| abrin | <pharmacology> A highly poisonous protein found in the seeds of Abrus precatorius, the rosary pea. Abrin is toxic because it inhibits protein synthesis, causing symptoms such as internal bleeding, intestinal upset and the irritation of mucous membranes. It was formerly used to treat some chronic eye disorders and it is currently being researched as a potential chemotherapy drug. (06 May 1997) |
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