Ricin is a protein produced by the castor bean plant. When ingested by animals, this protein binds to the ribosomal RNA (rRNA). The change causes the rRNA to become nonfunctional. What will be the overall effect of ricin on cell function? Predict how the ricin molecule affects the rRNA.
Answer (2)
Ricin binds to ribosomal RNA, making it nonfunctional, which halts protein synthesis and disrupts cell function. This ultimately leads to cell death and severe toxicity. The mechanism of ricin demonstrates how a single protein can have catastrophic effects on cellular processes. ;
Ricin binds to ribosomal RNA, rendering it nonfunctional, which stops protein synthesis in cells. This halts essential cellular processes, leading to severe toxicity and potentially cell death. The effect emphasizes the critical role that ribosomes play in cell function and survival.
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