Tetrodotoxin, also known as "zombie powder" is synthesized by the puffer fish as a defense mechanism. Tetrodotoxin's mechanism o
f action is to block voltage-gated sodium (Na ) channels in motor neurons, thus preventing them from transmitting action potentials. This will render the muscle unable to contract due to lack of stimulation.
Tetrodotoxin is the molecules that act as a poison to the organism in which they are injected.
The tetrodotoxin proves lethal to the organisms as it kills the organism by interfering with the nervous system. The tetrodotoxin blocks the sodium channels in the neuron as a result of which the sodium is unable to enter the neurons and hence the electrical impulse is not generated.
If the tetrodotoxin blocks the motor neuron transmission by blocking the sodium channels then the signals will not reach the muscle and muscle will not be able to contract.
