Marine toxins - saxitoxin (STX) and tetrodotoxin (TTX)

Abstract

Saxitoxin (STX) and tetrodotoxin (TTX) are two of the most poisonous marine biotoxins known. They have a very interesting history, both used as a means for suicide and murder STX has been announced publicly by the world`s governments as a chemical weapon, which made it attractive for many government agencies and no longer interesting for toxicologists and seafood producers. TTX is known as the toxin of `fugu` and also as the main agent in the zombification rituals in some Caribbean cultures. However, intentional intoxications by STX and TTX are not often as much as badly prepared fugu meals or saxitoxin-infested shellfish. A precise diagnosis can determine whether a victim has been intentionally intoxicated. The treatment of intoxication by STX and TTX is based on gastric evacuation, symptomatic relief and the body`s natural recovery mechanisms. There are some potential treatment options, but they need more examination and financing to advance.