CROTOXIN A Meaning and
Definition
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Crotoxin A is a potent neurotoxic component found in the venom of certain species of South American rattlesnakes, specifically the pit vipers of the Crotalus genus. It is a heterodimeric protein complex consisting of two polypeptides, namely crotoxin B and crotoxin C, which are held together by non-covalent forces. Crotoxin A is known for its paralyzing effect on the prey and its ability to generate severe systemic effects in envenomated victims.
When crotoxin A enters the bloodstream, it selectively targets the presynaptic terminals of nerve cells, particularly those involved in neuromuscular transmission. This potent neurotoxin interferes with the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for transmitting nerve signals, by blocking calcium channels in the terminal nerve endings. Consequently, crotoxin A disrupts the transmission of nerve impulses, leading to profound muscle weakness and paralysis.
The symptoms induced by crotoxin A poisoning include respiratory distress, flaccid paralysis, loss of coordination, blurred vision, and even cardiovascular collapse. If left untreated, crotoxin A toxicity can result in life-threatening complications and death.
Although crotoxin A is highly toxic, it has also been studied for potential pharmaceutical applications. Research suggests that crotoxin A has anticancer properties, particularly in the inhibition of tumor growth and the induction of apoptosis in certain types of cancer cells. Additionally, its neurotoxic characteristics have been investigated for their potential use in treating certain neurological disorders, such as epilepsy and chronic pain. However, these potential applications are still under investigation, and further research is needed to fully understand the therapeutic possibilities of crotoxin A.
Common Misspellings for CROTOXIN A
- xrotoxin a
- vrotoxin a
- frotoxin a
- drotoxin a
- ceotoxin a
- cdotoxin a
- cfotoxin a
- ctotoxin a
- c5otoxin a
- c4otoxin a
- critoxin a
- crktoxin a
- crltoxin a
- crptoxin a
- cr0toxin a
- cr9toxin a
- croroxin a
- crofoxin a
- crogoxin a
- croyoxin a
Etymology of CROTOXIN A
The word "Crotoxin A" has a scientific etymology related to the venom of a specific snake called the "Crotalus durissus terrificus", commonly known as the South American rattlesnake or the tropical rattlesnake. The term is composed of two parts:
1. "Crotoxin": The first part of the word, "crotoxin", comes from the genus name of the snake, "Crotalus". The name "Crotalus" is derived from the Greek word "κρόταλον" (krotalon), meaning "rattle". It refers to the distinct rattling sound produced by the snake's tail as a warning signal.
2. "A": The letter "A" is used here to indicate a specific variant or isoform of crotoxin, which is a complex mixture of toxins found in the snake's venom.
Similar spelling word for CROTOXIN A
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