Abrin (Abr)

Abrin works by penetrating the cells of the body and inhibiting cell protein synthesis. By attaching to a carbohydrate chain on the cell surface, the abrin molecule anchors itself to the cell, is subsequently engulfed and enters the inner parts of the cell where it reacts with a ribosomal subunit and interferes with the normal protein synthesis process of the cell. Without these proteins, cells cannot survive. This is harmful to the human body and will be fatal. The severity of the effects of abrin poisoning vary on the means of exposure to the substance. Abrin is not known to have been weaponised. The rosary pea, which is the source of abrin, is common to many tropical areas throughout the world and is sometimes used as an herbal remedy. The seeds of the rosary pea have been used to make beaded jewelry, which can lead to abrin poisoning if even a single one is swallowed. The outer shell of the seed protects the contents from the stomachs of most mammals.