Natural toxins include a wide variety of compounds with diverse chemical structures and toxicological effects. Some well-known examples include:
Batrachotoxin: Found in poison dart frogs, this potent toxin affects the nervous system by altering sodium ion channel function. Ricin: A highly toxic protein found in the seeds of the castor oil plant, ricin inhibits protein synthesis, leading to cell death. Aflatoxins: Produced by certain molds, these toxins can contaminate food supplies and are known to be carcinogenic.