Explain how tetanospasmin functions to cause disease.

Tetanus Neurotoxin (TeNT) binds to the presynaptic membrane of the neuromuscular junction is internalized and transported retroaxonally to the spinal cord. The spastic paralysis induced by the toxin is due to the blockade of neurotransmitter release from spinal inhibitory interneurons.

Explanation:

The muscular rigidity and spasms of tetanus are caused by tetanus toxin (tetanospasmin) which is produced by Clostridium tetani, an anaerobic bacillus whose spores survive in soil and cause infection by contaminating wounds.

Tetanus Neurotoxin (TeNT) binds to the presynaptic membrane of the neuromuscular junction is internalized and transported retroaxonally to the spinal cord. The spastic paralysis induced by the toxin is due to the blockade of neurotransmitter release from spinal inhibitory interneurons.

The tetanus shots is a safe and effective way to prevent tetanus and other dangeroud diseases occuring in most cases.