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HOW does VX GAS affect the neuromuscular junction?...what is the specific action of VX gas on the NMJ?

2007-03-06 13:28:13 · 1 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics Biology

1 answers

It works as a nerve agent by blocking the function of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. Normally, an electric nerve pulse would cause the release of acetylcholine over a synapse that would stimulate muscle contraction. The acetylcholine is then broken down to non-reactive substances (acetic acid and choline) by the acetylcholinesterase enzyme. If more muscle tension is needed the nerve must release more acetylcholine. VX blocks the action of acetylcholinesterase, thus resulting in sustained contractions of all the muscles in the body. Sustained contraction of the diaphragm muscle causes death by asphyxiation.

2007-03-06 13:58:38 · answer #1 · answered by Tiffany 3 · 1 0

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