Nerve gas

Nerve gas or 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

Nerve agents were first developed by Nazi Germany in the 1930s and 1940s. The first nerve agent, Tabun, was discovered in 1936, followed by Sarin in 1938 and Soman in 1944. These agents were not used during World War II, but have been used in various conflicts since then, including the Iran–Iraq War and the Syrian Civil War.

Types

There are three main types of nerve agents: G-series, V-series, and Novichoks. G-series agents, which include Sarin, Soman, and Tabun, were developed by Germany during World War II. V-series agents, such as VX, were developed by the UK in the 1950s. Novichoks were developed by the Soviet Union in the 1970s and 1980s.

Mechanism of action

Nerve agents inhibit acetylcholinesterase, which is necessary for the proper functioning of the nervous system. When acetylcholinesterase is blocked, acetylcholine accumulates at nerve junctions, causing overstimulation of muscles and glands.

Symptoms

Exposure to nerve gas can cause a range of symptoms, including convulsions, paralysis, respiratory failure, and death. The severity of symptoms depends on the amount of exposure and the method of exposure.

Treatment

Treatment for nerve gas exposure includes decontamination and administration of antidotes. Antidotes include atropine, pralidoxime, and diazepam.

See also

• Chemical warfare
• Chemical Weapons Convention
• Organophosphate poisoning

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