VE (nerve agent)

Chemical compound and nerve agent

Chemical structure of VE nerve agent

VE is a nerve agent of the V-series of organophosphorus compounds. It is closely related to the more well-known VX nerve agent. Like other V-series agents, VE is a potent acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, leading to the accumulation of acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft and causing continuous stimulation of muscles, glands, and central nervous system.

Chemical properties

VE is an organophosphate compound with the chemical formula C₁₁H₂₆NO₂PS. It is a colorless to amber-colored liquid at room temperature. The compound is odorless and tasteless, making it difficult to detect without specialized equipment.

Mechanism of action

VE acts by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, which is responsible for breaking down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft. When acetylcholinesterase is inhibited, acetylcholine accumulates, leading to continuous stimulation of muscles and nerves. This results in muscle paralysis, respiratory failure, and potentially death if not treated promptly.

Toxicity and symptoms

Exposure to VE can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. Symptoms of exposure include miosis (constricted pupils), rhinorrhea (runny nose), dyspnea (difficulty breathing), muscle twitching, and convulsions. Severe exposure can lead to coma and death.

Treatment

The primary treatment for VE exposure is the administration of atropine and pralidoxime. Atropine works by blocking the effects of acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors, while pralidoxime reactivates acetylcholinesterase. Diazepam may also be used to control seizures.

History and development

The V-series nerve agents, including VE, were developed in the 1950s by the United Kingdom and later by the United States and other countries. These agents were designed to be more persistent and potent than earlier nerve agents like sarin and tabun.

Related pages

• VX (nerve agent)
• Sarin
• Tabun
• Nerve agent

References

• Frederick R.,

 Medical Aspects of Chemical and Biological Warfare, 
  
 Office of The Surgeon General, Department of the Army, United States of America, 
 1997, 
  
  
 ISBN 978-0-16-045135-3,

• Emsley, John,

 The Shocking History of Phosphorus, 
 Nature, 
 1998,
 Vol. 393(Issue: 6682),
 pp. 127–128,
 DOI: 10.1038/30164,