Tetanospasmin

Tetanospasmin is a potent toxin produced by the bacteria Clostridium tetani, which causes tetanus. When the bacteria infects a wound, tetanospasmin gets into the nervous system and blocks the signals that normally inhibit muscle contractions. As a result, muscles can become uncontrollably tight and rigid, leading to the characteristic symptoms of tetanus, such as lockjaw and muscle stiffness. The toxin affects the nervous system without harming the skin or tissues directly. Vaccination can prevent infection by neutralizing the toxin, making tetanospasmin a key target in tetanus prevention and treatment.