Pufferfish poison, also known as tetrodotoxin, is a deadly neurotoxin found in the liver, intestines, and gonads of pufferfish. It is one of the most potent natural toxins known, and even a small amount can cause paralysis and death. Tetrodotoxin blocks the voltage-gated sodium channels in nerve cells, preventing the transmission of electrical signals. This can lead to paralysis of the respiratory muscles, which can cause death by asphyxiation.
Tetrodotoxin can be injected by needle directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system and allowing the toxin to reach the target tissues more quickly. This can increase the risk of severe poisoning and death. Injection of pufferfish poison is a rare but potentially fatal form of poisoning that requires immediate medical attention.