Which receptor is blocked by Tetanus toxin?

Tetanus toxin primarily interferes with the function of inhibitory neurotransmitter release, particularly gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). It achieves this by blocking the release of neurotransmitters at the presynaptic terminals, particularly in the spinal cord. This inhibition results in unopposed excitatory activity, leading to symptoms such as muscle stiffness and spasms characteristic of tetanus.

The specific target of tetanus toxin is the synaptic vesicle protein synaptobrevin, which is essential for the fusion of vesicles containing GABA at the presynaptic membrane. Thus, when the release of GABA is inhibited, it disrupts the normal inhibitory signals that regulate muscle tone and reflexes, contributing to the clinical manifestations of tetanus.

In this context, the other options do not accurately describe the receptors blocked by tetanus toxin. The post-synaptic dopamine receptor is involved in dopaminergic signaling and is not affected by tetanus toxin. Adrenergic receptors, which interact with catecholamines like adrenaline, are unrelated to the action of tetanus. Similarly, histamine receptors are part of the immune response and allergic reactions and do not play a role in the mechanism of tetanus toxin. Therefore, the blockade of pres