1. [Ricin--a therapeutic agent and a biological weapon].
- Author
-
Høiseth G and Olsnes S
- Subjects
- Animals, Humans, Ribosomes drug effects, Antineoplastic Agents chemistry, Antineoplastic Agents therapeutic use, Biological Warfare, Bioterrorism, Chemical Warfare Agents chemistry, Chemical Warfare Agents poisoning, Chemical Warfare Agents toxicity, Ricin chemistry, Ricin poisoning, Ricin therapeutic use, Ricin toxicity
- Abstract
Lately there have been several incidents with the plant protein ricin, for instance in the capitol building of the American Senate in February 2004. By focusing on this toxin, the media have spread a fear that ricin will be used in terrorist acts. In this article, we want to give a review of the qualities and potentials of the use of ricin. Ricin is a highly toxic plant protein that is lethal in small doses; it kills cells by inactivating ribosomes but has potential for medical use.
- Published
- 2005