Q. Consider the following statements regarding Ricin:
1.It is a highly potent toxin derived from the seeds of the castor oil plant.
2.It is classified as a bioterrorism agent due to its extreme toxicity and ease of production.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer: C
Notes:
Explanation: Both are correct
Statement 1 is correct: Ricin is a highly potent toxin derived from the seeds of the castor oil plant (Ricinus communis). The seeds contain about 1–5% ricin, a glycoprotein toxin that inhibits protein synthesis in cells, leading to cell death.
Statement 2 is correct: Due to its extreme toxicity and relative ease of extraction from the waste of castor bean processing, ricin is classified as a bioterrorism agent (Category B).
Source: ToI
