Ribosome–inactivating Proteins: Ricin and Related Proteins

Ribosome–inactivating proteins (RIPs) do as their name suggests: they inactivate the ribosomes crucial to protein synthesis at the cellular level, ultimately killing cells. While some are extremely toxic, ricin being the consummate example, most RIPs are not and have been found useful in a number of medical and research applications such as in cancer and neurological research. Ribosome–Inactivating Proteins: Ricin and Related Proteins provides up–to–date information on all aspects of this broad–ranging family of proteins. The text includes comprehensive coverage of RIPs, providing detail on their distribution in nature, chemical structure, genetics, and chemical and immunological properties. The book also describes mechanistic aspects, including the enzymatic activity on various polynucleotide substrates; the interaction with and entry into cells; the toxicity to animals, pathology of poisoning; and the immunomodulatory and allergenic activity. Ribosome–Inactivating Proteins : Ricin and Related Proteins covers biological activities with potential applications in research in biology, medicine, and applied sciences; antiviral and insecticidal properties; and the conjugates of RIPs as immunotoxins and with other carriers capable of directing them toward specific target cells. Emphasis is given to the use of immunotoxins and other conjugates in clinical trials for the therapy of cancer and intractable pain. Finally, the possible uses of toxic RIPs for criminal uses and as biological weapons for warfare and terrorist attacks are summarized. Covers the use of RIPs in human therapies, such as targeted tumor treatment and pain management. Chapters on RIP activities as they relate to applications in research, agriculture, and medicine. Includes chapters on RIP antiviral properties, insecticidal properties, and use in neuroscience research. Describes the unique characteristics of RIPs in various plant families. Concluding section with a timely discussion of RIPs as bioweapons.

Fiorenzo Stirpe is Professor Emeritus at the Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Italy. Douglas A. Lappi is the President and Chief Scientific Officer of Advanced Targeting Systems, USA.