botulinum toxin science definition

Any of several enzymes produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum that are extremely potent neurotoxins. Botulinum toxin interferes with the ability of neurons to release acetylcholine at nerve-muscle junctures, thereby inducing the paralysis of botulism. Botulinum toxin is resistant to enzymatic digestion in the body and is used as an antispasmodic and a treatment for wrinkles by paralyzing facial muscles. Also called botulin.