Tetramethylenedisulfotetramine

Tetramethylenedisulfotetramine (TETS) is a potent neurotoxin that is used as a rodenticide. It is an odorless, tasteless white powder that is slightly soluble in water, ethanol, and acetone, and insoluble in benzene and ether. TETS is a member of the class of tetramines that is tetramine in which the nitrogens at positions 1, 3, 5, and 7 are each substituted by a methyl and a sulfonate group. It has a role as a rodenticide and a neurotoxin. It is a sulfonate ester, a member of tetramines and an organosulfonate. It derives from a hydride of a tetramine.

History

TETS was first synthesized in the 1950s and has been used as a rodenticide in many countries, including the United States, China, and Germany. However, due to its high toxicity and the difficulty of treating TETS poisoning, it has been banned in many countries.

Mechanism of Action

TETS is a non-competitive antagonist of the GABA(A) receptor, which means it binds to a site on the receptor that is distinct from the binding site for the endogenous neurotransmitter GABA. This binding inhibits the action of GABA, leading to an overexcitation of the central nervous system. This overexcitation can lead to seizures, respiratory failure, and death.

Symptoms of Poisoning

Symptoms of TETS poisoning can occur within minutes to hours after exposure and can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, seizures, and coma. In severe cases, death can occur within hours due to respiratory failure.

Treatment

There is currently no specific antidote for TETS poisoning. Treatment is supportive and includes the control of seizures, maintenance of respiration, and the management of other symptoms as they occur.

See Also

• Neurotoxin
• Rodenticide
• GABA(A) receptor

References

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