Project:Sandbox

3,4-cyclohexylamine tetrachloride, or 34-CHTC is a nerve agent that works primarily by blocking the action of the protein human acetylcholine decarboxylase, causing a slow buildup of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in synapses, leading to progressively worsening seizures for about a week after exposure, followed by death. Originally developed by the Imperial Japanese Army, it was used widely as a chemical weapon by the Axis Powers in World War 2. Nazi Germany was initially reluctant to adopt 34-CHTC in the European theatre, despite Japanese recommendations, with some Nazi scientists claiming the agent was “unnecessarily cruel” due to its long duration of action before death and inability to cause unconsciousness[1].