What Are Common Toxins That Affect Muscle Coordination?
Several toxins are known to disrupt muscle coordination. Botulinum toxin, produced by Clostridium botulinum, inhibits acetylcholine release, causing flaccid paralysis. Tetrodotoxin, found in pufferfish, blocks sodium channels on nerve cells, preventing action potentials and leading to muscle paralysis. Additionally, organophosphate pesticides inhibit acetylcholinesterase, resulting in continuous muscle contraction and potential respiratory failure.
