We adapted a technology whereby individual [ricin] protein molecules are encapsulated within a thin polymer shell, termed nanocapsules. These nanocapsules can effectively enter the cells, owing to the positive charge on their surface and release their [ricin] protein cargo due to the ‘proton-sponge’ effect…. One unique advantage of this nanocapsule platform is its flexibility. By altering the chemical properties of the nanocapsule surface, one can modulate critical factors such as cell surface affinity, immunogenicity, release rates of its cargo, circulation time and biodistribution.”

Specific elimination of Latently
HIV-1 Infected Cells Using HIV-1
Protease-Sensitive Toxin Nanocapsules ^[4]

The four authors of the above-quoted article are, Yang Liu, Jing Wen, Jie Li and Yiming Xie. I pass over, for the moment, the Chinese ethnicity of the authors. Their study was funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health. The bio-warfare implications of this research should not escape our notice. The article was submitted for publication in November 2015 and published in April 2016 (available in the notes below). The article states that ricin toxin can be wrapped within a nanocapsule and used in non-lethal doses to target specific cells within the body.