Castor beans ricin content

Ricin is a natural toxic protein derived from the castor bean plant, Ricinus communis. The ricin content of castor beans varies between 1% and 5%. Ricin intoxication has been reported [40 ]. 

Analytical methods used to idenhfy ricin include immxme methods (ELISA) and liquid chromatography/ mass spectrometry (LC/MS). Gastric contents can be assayed and ricin can be detected in blood and body fluids by radioimmunoassay and LC/MS (Darby et al., 2001 Mouser et al., 2007). Ricinine levels can be assayed in serum and urine using LC/MS (Roen et al., 2013). Polymerase chain reaction methods are available to detect the DNA in castor beans. 

Variable toxicity is seen in cases of oral ingestion. Seeds that are chewed are much more likely to cause clinical signs. Seeds swallowed whole may not cause any problems at all (Kinamore et al., 1980). The amoimt of toxalbumins in the seeds will vary by size, weight, moisture content, region, season, and the period of plant growth at the time of harvesting. The ricin content of castor beans can vary from 1% to 10% (Balint, 1974). The... 

Ricin is a naturally occurring phytotoxin occurring in the beans of the castor plant Ricinus communis. Its content in the castor... 

Lectins are widely distributed in both the plant and animal kingdoms, and are even present in some microorganisms. The maximum amounts are found in the seeds of plants. The most frequently occurring lectins, their content and important properties are shown in Table 10.21. Some lectins traditionally have trivial names, for example the lectin (albumin) of castor seeds is ricin, and the lectin of jack beans (Canavalia ensiformis, Fabaceae) is trivially called concavalin A. 

---