Major Category
Biological Agents
Synonyms
Agent W; Castor Bean Lectin; Ricin (Ricinus communis, seeds); Ricine; Ricins; Ricinus lectin; Ricinus toxin; [ChemIDplus]
Sources/Uses
"Ricin is a poison that can be made from the waste left over from processing castor beans. It can be in the form of a powder, a mist, or a pellet, or it can be dissolved in water or weak acid. It is a stable substance." [CDC]
Comments
"Ricin is a potent biological toxin that is derived from castor beans. Its mechanism of action in the body is inhibition of protein synthesis. Clinical manifestations are dependent on the route of exposure. Ingestion of ricin typically leads to profuse vomiting and diarrhea followed by multisystem organ failure and possibly death within 36 to 72 hours of exposure. Inhalation of ricin typically leads to respiratory distress, fever, and cough followed by the development of pulmonary edema, hypotension, respiratory failure, and possibly death within 36 to 72 hours." [CDC]
Hepatotoxin
Hepatoxic (a) from occupational exposure (secondary effect) or (b) in animal studies or in humans after ingestion
Other Information
No other related information on this agent was found.