Tetrodotoxin (TTX) is a poisonous substance produced by certain fish types like pufferfish. So, the individuals who enjoy pufferfish foods are at high risk of developing food poisoning with this substance. It is produced by some other animals as well.
Tetrodotoxin blocks the flow of sodium ions through the sodium channels present in the nerve cells. The size of tetrodotoxin is larger than Na+ and it blocks Na+ channels like a "cork in a bottle" by binding to the channels. Thus it prevents the flow of Na+ during action potential.
One milligram of tetrodotoxin is considered as the mortal dose. In mouse, studies reveal that LD50 is10 nanograms. There is no antidote discovered yet for tetrodotoxin.
Symptoms of tetrodotoxin poisoning start with tingling sensation of lips and tongue. Other symptoms include, hypersalivation, sweating, headache, tremors, bronchospasm, diarrhea and abdominal pain.
Treatment of tetrodotoxin poisoning is symptomatic including airway management, and stomach wash with activated charcoal if it is ingested. Intravenous fluids, alpha adrenergic agonists and anticholinesterase agents are also useful to relieve the symptoms.
Symptoms of tetrodotoxin poisoning start with tingling sensation of lips and tongue. Other symptoms include, hypersalivation, sweating, headache, tremors, bronchospasm, diarrhea and abdominal pain.
Treatment of tetrodotoxin poisoning is symptomatic including airway management, and stomach wash with activated charcoal if it is ingested. Intravenous fluids, alpha adrenergic agonists and anticholinesterase agents are also useful to relieve the symptoms.
Keywords: Tetrodotoxin, Puffer fish, Sodium channels, Na+ ions, Nerve block, Action potential,
Good.Is tetradotoxin is normally present in puffer fish or its also infection of puffer fish ?
ReplyDeleteTretodoxin (TTX)is a kind of neurotoxin contained by puffer fish, newts, toads, sea stars, flatworms and many other animals. They use this toxin as a defensive or predatory venom.
ReplyDeleteThe liver of puffer fish may contain enough amount of tretodotoxin to cause the paralysis of diaphragm leading to respiratory failure.
It has been reported that TTX is hundred times more poisonous than potassium cyanide (KCN).
Thumbs up for this informative piece of work!
ReplyDeleteTretodotoxin is a poisonous substance that paralyzes the body tissues by blocking the sodium channels of the nerve cells.