Sandbox Reserved 466: Difference between revisions
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== Introduction == | == Introduction == | ||
The tetanus toxin is produced by the bacteria ''Clostridium tetani''. Clostridium bacteria produces distinct neurotoxins that are extremely potent to humans. Both ''Clostridium botulinum'' and ''Clostridium tetani'' form the clostridial neurotoxin family [Krishnamurthy et al., 2005]. This family is classified as part of the peptidase M27 family of proteins, which are metalloproteases. Metalloproteases bind with a divalent cation, usually zinc, which activates water molecules within the active site to hydrolyze peptide bonds [PDB]. | The tetanus toxin is produced by the bacteria ''Clostridium tetani''. Clostridium bacteria produces distinct neurotoxins that are extremely potent to humans. This bacillus bacteria's spores are widely found in nature, particularly in soil. It enters the body through cuts or abrasion of the skin. The Clostridium bacteria produces two types of neurotoxins. Both ''Clostridium botulinum'' and ''Clostridium tetani'' form the clostridial neurotoxin family [Krishnamurthy et al., 2005]. This family is classified as part of the peptidase M27 family of proteins, which are metalloproteases. Metalloproteases bind with a divalent cation, usually zinc, which activates water molecules within the active site to hydrolyze peptide bonds [PDB]. | ||
The tetanus toxin effects the central nervous system by inhibiting the release of neurotransmitters, glycine and gamma-aminobutyric acid, into the synaptic cleft of the spinal cord. This causes | The tetanus toxin effects the central nervous system by inhibiting the release of neurotransmitters, glycine and gamma-aminobutyric acid, into the synaptic cleft of the spinal cord. This toxin causes tetanus, which is characterized by rigidity, spasms, and paralysis of the voluntary muscles of the body [Krishnamurthy et al., 2005]. Tetanus is often referred to as "lockjaw" because a large majority of the patients experience rigidity of the jaw muscles. | ||
The toxin is produced after the bacterial cell's active, exponential growth phase. | The toxin is produced after the bacterial cell's active, exponential growth phase. | ||
