How does Tetanus disrupt the homeostasis?
i think it has something with the amount of calcium in our body but i am not quite sure.....can u please help me?
Thanks!!!
Of course! Tetanus is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, and it does disrupt homeostasis in the body. The bacteria produce a neurotoxin called tetanospasmin, which affects the nervous system. It specifically targets inhibitory neurons, which are responsible for regulating muscle contractions.
To understand how tetanus disrupts homeostasis, let's break it down step by step:
1. Entry of the bacteria: The bacteria enter the body through a wound, such as a cut or puncture. Once inside, they begin to multiply and release toxins.
2. Toxin release: The bacteria release tetanospasmin, which travels to the nearby nerves.
3. Binding to nerve terminals: Tetanospasmin binds to the nerve terminals that release the neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps regulate muscle contractions.
4. Inhibition of GABA release: Once bound, tetanospasmin inhibits the release of GABA from the nerve terminals. This prevents GABA from carrying out its normal function of inhibiting muscle contractions.
5. Uncontrolled muscle contractions: Without the inhibitory effect of GABA, the muscles become hyperactive. This leads to persistent, painful muscle contractions, which are characteristic symptoms of tetanus. These contractions can affect various parts of the body, including the jaw (lockjaw), neck, back, and limbs.
So, to summarize, tetanus disrupts homeostasis by interfering with the normal regulation of muscle contractions. It does not directly affect the amount of calcium in the body, as tetanospasmin specifically targets GABA release.