Question

Some neurotoxins work essentially the same way as some local anesthetics, which is to

A) inactivate the enzyme that destroys the neurotransmitter.
B) bind to Na+ channels and inactivate them.
C) prevent depolarization by blocking Na+ entry into the cell.
D) A and B
E) B and C

Answer 1

Some neurotoxins work the same way as local anesthetics by blocking sodium channels and preventing depolarization, resulting in effective local anesthesia.

Step-by-step explanation:

Some neurotoxins work essentially the same way as some local anesthetics by binding to Na+ channels and inactivating them, which also prevents depolarization by blocking Na+ entry into the cell. This means that both neurotoxins and local anesthetics interfere with the transmission of nerve signals by preventing the movement of sodium ions across the neuronal membrane. For example, lidocaine and novocaine are local anesthetics that act as Na+ channel blockers, preventing sodium from moving across the neuronal membrane and effectively blocking nerve conduction in the area where they are applied. This makes them effective in preventing the initiation and transmission of sensory impulses, resulting in local anesthesia.