Reference no: EM132671540

Part A

Define the following phrases and terms associated with the signs and symptoms of Dr. Westwood's TTX poisoning: diaphoresis, motor dysfunction, paresthesias, cyanotic, hypoventilating, bradycardia, gastric lavage, oxygen saturation.

Part B

As mentioned in the case description, tetrodotoxin is a molecule that blocks voltage-gated sodium ion channels. What is a voltage-gated sodium ion channel and what is its function?

Part C

When nerve cells are at rest, there is an unequal amount of positive and negative charges on either side of a nerve cell membrane. This charge difference creates an electrical potential. Describe how the resting membrane potential (resting potential) is generated.

Part D

What is happening to the electrical potential of a neuron when it generates an action potential? What is the function of the action potential in neurons?

Part E

Describe the role of sodium ions and sodium channels in generating an action potential.

Part F

What would happen to a neuron if it was exposed to tetrodotoxin? Be specific regarding its effect on the ability of a neuron to communicate.

Part G

Now that you have addressed some of the basic biology of this case, explain why Dr. Westwood experienced numbness after eating the pufferfish meal.

Part H

Paralysis is a term used to describe the loss of muscle function. If tetrodotoxin's effect is on neurons, why did Dr. Westwood experience paralysis?