Respond constructively to a question posted on the discussion board by your peer

Question

Respond constructively to a question posted on the discussion board by your peers. You should not answer your own question although you are encouraged to review responses from your peers and respond. The response should be thoughtful and include a peer-reviewed reference which can be found through the UNE library or other internet sources.

Post:

Steve accepts a dare from Larry to consume a large quantity of apple seeds. Steve nor Larry knew how dangerous consuming apple seeds could be, as the seeds contain a high level of cyanide once chewed and consumed (https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318706.php). Steve falls into a coma, and is rushed to the hospital. Why does Steve fall into a coma? Which specific part of metabolism is affected by cyanide poisoning?

Explanation / Answer

The reason Steve falls into a coma and the specific part of the metabolism which is affected by cyanide poisoning
The toxic result of cyanide is ascribed predominantly to the creation of anoxia following interference of cytochrome oxidase, a terminal mitochondrial respiratory chain enzyme. Enzyme above comprises two heme A and two copper ions. Cyanide has a special attraction for the heme ion, and the response of cyanide with the multimeric iron enzyme complex is facilitated by first penetration of cyanide to protein crevices, with the original binding of cyanide to the protein accompanied by binding of cyanide to heme ion. Thereby, a cyanide-heme cytochrome oxidase complex is formed which renders the enzyme incapable of using the oxygen. The resultant oxygen overload of the blood imparts a cherry red colour, which aids the investigations in most instances of cyanide poisoning. Interference of cytochrome oxidase results in interruption of electron transport chain and the oxidative phosphorylation. Resultant anaerobic metabolism with critically decreased ATP generation and a concomitant increase in lactic acid production eventually lead to tissue hypoxia and metabolic acidosis.
Various non-specific signs and indications like a headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, confusion, coma and incontinence of faeces and urine occur. Physiologically a sequence of events like dyspnoea, incoordination of movement, cardiac irregularities, convulsive seizures, coma and respiratory failure may occur leading to death. Similarly, Steve falls into a coma.

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