Ricin: Technical Background and Potential Role in Terrorism

Abstract

On December 20, 2010, CBS News reported that the Department of Homeland Security had uncovered a credible threat of attacks using poisons, such as ricin, in salad bars and buffets. Ricin, a deadly toxin derived from castor beans, has been identified as a potential bioweapon. Ricin is extremely toxic by ingestion, inhalation, and injection. No treatment or prophylaxis currently exists, though research into new therapies and vaccines against ricin exposure continues. Additionally, research to improve ricin detection is ongoing. Although ricin's potential use as a military weapon was investigated, its predominant use has been in small quantities against specific individuals. Most experts believe that ricin would be difficult to use as a weapon of mass destruction, but do not discount its potential as a weapon of terror. Ricin is on the Select Agent list, and its possession, transfer, or use is regulated under domestic and international law. This report will not be updated.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 21, 2010
Accession Number
ADA535881

Entities

People

  • Dana A. Shea
  • Frank Gottron

Organizations

  • Library of Congress

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Arms Control Treaties
  • Biological Factors
  • Biological Weapons
  • Chemical Weapons
  • Detection
  • Governments
  • Health
  • Health Care
  • Health Services
  • Homeland Security
  • Lethal Dosage
  • National Security
  • Public Health
  • Security
  • Terrorism
  • United States
  • Weapons Of Mass Destruction

Readers

  • Environmental Engineering.
  • Infectious Disease/Epidemiology
  • Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) Technology.

Technology Areas

  • Biotechnology