bi·o·tox·in (b   -t k s n)n. A toxic substance produced by a living organism. |
biotoxin
[bī′ətoks′in]
poison produced by and derived from plants and animals. Biotoxins include abrin, from the jequirity bean or rosary pea (Abrus precatorius); ricin, from castor beans; and strychnine, from Strychnos nux-vomica. Biotoxins can be absorbed by ingesting or inhaling the toxin. Inhalation of ricin or abrin causes severe respiratory distress, and ingestion of these agents causes nausea and vomiting. Multisystem organ failure and death may occur. Strychnine attacks communication between the nerves and muscles and may lead to death from respiratory failure as the respiratory muscles tire. Treatment consists of removal of the toxin from the body and supportive care.
biotoxin
a poisonous substance produced by a living organism.
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