Question:

Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion (A) and other one labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A) : Strychnine induces convulsions.
Reason (R) : Strychnine induces convulsions by antagonizing $\text{GABA_{\text{A}}$ receptors.}
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below.

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Always associate Strychnine's mechanism of action with the antagonism of Glycine (not GABA).
  • Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
  • Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is NOT the correct explanation of (A).
  • (A) is correct but (R) is not correct.
  • (A) is not correct but (R) is correct.
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Strychnine is a highly toxic plant-derived alkaloid used as a pesticide.
It affects the central nervous system, leading to severe involuntary muscle contractions.
Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the statements:
- Assertion (A) analysis: Strychnine poisoning is characterized by violent, tonic, tetanic convulsions of the skeletal muscles in response to minimal sensory stimuli. Thus, Assertion (A) is correct.
- Reason (R) analysis: Strychnine acts as a competitive antagonist of glycine (an important inhibitory neurotransmitter) at postsynaptic glycine receptors in the spinal cord and brain stem. By blocking glycine, it removes the normal inhibitory control over motor neurons, leading to uncontrolled spinal convulsions. It does not antagonize $\text{GABA}_{\text{A}}$ receptors (which are targeted by picrotoxin). Thus, Reason (R) is not correct.

Step 2: Final Answer:

Since (A) is correct and (R) is not correct, the correct choice is Option (C).
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