Antillatoxin

Antillatoxin is a neurotoxin produced by the dinoflagellate Gambierdiscus toxicus. It is one of the many toxins that can cause Ciguatera fish poisoning, a form of food poisoning that can occur after eating certain types of fish.

Overview

The Gambierdiscus toxicus dinoflagellate is a type of marine plankton that produces a variety of toxins, including antillatoxin. These toxins can accumulate in the tissues of fish that feed on the plankton, and can then be passed on to humans who consume the fish. The symptoms of Ciguatera fish poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and neurological symptoms such as numbness and tingling.

Mechanism of Action

Antillatoxin acts by activating voltage-gated sodium channels, which can lead to an influx of sodium ions into neurons. This can cause a variety of effects, including neuronal depolarization, which can lead to the symptoms associated with Ciguatera fish poisoning.

Treatment

There is currently no specific antidote for antillatoxin, and treatment for Ciguatera fish poisoning is primarily supportive. This can include rehydration therapy, pain management, and treatment of other symptoms as necessary.

See Also

• Ciguatoxin
• Maitotoxin
• Palytoxin

Antillatoxin Resources
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