Ricin molecule, artwork C017 / 3649
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Ricin molecule, artwork C017 / 3649
Ricin molecule. Computer artwork showing the structure of a molecule of the toxic protein ricin. Ricin comprises two entwined amino acid chains; A (yellow) and B (blue). The A-chain is toxic, inhibiting protein synthesis in cells and causing cell death. It is carried into cells by the non-toxic B-chain, which is able to bind to the cell surface. Ricin is derived from the seeds of the castor oil plant (Ricinus communis), making it easy to be used as a toxin by bioterrorists. Less than a milligram is enough to kill an adult. Inhaling ricin causes coughing, pulmonary oedema and death. If ingested, it causes gastroenteritis, liver and kidney damage and death from circulatory failure. There is no antidote
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9260671
© RAMON ANDRADE 3DCIENCIA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
A Chain Acids Amino Acid Amino Acids B Chain Bioterror Bioterrorism Catalyst Catalytic Cellular Chain Chemical Agent Composition Compound Compounds Deadly Dimer Enzymatic Enzyme Glycosidase Heterodimer Heterodimeric Inactivating Inactivator Inhibiting Inhibition Inhibitor Lectin Lethal Macromolecule Molecules Organic Poison Poisonous Protein Synthesis Proteomics Ricin Ricinus Communis Secondary Structure Structural Terrorism Tertiary Structure Toxic Toxin Weapon Biochemical Biochemistry Molecular Model Protein
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate structure of the ricin molecule, a toxic protein that poses a significant threat in the realm of bioterrorism. Created through computer artwork, this image vividly depicts the two entwined amino acid chains - A (yellow) and B (blue) - that comprise ricin. While the non-toxic B-chain facilitates cellular entry by binding to the cell surface, it is the toxic A-chain that inhibits protein synthesis within cells, leading to their demise. Derived from castor oil plant seeds, ricin is easily weaponized due to its lethal properties. Astonishingly, less than a milligram of this substance can prove fatal for an adult. Inhalation of ricin causes coughing, pulmonary edema, and ultimately death; ingestion results in gastroenteritis and severe damage to vital organs such as liver and kidneys. The absence of an antidote further emphasizes the grave consequences associated with exposure to this deadly compound. Its structural composition reveals its biochemical nature as a potent inhibitor capable of disrupting normal cellular function. Through this visually striking illustration, artist Ramon Andrade from 3DCIENCIA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY highlights both the beauty and danger inherent in molecular structures like ricin. It serves as a reminder not only of our ability to comprehend complex biological systems but also underscores society's ongoing battle against bioterrorism threats.
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