PSPtoksiinit

PSPtoksiinit is a broad term encompassing a group of potent toxins produced by certain species of dinoflagellates, particularly within the genus *Alexandrium*. These toxins are responsible for paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP), a serious form of human intoxication that can occur from consuming shellfish contaminated with these dinoflagellates. The primary and most well-studied PSP toxin is saxitoxin (STX). However, PSPtoksiinit also refers to a variety of saxitoxin analogues, which are chemically similar to STX and possess similar toxic properties. These analogues differ from saxitoxin in the position or presence of specific chemical groups.

The mechanism of action for PSPtoksiinit involves the blockage of voltage-gated sodium channels in nerve cells. By binding to these channels, the toxins prevent the influx of sodium ions, which is essential for the generation and propagation of nerve impulses. This disruption leads to a range of neurological symptoms, including numbness, tingling, paralysis, and in severe cases, respiratory failure and death. The potency of PSPtoksiinit is exceptionally high, with saxitoxin being one of the most potent non-protein neurotoxins known.

PSPtoksiinit are naturally occurring marine toxins that accumulate in filter-feeding shellfish when they ingest toxic dinoflagellates. The concentration of these toxins in shellfish can vary significantly depending on environmental conditions such as water temperature, nutrient availability, and the presence of specific dinoflagellate species. Monitoring of shellfish beds for the presence of PSPtoksiinit is crucial for public health to prevent outbreaks of paralytic shellfish poisoning.