What Are Some Common Toxins That Cause Muscle Paralysis?
Several toxins are known to cause muscle paralysis. Here are a few:
1. Botulinum Toxin: Produced by the bacterium _Clostridium botulinum_, this toxin inhibits acetylcholine release, leading to flaccid paralysis. 2. Tetrodotoxin: Found in pufferfish, this toxin blocks sodium channels on nerve cells, preventing action potentials and causing paralysis. 3. Saxitoxin: A marine toxin that also blocks sodium channels, similar to tetrodotoxin. 4. Curare: A plant-derived toxin that blocks acetylcholine receptors, preventing muscle contraction.
