Ricin A-chain, artwork C017 / 3653
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Ricin A-chain, artwork C017 / 3653
Ricin A-chain. Computer artwork showing the enzymatically active A-chain from a molecule of the toxic protein ricin. Ricin comprises two entwined amino acid chains; A (seen here) and B (not shown). 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 9342109
© RAMON ANDRADE 3DCIENCIA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
A Chain Acids Amino Acid Amino Acids 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 Quaternary Structure Ricin Ricinus Communis Structural Terrorism Tertiary Structure Toxic Toxin Weapon Biochemical Biochemistry Molecular Model Protein
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate structure of Ricin A-chain, a toxic protein derived from the seeds of the castor oil plant. The computer artwork vividly depicts the enzymatically active A-chain, which is responsible for inhibiting protein synthesis in cells and ultimately causing cell death. Its lethal nature is further emphasized by its association with bioterrorism, as less than a milligram can be fatal to an adult. The image highlights the complexity of ricin's composition, consisting of two intertwined amino acid chains: A (visible here) and B (not shown). While the non-toxic B-chain facilitates entry into cells by binding to their surfaces, it is the toxic A-chain that wreaks havoc within them. Inhaling ricin leads to coughing, pulmonary edema, and death; ingestion results in gastroenteritis, liver and kidney damage, and circulatory failure. The white background accentuates this deadly molecule's structural beauty while also serving as a reminder of its potential danger. With no known antidote available against ricin poisoning, this artwork serves as a powerful visual representation of both its biochemical potency and its role as a catalyst for cellular destruction. Created by Ramon Andrade from 3DCIENCIA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY, this stunning illustration merges artistry with scientific accuracy to provide viewers with an insight into one of nature's most potent toxins.
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