Final answer:
Botulinum toxin by C. botulinum causes flaccid paralysis while tetanus toxin by C. tetani causes spastic paralysis; early treatment is crucial, and botulinum toxin has some medical and cosmetic applications.
Step-by-step explanation:
The neurotoxins produced by Clostridium botulinum and Clostridium tetani are responsible for causing two types of paralysis through the interference with neurotransmitter release. Botulinum toxin, produced by C. botulinum, results in a flaccid paralysis by blocking the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, preventing muscle contraction. In contrast, tetanus toxin (TeNT), produced by C. tetani, leads to a spastic, rigid paralysis by inhibiting the release of glycine and GABA from inhibitory interneurons, which typically suppress acetylcholine release. This toxin action causes permanent muscle contraction, starting often with lockjaw and potentially leading to respiratory failure.
Treatment for these Clostridium infections involves early administration of antibiotics and antitoxins. Moreover, Clostridium spp. can cause other severe diseases such as food poisoning and gas gangrene. Of particular interest is the therapeutic use of botulinum toxin in controlled, small doses for cosmetic procedures such as the removal of wrinkles, under the brand name Botox, and in medical applications like treatment of muscle pathologies.