Cyanide Poisoning By Rosie, Jo, Emily, Cat and Anita

What is cyanide? The CN- ion, most commonly found in hydrogen cyanide (HCN). It’s one of the most common chemicals in the world. This is a pale blue/colourless liquid in standard conditions. It has a characteristic ‘bitter almond’ smell, although it does not always give off an odour, and not everyone can detect it. ( Guess some people are just unlucky ) It can also be present in the form of cyanogen chloride, or sodium cyanide crystals.

Where is it found? It is contained in cigarette smoke ( yet another smoking issue ). It may be released in the combustion of plastics. It is contained in the stones of some soft fruits ( well that’s just peachy ). Used in the manufacturing of paper, textiles, plastics, and the developing of photographs, as well as metallurgy Exterminating vermin ( Bit harsh ) In case you’re a fan of lima beans, a lethal dose of cyanide is contained in 3.7kg of the stuff. Yum.

What does it do? Cyanide quickly enters the bloodstream following exposure. Small doses can be dealt with ( but best not to try this at home ) as the body can change it into thiocyanate, which is less harmful and can be excreted in urine. Large doses ( uh oh ) can be fatal. Extent of poisoning depends on many things, but breathing it in is most harmful, though ingestion isn’t great either. As a result, enclosed spaces aren’t the place to be when cyanide’s around. On the plus side, it is less dense than air, so the gas rises – so if you’re stuck, dive for the floor.

The heart, respiratory system and central nervous system are most susceptible to damage. This is because cyanide prevents the cells of the body from respiring ( which is what your heart, lungs, and brain do A LOT ) resulting in cell death Cyanide poisoning can happen in seconds or minutes. Symptoms to watch out for are: Weakness and confusion Headache Nausea/feeling "sick to your stomach" Gasping for air and difficulty breathing Loss of consciousness/"passing out" Seizures Cardiac arrest If you’re suffering from any of these, you’d best go to the nurse…

Cyanide and enzymes The cyanide ion inhibits the activity of the enzyme cytochrome c oxidase ( thrilling name, I know ) which is found in mitochondria. It does this by binding to the iron in this protein. As a result, the electron transport chain is disrupted, meaning that the cell can no longer aerobically produce ATP for energy. However, if cells are directly supplied with enough energy, the effects can be overcome. ( Yayyyy )

Historical cases Cyanide can in some cases be virtually untraceable, and is lethal, making it an effective murder weapon. ( Not that we’re suggesting anything here ) Used in gas chambers in Nazi Germany - hydrogen cyanide in Zyklon B killed millions The USA used it in federal executions. Stockpiled as a chemical weapon during the Cold War by both the USA and Soviet Union. Used by an abundance of serial killers.