Neurotóxico

Neurotóxico refers to any substance that is poisonous or destructive to nerve tissue. These substances, also known as neurotoxins, can disrupt the structure and function of the nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. Neurotoxins can be naturally occurring, such as venoms from snakes or certain plants, or they can be synthetic chemicals like pesticides or heavy metals.

The effects of neurotoxic exposure can vary widely depending on the specific substance, the dose, and the duration of exposure. Symptoms can range from subtle changes in behavior and cognition to severe neurological deficits. Some common effects include tremors, paralysis, memory loss, seizures, and sensory disturbances. In some cases, neurotoxic exposure can lead to permanent damage to the nervous system.

Neurotoxins can enter the body through ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption. Once in the body, they can cross the blood-brain barrier and affect nerve cells directly or indirectly by interfering with neurotransmitter function, damaging nerve cell structures, or disrupting essential cellular processes. Research into neurotoxins is ongoing, focusing on understanding their mechanisms of action, developing treatments for exposure, and identifying and mitigating sources of exposure in the environment.