Final answer:
Ammonia is a toxic byproduct of protein metabolism with serious effects on the CNS, which can lead to symptoms such as flapping tremors and slurred speech, and, in severe cases, can cause coma and death. The urea cycle is critical for converting ammonia to urea, a less harmful substance that is excreted by the kidneys. Dysfunctions in the urea cycle can result in ammonia intoxication.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ammonia Toxicity and Its Effects on the Central Nervous System
Ammonia is a toxic byproduct of protein metabolism that can have severe consequences on the central nervous system (CNS). Normally, ammonia levels in the blood are low (10-12 µg/dl), as the liver is effective at processing this compound. However, if ammonia accumulates due to metabolic disorders or liver dysfunction, symptoms of ammonia intoxication may occur. These symptoms include flapping tremors, slurring of speech, and blurring of vision, all of which can progress to coma and death in severe cases.
The urea cycle converts toxic ammonia to less harmful urea. When there is an issue in the urea cycle, particularly at the first two steps, ammonia levels can become dangerously high, resulting in ammonia intoxication. Treatment may include the use of surgery to reduce ammonia levels through a shunting method.
In ureotelic animals such as humans, ammonia is mainly excreted in the form of urea. The urea cycle, discovered by Krebs and Henseleit, is a crucial path for the safe elimination of ammonia by converting it into urea, which is then cleared by the kidneys. Disruptions to this cycle can have significant health implications, emphasizing the importance of the liver and kidneys in detoxifying ammonia.