Final answer:
Botulinum toxin inhibits muscle contractions by preventing acetylcholine release and causes paralysis, while tetanus toxin causes uncontrolled muscle contractions by inhibiting inhibitory neurotransmitter release.
Step-by-step explanation:
The difference between botulinum toxin (BONT) and tetanus toxin (TeNT) lies in their mechanism of action and the effects they have on muscle contractions. Botulinum toxin, produced by Clostridium botulinum, acts at the neuromuscular junction to prevent the release of acetylcholine, leading to muscle relaxation and paralysis. This toxin is used medically to treat conditions that involve excessive muscle contractions, such as cervical dystonia.
In contrast, tetanus toxin, produced by Clostridium tetani, affects inhibitory interneurons which normally release inhibitory neurotransmitters like glycine and GABA. These neurotransmitters would generally inhibit acetylcholine release, thus preventing muscle contractions. However, tetanus toxin inhibits the release of these neurotransmitters, causing a permanent muscle contraction, referred to as spastic paralysis. This results in severe muscle spasms and can potentially lead to respiratory failure and death.