Kainic acid is a neurotoxin as well as an activator of neurons because
A) at low doses it destroys neurons.
B) at low doses it dissolves the neuron membrane.
C) at high doses it overexcites and then kills neurons.
D) kainic acid is toxic to glial cells that nourish neurons.
E) it blocks membrane sodium channels.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Kainic acid is known to be a neurotoxin at high doses because it overexcites neurons, leading to their death. At low doses, it can activate neurons but functions as a toxin at high doses. Option A and B are incorrect because kainic acid does not destroy neurons by dissolving or destroying their membranes. Option D is also incorrect because kainic acid primarily affects neurons, not glial cells. Option E is incorrect because kainic acid does not block sodium channels, but instead, it overstimulates them.

Kainic Acid Is a Neurotoxin as Well as an Activator