4. In fact, the Fast Voltage-gated V-G Na+ channels of Purkinje fibers are more

Question

4. In fact, the Fast Voltage-gated V-G Na+ channels of Purkinje fibers are more sensitive than any other type of Na+ channel to TTX. The TTX blocks these Fast V-G Na+ channels so that they do not open. The F-type Na+ channel is much less impacted, and functions normally under TTX. What happens to the AP in Purkinje fibers given this mechanism of action:? Physiologically, what does this mean in the patient who consumed TTX? 5. Although extremely toxic, there is some evidence that TTX can ease severe pain due to end- stage cancer (and may be effective in treating migraines). Given what you know about the use of opioids (and its side effects) vs. TTX, defend your opinion on whether TTX is a viable alternative to pain treatment in cancer patients,

Explanation / Answer

Ans 4: Na+ moves into the cell across its electrochemical gradient and it thus depolarizes the plasma membrane and shifts Vm close to V Na+. TTX (Tetrodotoxin) blocks the voltage gated Na+ channel and prevent the inward current movement i.e., the inward movement of current is associated with the entery of Na+ via plasma membrane voltage gated Na+ channels.

TTX is a natural posion, also called as neurotoxin, present in puffer fish, sunfish and triggerfish. It inhibits the V-G Na+ channels. It inhibit action potential and interfere with the nervous system and disturbes the heart rhythm.

Ans 5. Opioids are the pain killers or the pain relif drugs like morphines, hydrocodone etc. Their mode of action involves the binding to the receptors in the body like brain or spinal cord and thus prevents the pain signals to reach to brain and thereby, relives the severe pain. Their side effect includes nausea, vomiting and drowsiness.

TTX is a natural posion, also called as neurotoxin, present in puffer fish, sunfish and triggerfish. TTX is very much effective in pain relif in comparision to morphine and other drugs with no side effects and is non addictive and also with a long duration of action. Since, in cancer patients the chemotherapy destroyes many parts of nervous system and TTX is aneurotoxin. Thus many studies conducted on mice showed that TTX moderate dose can reduces the sever pain in cancer patients with long duration of action.

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse 4
• Subjects

---

---

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.