Which of the following organisms produces a neurotoxin, the most poisonous natural substance known, which causes dry mouth, dilated pupils, and a progressive muscle weakness that leads to respiratory failure and death?
A) Bacillus anthracis
B) Clostridium botulinum
C) Francisella tularensis
D) Variola major

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Clostridium botulinum produces the toxin botulinum, which is considered the most poisonous natural substance known. It causes symptoms such as dry mouth, dilated pupils, and muscle weakness that ultimately leads to respiratory failure and death. Bacillus anthracis produces anthrax toxin, Francisella tularensis causes tularemia, and Variola major is the virus that causes smallpox. None of these organisms produce the neurotoxin associated with the symptoms described.

Which of the Following Organisms Produces a Neurotoxin, the Most