** and powerful toxins in nature. It can kill a person even from a tiny dose of intravenous injection or when tiny particles are inhaled. Ricin is produced from the seeds of the poisonous plant Ricinus Communis, also



**Ricin**

\- a highly toxic substance of protein nature, obtained biologically from poisonous castor bean seeds.\n\n \* Chemical name \RPLC. \\nR - protonated amino acid residue of arginine; \n\nP - peptide group; \nP+ - succinic and glutamic acid residues associated with an arginine residue (according to the “peptidyl peptide” principle). \nL - leucine residue.\n

Contained in castor oil (0.5%), used in the confectionery industry and in medicine; can be isolated from the waste products of roundworms. It is also used in science as antibodies, in various antitoxins. Areas of application: food industry; medicine Use in medicine\nToxic Ricin is excreted through the kidneys and liver. The antidote is rifamycin.