neurotoxin
Meaning of neurotoxin: A neurotoxin is a substance that damages or disrupts the normal function of nerve cells or the nervous system.
Definition of neurotoxin
A neurotoxin is a substance that damages nerve tissue or interferes with the normal function of neurons, the nerve cells that transmit signals throughout the body. Neurotoxins can come from many sources, including bacteria, venomous animals, plants, and industrial or environmental chemicals, and they can affect the brain, spinal cord, or peripheral nerves depending on the specific substance.
The effects of a neurotoxin depend on how it disrupts nerve function, such as by blocking the transmission of nerve signals, damaging the structure of nerve cells, or interfering with the chemical messengers nerves use to communicate. Exposure can produce effects ranging from temporary numbness or weakness to lasting nerve damage, depending on the substance, dose, and duration of exposure.
Some neurotoxins are used in carefully controlled, low doses for specific medical or cosmetic purposes despite being harmful at higher exposures.
Used in a sentence
Laboratory testing was performed to identify the specific neurotoxin responsible for the patient's symptoms.
Good to know
The same neurotoxin can produce different effects depending on the dose and route of exposure, which is why some neurotoxic substances are used therapeutically in small, controlled amounts despite being harmful in larger quantities.
Word origin
Where “neurotoxin” comes from
Formed from neuro-, from Greek neuron, meaning "nerve" or "sinew," and toxin, from Greek toxikon, meaning "poison."