Final answer:
Nerve agents are organic chemicals that block acetylcholinesterase, leading to symptoms such as constricted pupils and convulsions. Treatment involves anticholinergic drugs and oximes. Examples of nerve agents include Sarin and VX.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nerve agents, also known as nerve gases, are organic chemicals that disrupt nerve messaging by blocking acetylcholinesterase (AChE), an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine. This inhibition causes a buildup of acetylcholine, leading to symptoms such as constricted pupils, salivation, convulsions, and involuntary urination and defecation. Nerve agents can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin, and their primary entry into the body is through the respiratory system.
The treatment for nerve agent poisoning involves a combination of anticholinergic drugs to manage symptoms and oximes as antidotes. Anticholinergics reduce the effects of acetylcholine, while oximes displace phosphate molecules from cholinesterase enzymes, allowing acetylcholine breakdown. Military personnel are issued autoinjectors containing this combination for ease of use.
Examples of nerve agents include Sarin, VX, Tabun, and Soman. They are generally colorless liquids that might evaporate to a gas, with varying odors and tastes.