Ricin molecule, artwork C017 / 3651
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Ricin molecule, artwork C017 / 3651
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 9340595
© 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 toxic protein ricin, depicted through a stunning computer artwork. The image reveals the complex composition of this deadly molecule, consisting of two intertwined amino acid chains - A (yellow) and B (blue). While the A-chain is highly toxic, leading to cell death by inhibiting protein synthesis, it relies on the non-toxic B-chain to enter cells by binding to their surface. Derived from castor oil plant seeds, ricin poses a significant threat as a bioterrorist weapon due to its ease of use. Shockingly, less than a milligram is sufficient to kill an adult. Inhalation of ricin causes severe symptoms such as coughing and pulmonary edema ultimately leading to death. Ingestion results in gastroenteritis along with liver and kidney damage that can lead to circulatory failure. It is crucial to note that no antidote exists for ricin poisoning, further emphasizing its lethal nature. This artwork serves as a reminder of the potential dangers posed by chemical agents like ricin and highlights the importance of understanding their structures and mechanisms. Created by RAMON ANDRADE 3DCIENCIA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY, this visually striking print not only captures the beauty within biochemistry but also raises awareness about bioterrorism threats and encourages scientific exploration into finding effective countermeasures against these deadly toxins.
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