Nerve agent

Nerve agents are a class of organic chemicals that disrupt the mechanisms by which nerves transfer messages to organs. The disruption is caused by the blocking of acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme that catalyzes the breakdown of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter.

History

The first nerve agents were synthesized in the 1930s as part of research programs in the United States, United Kingdom, and Nazi Germany. The German program, led by Gerhard Schrader, was the most successful, leading to the discovery of Sarin, Tabun, and Soman.

Mechanism of Action

Nerve agents inhibit the action of acetylcholinesterase by forming a covalent bond with the serine residue at the active site of the enzyme. This prevents acetylcholinesterase from breaking down acetylcholine, causing an accumulation of acetylcholine in the nerve synapse. This leads to overstimulation of the muscles and glands controlled by the affected nerves, which can result in symptoms such as convulsions, paralysis, respiratory failure, and death.

Types of Nerve Agents

There are several types of nerve agents, classified by their persistency (how long they remain in the environment) and volatility (how easily they can be inhaled). These include:

• G-Series Nerve Agents: These include Tabun (GA), Sarin (GB), and Soman (GD). They were developed by Germany during and after World War II.
• V-Series Nerve Agents: These include VX. They are more persistent than G-series agents and were developed primarily in the UK and the US.
• Novichok Agents: These are a series of nerve agents developed by the Soviet Union and Russia between 1971 and 1993.

Treatment

Treatment for nerve agent exposure involves removing the agent from the body as quickly as possible and providing supportive medical care. Drugs such as atropine, pralidoxime, and diazepam are used to counteract the effects of the nerve agent.

See Also

• Chemical warfare
• Organophosphate poisoning
• Biological warfare