Botulinum toxins crystalline

Delayed-action paralytic neurotoxins that block the release of acetylcholine causing a symmetric, descending flaccid paralysis of motor and autonomic nerves. Paralysis always begins with the cranial nerves. Toxins are obtained from an anaerobic bacteria (Clostridium botulinum). Toxin A is a white powder or crystalline solid that is readily soluble in water. It is stable for up to 7 days as an aqueous solution. All toxins are destroyed by heat and decompose when exposed to air for more than 12 h. 

Botulinum toxin is the most toxic substance known. One gram of crystalline toxin adequately dispersed can kill a population of a million people, so its use in bioterrorism is a possibility. The toxin can be introduced through inhalation or ingestion but not through dermal... 

Botulinum toxin is on the A list of potential bioterrorist weapons because of its toxicity, its lethality, its ease of production, ease of transport, ease of use, and the need for prolonged, intensive care of affected victims (36). The colorless, odorless, and probably tasteless toxin is the most poisonous substance known (36). The most efficient route of exposure through a terrorist attack would be inhalational, causing a distribution of illness distinctly different from naturally occurring human botulism. One gram of crystalline toxin dispersed through an airborne route, could kill up to 1 million people, although technical limitations on dispersal could reduce the number of casualties (36). 

Botulinal toxin type A, crystalline Clostridium botulinum... 

Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are produced by the anaerobic Clostridium botulinum species of bacteria and are the cause of botulism, a life-threatening neuroparalytic disease. They are extremely potent food poisons, with a mouse LD50 of 0.1 ng/kg for type A [1,2]. Aerosol exposure of BoNTs does not occur naturally, but could be attempted by bioterrorists to achieve a widespread effect. It has been estimated that a single gram of crystalline toxin, evenly dispersed and inhaled, could kill more than one million people [2]. 

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