Acetylcholine (ACh) is released by motor neurons and binds to receptors on muscle cells to initiate action potentials. Some snake venom contains specific toxins that bind irreversibly to these receptors and block acetylcholine's ability to bind. If an animal is bitten by a snake with these toxins in its venom, what do you predict would happen?
A) The animal's muscle cells would increase production of myoglobin.
B) The animal's muscles would contract uncontrollably.
C) The animal's muscles would not be able to contract.
D) The animal's muscle cells would show shrinkage in mitochondria.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If the toxin irreversibly binds to the receptors, the acetylcholine cannot bind and initiate action potentials in the muscle cells. This means that the animal's muscles would not be able to contract, leading to paralysis. There is no reason to expect an increase in myoglobin production, uncontrollable muscle contractions, or mitochondrial shrinkage as a result of this toxin specifically affecting ACh receptors.

Acetylcholine (ACh) Is Released by Motor Neurons and Binds to Receptors