botulinum toxin (Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit University)

Botulinum toxin is a potent neurotoxic protein produced by the bacterium *Clostridium botulinum* that acts as a neuromuscular blocking agent. It functions by entering peripheral cholinergic nerve terminals and cleaving SNARE proteins, such as SNAP-25, which are essential for the calcium-dependent exocytosis of acetylcholine. This inhibition of neurotransmitter release results in temporary chemical denervation and localized muscle relaxation. In the clinical context of bruxism and masseter hypertrophy, the toxin is injected directly into the masseter muscles to reduce muscle force and volume, thereby alleviating teeth grinding and associated pain. This specific application is being evaluated in clinical trials by Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University to compare its efficacy against traditional occlusal splint therapies.

Brand names

BotoxDysportXeominMyobloc

Other names

botulinum neurotoxinBoNT