RESEARCH ON SEPARATION AND PURIFICATION OF ABRIN FROM THE SEEDS OF ABRUS PRECATORIUS IN VIETNAM

Abstract

Abrin is a natural lectin found in the seeds of Abrus precatorius. The structure of abrin consists of two
chains (Chain A and chain B) with a molecular weight about 65 kDa. Abrin is highly toxic to humans and
animals, so it is considered as a dangerous biological agent that can be used in terrorism or biological
warfare. This article introduces the process of isolating abrin from the seeds of Abrus precatorius and
purifying abrin by ion exchange chromatography and gel filtration chromatography. Purified abrin is used
in determining toxicity in animals, testing the sensitivity of rapid detection tests and immunological studies.