What specific biochemical effect do the pore-forming toxins in Chironex fleckeri venom have that leads directly to heart failure?
Answer
Rapid increases in blood potassium
The venom of the most lethal species, Chironex fleckeri, is characterized by toxins that are highly cardiotoxic. These pore-forming toxins specifically target cardiac function by causing muscle disruption. The critical outcome of this cellular damage is a rapid elevation in the concentration of potassium within the bloodstream. This severe hyperkalemia disrupts the normal electrical signaling of the heart muscle, culminating in dangerous cardiac arrhythmias and ultimately leading to heart failure if not immediately addressed.
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