Multiple choice

Clostridium tetani produces a potent toxin which causes constant constriction of muscles. Which of the following cells of the nervous system are targeted by this toxin?

  1. Pyramidal cells

  2. Renshaw cells

  3. Purkinje cells

  4. Basket cells

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

Renshaw cells are targetted by the toxin of Clostridium tetani. When wounds are contaminated with Clostridium tetani, the toxin travels to the spinal cord where it inhibits the release of glycine, an inhibitory neurotransmitter, from Renshaw cells. As a result, alpha motor neurons become hyperactive and muscles constantly contract.