Ricin — A deadly biological toxin

A 35-year-old Hyderabad doctor was arrested in Gujarat with weapons and materials to produce the deadly toxin ricin. Ricin is a highly toxic naturally occurring protein derived from the seeds of the castor oil plant (Ricinus communis). After extracting castor oil, the leftover mash contains ricin, which can be purified into a potent biological agent. Even a tiny amount can be fatal. Just a few milligrams can kill an adult if inhaled, ingested or injected.

Mechanism of action: Ricin inhibits protein synthesis in cells by inactivating ribosomes, leading to cell death and organ failure. There is no known antidote and treatment is largely supportive.

Symptoms: Depending on the route of exposure, symptoms may include respiratory distress, nausea, vomiting, severe diarrhoea, low blood pressure and multiple organ failure. Death can occur within 36-72 hours.

Classification and regulation: Ricin is listed as a Schedule 1 chemical under the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and is also categorised as a Category B bioterrorism agent by the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. Its possession or manufacture for non-scientific purposes is strictly prohibited under Indian and international law.

Relevance for UPSC: Important for topics under science and technology, internal security and international conventions on weapons of mass destruction. It exemplifies how biological agents pose dual-use risks — scientific and terror-related.