Ricin as a Biothreat Agent: From Molecular Mechanisms to Clinical Toxicology, Forensic Aspects, and Risk Mitigation.

Ricin, a potent ribosome‐inactivating protein derived from the seeds of Ricinus communis L., represents a significant threat in the context of biological warfare and terrorism due to its high toxicity, ease of extraction, and lack of a specific antidote. This review provides a comprehensive examinat...

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Publicado en:BioMed Research International Vol. 2026; pp. 1 - 17
Autores principales: Pohanka, Miroslav, Gurumallesh Prabu, Poorani
Formato: pictorial review tables/charts Journal Article
Publicado: Wiley-Blackwell 5/16/2026
Acceso en línea:Ver este registro en EBSCOhost
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      dt: 5/16/2026
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      pub: Wiley-Blackwell
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        10.1155/bmri/5594252
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        atl: Ricin as a Biothreat Agent: From Molecular Mechanisms to Clinical Toxicology, Forensic Aspects, and Risk Mitigation.
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        au:
          Pohanka, Miroslav
          Gurumallesh Prabu, Poorani
        affil: Military Faculty of Medicine, , University of Defence, , Hradec Králové, Czech Republic, unob.cz
      sug:
        subj:
          Plant Proteins Poisoning
          Toxicology
          Forensic Medicine
          Containment of Biohazards
          Risk Management
          Biochemistry
          Plants, Medicinal
          Plants, Toxic
          Bioterrorism
          Biological Warfare
          Plants
          Emergencies
          Disaster Planning
      ab: Ricin, a potent ribosome‐inactivating protein derived from the seeds of Ricinus communis L., represents a significant threat in the context of biological warfare and terrorism due to its high toxicity, ease of extraction, and lack of a specific antidote. This review provides a comprehensive examination of ricin's biochemical structure, toxicological mechanisms, and clinical manifestations, alongside its historical and potential use as a weapon. The paper explores the global distribution and utility of the castor bean plant, outlines the molecular basis of ricin's cytotoxicity, and evaluates current medical and technological countermeasures. Furthermore, it assesses international legal frameworks and policy instruments aimed at mitigating the misuse of biological agents. Case studies of ricin‐related incidents underscore the toxin's appeal to both state and nonstate actors, highlighting the need for enhanced surveillance, public awareness, and interdisciplinary preparedness. The findings emphasize the dual‐use dilemma posed by ricin and advocate for sustained international cooperation to address emerging biothreats.
      pubtype: Academic Journal
      doctype:
        pictorial
        review
        tables/charts
        Journal Article
      ougenre: Article
    language: English
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