University of Central Florida (UCF) BOT4850 Medical Botany Practice Exam 1

Abrin poisoning is specifically associated with the Rosary pea, which contains the toxic protein abrin within its seeds. These seeds are often found in ornamental gardens and can be very attractive, but their ingestion can lead to severe toxicity and potentially death. Abrin is a potent ribosome-inactivating protein that can inhibit protein synthesis in cells, leading to the slow and fatal effects of poisoning.

The toxicity is significant because even a small amount of abrin can result in serious health issues. Symptoms may take hours or even days to manifest, which contributes to the lethality of the poisoning. In contrast, while other plants listed may be toxic, their active compounds and the nature of their effects are distinct from those of the Rosary pea, making it critical to recognize the specific association with abrin.