BOTULINE Meaning and
Definition
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Botuline is a noun that refers to a substance derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, commonly known as botulinum toxin. It is a highly toxic neurotoxic protein that can cause muscle paralysis and is responsible for the development of botulism, a severe form of food poisoning. Botuline is known for its potent ability to inhibit the release of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter that plays a vital role in muscle contraction. This unique property makes it valuable in medical and cosmetic applications.
In medicine, botuline is widely utilized as a therapeutic agent to treat various conditions like muscle spasms, dystonias, migraines, and hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). By injecting small amounts of botuline into affected muscles or glands, it selectively weakens or paralyzes them, providing relief for patients. Additionally, in the field of cosmetic surgery, botuline is employed to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, as it temporarily relaxes the facial muscles responsible for causing these age-associated skin imperfections.
Aside from its medical and cosmetic uses, botuline also presents potential risks and dangers. Its extreme toxicity demands careful handling and storage, as even minute quantities can be lethal if ingested or introduced into the bloodstream. Therefore, it is vital to ensure proper precautions and measures are observed when working with botuline in any capacity.
Overall, botuline is a highly potent protein derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, renowned for its unique ability to temporarily weaken or paralyze muscles. With diverse applications spanning medical and cosmetic disciplines, it offers both therapeutic benefits and potential risks.
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A ptomaine found in sausages and canned meats and vegetables produced by Bacillus botulinus; it is poisonous.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for BOTULINE
Etymology of BOTULINE
The word "botuline" is derived from "botulinum", which comes from the Latin word "botulus", meaning "sausage" or "intestine". The term was first coined by the German physician and bacteriologist Emile van Ermengem in the late 19th century. He discovered the bacteria Clostridium botulinum, which produces a toxin known as botulinum toxin. This toxin is responsible for causing a severe form of food poisoning called botulism. The term "botuline" is often used to refer to botulinum toxin, particularly in the context of cosmetic treatments like Botox, where the toxin is used to temporarily reduce wrinkles and fine lines.
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