Question

Botulinum toxin causes flaccid paralysis of the muscles and is used for cosmetic purposes under the name Botox. Which of the following is the most likely mechanism of action of Botox?

a) Inhibiting acetylcholine release
b) Enhancing muscle contraction
c) Promoting ATP synthesis
d) Increasing calcium ion levels

Answer 1

Botulinum toxin, or Botox, acts by inhibiting the release of acetylcholine from motor neurons, leading to muscle relaxation and paralysis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most likely mechanism of action of Botox is inhibiting the release of acetylcholine from motor neurons.

Botulinum toxin, or Botox, acts as a protease that cleaves proteins involved in the neuron's release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for muscle contractions. By blocking acetylcholine release, Botox inhibits muscle contractions, leading to muscle relaxation and paralysis.

This mechanism of action is used in cosmetic procedures to reduce muscle contractions in the face, resulting in the temporary smoothing of wrinkles.