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Mechanism of action of the toxic lectins abrin and ricin

Abstract

The mechanism of action of the plant toxins abrin and ricin is described. The toxins inhibit protein synthesis probably by inactivating the 60S ribosomal subunits, interfering with chain elongation. Only eukaryotic ribosomes are attacked by the toxins.

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Olsnes, S., Refsnes, K. & Pihl, A. Mechanism of action of the toxic lectins abrin and ricin. Nature 249, 627–631 (1974). https://doi.org/10.1038/249627a0

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