Ricin and Other Toxalbumins Publisher



Ataei M^{1, 2} ; Shirazi FM³ ; Mehrpour O⁴ Show Affiliations
Source: Encyclopedia of Toxicology# Fourth Edition: Volume 1-9 Published:2023

Abstract

Ricin is the most well-known toxalbumin, a common by-product of caster bean oil production. Ricin, the heterodimeric ribosome inhibiting water-soluble glycoprotein, is highly toxic and can cause cell death by inhibiting protein synthesis. Because of its high level of toxicity, it can be used as a chemical weapon (category B). Signs and symptoms of poisoning differ based on the status and route of exposure. Possible routes of exposure include cutaneous, mucosal, gastrointestinal, inhalational, and parenteral (intravenous or intramuscular). Among gastrointestinal exposures occur most commonly. If beans are consumed, chewing is required to break the shell and expose the toxin. However, ricin absorption through inhalation and parenteral routes is more than ingestion. Symptoms of severe exposure include delayed gastroenteritis followed by delirium, seizures, coma, and death. Clinical management of ricin poisoning is mainly supportive, as no antidote is available. Therefore, future hopes for treatment are recommended, like passive immunization, co-administration of antitoxin antibodies with immunomodulatory drugs, Small-molecule compounds that interfere directly with the toxin, and vaccination. Also, comprehensive untargeted urine screening is reliable for detecting ricin in intoxicated patients. Overall, ricin is one of the highly toxic toxins for which no antidote is available. Several studies should be done to find ways of better poisoning management. © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.