Unlucky Chucky and Toxins of the Neuromuscular Junction
Author(s)
Center for Learning Innovation
University of Minnesota Rochester
jwollsch@umn.edu
Center for Learning Innovation
University of Minnesota Rochester
dunb0011@r.umn.edu
Abstract
Signaling at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is a complex process that is required for many actions that sustain life within humans. Toxins that act upon the NMJ, both natural and synthetic, act in a variety of ways to inhibit this function. This case study examines how a variety of toxins can act to disrupt the normal mechanism of function of the NMJ by placing a protagonist (“Unlucky Chucky”) at an eco-spa in Colombia with his good friend Melody. Unfortunately, during their time at the eco-spa, things don’t always turn out well for Chucky. A variety of neuromuscular toxins are discussed including curare (d-tubocurarine), Botox (botulinum toxin A), physostigmine and sarin gas (GB). This case was designed to be used in a variety of classrooms ranging from an undergraduate introduction to biology course in a module focused on neuromuscular functioning, to an introduction to physiology course as an introduction to the NMJ; it could also potentially be used in a nursing course that is examining NMJ physiology.
Objectives
- Understand the structure and function of the neuromuscular junction.
- Understand the mechanisms by which curare, botulinum toxin, and nerve agents work to affect the physiology of the NMJ.
- Apply principles learned from this case to other ions and drugs that might operate at the NMJ.
Keywords
neuromuscular junction; NMJ; toxin; antagonist; acetylcholine; curare; botulinum toxin; sarinTopical Areas
N/AEducational Level
Undergraduate lower divisionFormat
PDFType / Methods
InterruptedLanguage
EnglishSubject Headings
Biology (General) | Physiology |
Date Posted
7/5/2016Teaching Notes
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