Multiple Choice Questions on Endocrine System Related

Review Multiple Choice Questions on Endocrine System related questions and content

A 33-year-old woman becomes poisoned after receiving an injection of concentrated botulinum toxin. Which of the following is the main neurochemical mechanism by which this Clostridium toxin causes its effects?

  • A. Directly activates all muscarinic and nicotinic receptors
  • B. Inhibits ACh release from all cholinergic nerves
  • C. Prevents neuronal norepinephrine reuptake
  • D. Releases norepinephrine via a nonexocytotic process
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Inhibits ACh release from all cholinergic nerves. Botulinum toxin blocks the release of acetylcholine (ACh) from cholinergic nerve terminals, leading to muscle paralysis. This occurs through the cleavage of SNARE proteins, preventing vesicle fusion and neurotransmitter release. Choice A is incorrect because botulinum toxin does not directly activate receptors. Choice C is incorrect as botulinum toxin does not affect neuronal norepinephrine reuptake. Choice D is incorrect because botulinum toxin does not release norepinephrine via a nonexocytotic process.