Effect of pesticide residues on health and different enzyme levels in the blood of farm workers from Gadap (rural area) Karachi-Pakistan

Autophagy perturbation upon acute pyrethroid treatment impacts adipogenic commitment of mesenchymal stem cells

Environmental chemical exposure can cause dysregulation in adipogenesis that can result in metabolic syndrome, which includes insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, as well as excessive body weight. The role of autophagy in adipocyte differentiation is debatable since both positive and negative effects have been reported. Type-I and type-II synthetic pyrethroids α-cypermethrin (CPM) and permethrin (PER), respectively, are reported to increase adipogenesis in vitro and in vivo. However, it is not known how these pyrethroids affect mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Thus, this study focused on evaluating the effect of pyrethroids (CPM and PER) pre-treatment (24 h) on MSC commitment and the regulatory role of autophagy in adipogenic lineage commitment. The formation of adipocytes was observed through nile red staining, perilipin expression by immunoflourescence, and adipogenic markers PPARγ, C/EBPα, and FABP4 by western blotting. It was found that the adipogenic differentiation ability of MSCs was significantly increased upon CPM or PER pre-treatment at 100 μM concentration as evident by lipid accumulation and enhanced expression of adipogenic markers. To assess the involvement of autophagy, the expression of p62 and LC3II were evaluated following pre-treatment. Immunoblotting results revealed an increased expression of p62 and LC3II in CPM or PER pretreated MSCs suggesting CPM and PER mediated inhibition of autophagy at 24 h. Further, an increase was observed in adipogenesis upon CPM or PER pre-treatment in combination with chloroquine, while use of rapamycin during pre-treatment abrogated the effect of CPM and PER. Thus, this study concludes that CPM or PER pre-treatment increases the adipogenic differentiation of MSCs. Since chloroquine also demonstrated similar adipogenic response, it further highlights that 24 h pre-treatment with autophagy modulators to inhibit basal autophagy primes MSCs towards adipogenic lineage.

Proteomic profiling reveals neuronal ion channel dysregulation and cellular responses to DNA damage-induced cell cycle arrest and senescence in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells exposed to cypermethrin

Cypermethrin (CYP), a synthetic pyrethroid of class II, is widely used as a pesticide worldwide. The primary target of cypermethrin is a voltage-gated sodium channel. The neurotoxicity of CYP has been extensively studied in terms of affecting neuronal development, increasing cellular oxidative stress, and apoptosis. However, little is known about how it affects the expression of channel proteins involved in synaptic transmission, as well as the effects of cypermethrin on DNA damage and cell cycle processes. We found that the ligand and voltage-gated calcium channels and proteins involved in synaptic transmission including NMDA 1 receptor subunit, alpha 1A-voltage-dependent calcium channel, synaptotagmin-17, and synaptojanin-2 were downregulated in CYP-treated cells. After 48h of CYP exposure, cell viability was reduced with flattened and enlarged morphology. The levels of 23 proteins regulating cell cycle processes were altered in CYP-treated cells, according to a proteomic study. The cell cycle analysis showed elevated G₀/G₁ cell cycle arrest and DNA fragmentation at the sub-G₀ stage after CYP exposure. CYP treatment also increased senescence-associated β-galactosidase positive cells, DNA damage, and apoptotic markers. Taken together, the current study showed that cypermethrin exposure caused DNA damage and hastened cellular senescence and apoptosis via disrupting cell cycle regulation. In addition, despite its primary target sodium channel, CYP might cause synaptic dysfunction via the downregulation of synaptic proteins and dysregulation of synapse-associated ion channels.

Use, exposure, and environmental impacts of pesticides in Pakistan: a critical review

The excessive use of pesticides is posing major threats to humans and the environment. However, the environmental exposure and impact of pesticides in Pakistan have yet been systematically reviewed, despite the country's leading role in pesticide use. Therefore, this study identified and then reviewed 85 peer-reviewed scientific publications on the topic. It was found that, compared to the worldwide average, Pakistan had high consumptions of pesticides, with an alarming increase of 1169% in the last two decades. The quantities of pesticides used followed an order of pyrethroids > organophosphates > organochlorines > carbamates, but organochlorines were the most problematic due to their environmental occurrence, the ability to transport across the media, and identified human and ecological toxicities. Additionally, the misuse or overuse of pesticides by farmers is prevailing due to insufficient knowledge about the risks, which leads to high risks in occupational exposure. These issues are further aggravated by the illegal use or continuous impacts of banned organochlorine pesticides. For the future, we suggested the establishment of organized monitoring, assessment, and reporting program based on environmental laws to minimize contamination and exposure to pesticides in Pakistan. Remediation of the contaminated areas to mitigate the adverse environmental-cum-health impacts are recommended in the most affected regions.

Infestation Differences and Control of the Clearwing Moth (Synanthedon myopaeformis Borkh.) in Apple Orchards, Egypt

<b>Background and Objective:</b> The clearwing moth (<i>Synanthedon myopaeformis</i> Borkh.) is considered one of the most dangerous pests infesting apple orchards in Egypt, causing the destruction of apple trees and a significant reduction in tree vigour and yield. Therefore, controlling it has become an important issue. The present study aimed to investigate the differences in <i>S. myopaeformis</i> infestation in apple orchards in different geographical regions and the infestation rates to different agricultural operations. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> The infestation percentages of <i>S. myopaeformis</i> in different geographical regions under varying agricultural operations were determined. Additionally, the amounts of chemical components (e.g., phenols, proline and total carbohydrates and proteins) in the stems and leaves of both infested and healthy apple trees were determined. Finally, the efficacy of seven different materials of varying types to control the borer was tested by painting the trunks of the apple trees. <b>Results:</b> The highest numbers of <i>S. myopaeformis</i> were recorded in July at locations with varying agricultural operations: Melig (25.88 adults), Kafer-Aleim (20.30 adults) and Al-Khatatba (13.02 adults). The emergence percentages recorded at the abovementioned locations were 44.55, 33.40 and 22.05%, respectively. The infested trees contained high amounts of proline and phenols in both stems and leaves, whereas total carbohydrate and protein contents were low. The highest reduction in the emergent population was recorded with the use of the pesticide Ranous (82.16%) and the application of used motor oil on the trunk (78.15%). <b>Conclusion:</b> The proposed treatment of infested apple trees is painting the trunks during the summer months, when <i>S. myopaeformis</i> activity is high, with motor oil and the pesticide Ranous. The accumulation of phenol and proline in the infested trees indicated a type of direct defense mechanism against <i>S. myopaeformis</i> attacks.

Effect of biosal®, deltamethrin and lambda-cyhalothrin on the activity of GOT, GPT and total protein contents in two fodder pests Hermolaus modestus and Hermolaus ocimumi

The assessment of the comparative effect of biosal (phytopesticide), deltamethrin, and lambda-cyhalothrin (pyrethroids) were made against two fodder pests, Hermolaus modestus and Hermolaus ocimumi by filter paper impregnation method. The activity of total protein contents, GPT (glutamic-pyruvic transaminase) and GOT (glutamic oxaloacetate transaminase) were affected in Hermolaus modestus and Hermolaus ocimumi against biosal, deltamethrin, and lambda cyhalothrin. The activity of total protein contents in H. modestus was 31.053%, 4.607%, and 24.575%, against biosal, deltamethrin, and lambda-cyhalothrin, respectively. The activity of total protein contents was observed as 24.202%, 15.25%, and 56.036% against deltamethrin, lambda-cyhalothrin, and biosal, respectively in H. ocimumi. The activity of GOT was observed as 98.675% for biosal 33.95% for deltamethrin and 83.619% for lambda-cyhalothrin in H. modestus. The GOT activity was estimated in H. ocimumi as 78.831%, 47.645%, and 71.287% against biosal, deltamethrin, and lambda-cyhalothrin, respectively. The efficacy of GPT enzyme against biosal, deltamethrin, and lambda-cyhalothrin was calculated as 89.26%, 73.07%, and 47.58%, respectively in H. modestus. The H. ocimumi showed GPT activity as 77.58% for biosal, 68.84% for deltamethrin, and 52.67% for lambda-cyhalothrin, respectively.

Mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress in liver of male albino rats after exposing to sub-chronic intoxication of chlorpyrifos, cypermethrin, and imidacloprid

The adverse effects of chlorpyrifos, cypermethrin, and imidacloprid on mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress biomarkers were studied in rat liver. The liver deficiency was also confirmed by histological analysis and gel electrophoresis. Each insecticide was administered orally with five doses per week for 28 days to male albino rats at 1/50 of the LD₅₀ per insecticide. The results demonstrated that the mitochondrial dysfunction was confirmed by a significant decrease in NADH dehydrogenase and ATPase activities. Oxidative stress biomarkers include malondialdehyde (MDA), and protein carbonyl content (PCC) were significantly increased. However, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) as antioxidant enzymes were significantly decreased in the mitochondria of the rat liver. HPLC analysis showed a significant increase of the 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OH-2DG) as a biomarker of the DNA damage in rat liver. In addition, the residue levels of 0.96 and 0.29 μg/mL serum were found for cypermethrin and imidacloprid, respectively. However, chlorpyrifos not detected using the HPLC analysis. Blue native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (BN-PAGE) analysis showed a change in the pattern and sequence of complexions of the electron transport chain in liver mitochondria with treatment by such insecticides. The hepatic histological examination also showed symptoms of abnormalities after exposure to these insecticides.

Diazinon exposure reduces bone mineral density in adult and immature rats: A histomorphometric and radiographic study

Diazinon has been widely used as a domestic and agricultural pesticide. This study examined the effects of diazinon on bone mineral density (BMD) of mature and immature rats. For this purpose, 24 adult Wistar rats (male; 8 weeks old) were initially divided into four groups (n = 6). Corn oil was used as the control while diazinon at 15, 30, and 45 mg/kg in corn oil was given to mature rats via gavage per day. Since these dosages were lethal for the immature rats, 12 immature Wistar rats (male; 4 weeks old) (n = 6) were gavaged with corn oil as control and 5 mg/kg of diazinon in corn oil. The animals were sacrificed on day 28 with their left femur bones removed for histomorphometric studies. BMD was measured in the right femur, using standardized radiographs in the femoral head, femoral neck, greater trochanter, and shaft. The Image J Program was used for measuring the bone lamellae and epiphyseal growth plates. The results of this study for the first time revealed that diazinon reduced BMD in both adults and immature rats. Diazinon exposure was associated with diminished trabecular and cortical bone density. Correspondingly, our results indicated that in immature rats, DZN led to the reduction in the epiphyseal growth plate width, both in the proliferation and hypertrophic zones. These results suggested that diazinon might be associated with impaired bone longitudinal growth as well as bone metabolism in adults.

Stereoisomeric selectivity in the endocrine-disrupting potential of cypermethrin using in vitro, in vivo, and in silico assays

Despite the ubiquity of cypermethrin (CYP) stereoisomers in environment biota, the stereoisomeric selectivity of endocrine-disrupting potency of α-CYP, β-CYP, and θ-CYP has not been well studied. In this study, dual-luciferase reporter gene assays were adopted to analyze their potential endocrine-disrupting effects via four receptors (ERα, GRα, MR and RXR). The results showed that α-CYP was antagonistic to ERα, GRα, and MR with RIC₂₀ of 9.1 × 10^-7, 7.6 × 10^-7, and 1.0 × 10^-6 M, respectively. β-CYP exhibited only ERα-mediated agonistic activity with a REC₂₀ of 2.1 × 10^-6 M. None of the CYP stereoisomers interacted with RXR. Molecular docking indicated that α-CYP had the strongest binding capacity to GRα among the compounds. The expression levels of steroid hormone-related genes in human adrenocortical carcinoma (H295R) cells displayed that all three compounds inhibited the transcription of 3-βHSD, indicating the block of turning cholesterol into different hormones. Both α-CYP and β-CYP upregulated genes encoding estrogen- and aldosterone-forming enzymes including 17-βHSD, CYP19, STAR, and CYP11B2. Mortality and malformation toxicity assays in zebrafish embryos revealed that the order of toxicity was α-CYP > β-CYP > θ-CYP. Our results indicated that α-CYP may pose the strongest endocrine-disrupting effects. The data provided here will be helpful to systematically understand stereoisomeric selectivity in the endocrine-disrupting effects of cypermethrin.

Organophosphate pesticide exposure among farm women and children: Status of micronutrients, acetylcholinesterase activity, and oxidative stress

Nutritional status plays a major role in determining the possible adverse health outcomes due to pesticide toxicity. The objective of the present study was to assess the organophosphorus pesticide residue levels among farm women (FW) (24-45years) and farm children (FC) (9-12 and 13-15years) belonging to the Rangareddy district (Telangana, India) along with their micronutrient status, inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activity, and oxidative stress levels. Residues of Chlorpyrifos, Diazinon, Malathion, Monocrotophos and Phosalone were found in the serum samples of FW and FC along with significantly low levels of vitamins and minerals. Inhibition of AChE activity was observed in FW and FC and altered oxidative stress parameters among FW. Correlation studies have found significant associations between the pesticide residues, micronutrients and antioxidant enzymes. The study suggests an association between pesticide exposure coupled with micronutrient deficiency, induced AChE inhibition, and oxidative stress.

Over-gene expression in the apoptotic, oxidative damage and liver injure in female rats exposed to butralin

The present study is the first report for studying the toxic effects of butralin herbicide on COX2, BAX, and Bcl2 gene expression, oxidative stress, and liver damage in female rats. Female rats were received butralin in drinking water for 28 days at concentration 4.16, 312, and 3120 mg/L that corresponded to the acceptable daily intake (ADI), no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL), and 10 NOAEL, respectively. Butralin decreased body weights and increased relative liver weight of female rats exposed to high dose. It caused significant elevation in liver function enzymes, lipid peroxidation, and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Antioxidant enzymes were decreased in liver tissue by increasing the dose. Butralin induced over-expression in the apoptotic related genes including COX2, BAX, and Bcl2 and pathological alteration in the liver of female rats especially at a high dose. It can be concluded that butralin induced oxidative damage and liver injure. The mechanism of damage could be due to generate reactive oxygen species, and increase lipid peroxidation that causes over-expression in the apoptotic related genes including COX2, BAX, and Bcl2. From the Benchmark dose (BMD) approach, there is dose-dependent manner in body weight, AST, ALT, and ALP, and ALT is a very sensitive parameter.

Monitoring of carbaryl and cypermethrin concentrations in water and soil in Southern Malawi

Carbaryl (a carbamate insecticide) and cypermethrin (a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide) are extensively used in agriculture. However, the presence of these insecticides in the environment constitutes a significant source of ecological contamination. This study determined the levels of these insecticides in Lisungwi, Neno District, a cotton-growing area in Southern Malawi. A total of 81 soil samples (500 g each) were collected from six sampling points (33 in dry season and 48 rainy season). A total of 86 water samples (500 ml each) were collected seasonally (20 from shallow wells, 18 from streams, and 48 from boreholes). High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine carbaryl while UV/Vis spectrophotometer detected cypermethrin. Paired t test showed a significant (p < 0.05) difference between rainy season carbaryl (in water and soil) and maximum recommended levels (MRL) (Canadian guidelines and Australian Guidelines). Similarly, a significant (p < 0.05) difference between carbaryl and WHO limits and US MRL was reported in water and soil during the rainy season. A similar observation was made for cypermethrin. Specifically, carbaryl (0.083-0.254 mg/L in surface water and 0.165-0.492 mg/L in groundwater) and cypermethrin (8.115-15.460 mg/L in surface water and 4.48-12.18 mg/L in groundwater) concentrations during the rainy season were above the recommended limits. On the other hand, cypermethrin (0.01-0.048 mg/L) in the soil samples during the rainy season was below the recommended limits while carbaryl (1.67-1.305 mg/L) was above the recommended limits. Higher carbaryl and cypermethrin values were recorded during the rainy season than the dry season. Nitrate, pH, and EC and the insecticides (carbaryl and cypermethrin) depicted strong correlation and significance (p < 0.05), suggesting that these factors influenced their persistence in both soil and water. The study provides evidence that Lisungwi has cypermethrin and carbaryl concentrations above the recommended limits and their presence varies with seasons-a situation considered to be a serious threat to both aquatic biota and humans.

Review of pesticide residue analysis in fruits and vegetables. Pre-treatment, extraction and detection techniques

A wide variety of pesticides have been used in agriculture to increase the yield, quality and extend the storage life of crops. However, the use of pesticide has been increased now a day due to the ever-increasing population and rapid urbanization. The continuous uses of these pesticides have resulted in contamination of the environment, crops and also caused potential risk to human health. For this reason, strict regulations are developed and regulated to monitor these compounds. To date, several techniques have been developed for the extraction and detection of pesticides, from traditional to advanced detection techniques. The present study delineates a comprehensive up to date overview of the available traditional methods (gas chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with various detector) to advanced pre-treatment (polystyrene-coated magnetic nanoparticle) and detection (sensor development and nanotechnology) techniques used in the analysis of pesticides residue in various fruits and vegetables. Also, categorization of pesticides and its toxicity have been discussed.

Identification of markers of depression and neurotoxicity in pesticide exposed agriculture workers

Earlier, we reported that chronic exposure to pesticides causes a reduction in the acetylcholinesterase activity and hematological and biochemical alterations in agriculture workers. In continuation with that, the present study aimed to investigate the pesticide-induced neurochemical imbalance and its association with behavior alterations in agricultural workers. A significant increase in depressive symptoms, assessed by the Beck Depression Inventory-II was observed in pesticide exposed workers as compared to the unexposed. A decrease in the level of dopamine in plasma and levels of dopamine, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, homovanillic acids, norepinephrine, serotonin, and hydroxyindoleacetic acid in urine was also observed. An increase in the levels of MAO-A and MAO-B has also been observed in these individuals. The decreased levels of neurotransmitters in the blood and urine have been linked with increased levels of MAO and pesticide residues in plasma and urine. Furthermore, these changes were associated with a higher incidence of depression in agricultural workers.

Exposure to deltamethrin in adolescent mice induced thyroid dysfunction and behavioral disorders

Deltamethrin (DM) has become one of the most widely used insecticides in the world due to its low toxicity, high efficiency and low persistence in soil. However, it is still unknown whether DM exposure has any effects on the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Thyroid (HPT) axis in adolescent mice. In this study, the open field test and circadian activity test showed that DM exposure increased activity. There was no significant difference between the groups in the light/dark box test and nest building test. Forced swimming test showed that after 6 and 12 mg kg^-1 DM exposure 28 days, the immobility time was increased and the swimming time was reduced. After 6 mg kg^-1 DM treatment, the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) content increased, and thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH), triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) decreased. After exposure to 6 and 12 mg kg^-1 DM, mRNA levels of HPT axis-related genes were destroyed. The histological examination showed that, the DM groups mice thyroid tissues appeared expanded thyroid follicles, scanty colloid and hyperplastic thyroid cells. Western blot results showed that the expression level of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) protein decreased and the content of dopamine transporter (DAT) protein increased in DM treated mice striatum. Collectively, our results indicated that DM exposure could induce thyroid dysfunction and behavioral disorders in adolescent mice.

Health problems from pesticide exposure and personal protective measures among women cotton workers in southern Pakistan

Women are the main cotton pickers in Pakistan even from their childhood, but due to unawareness of pesticide risks and poor knowledge of personal protection opportunities, they typically do not use personal protective measures. Albeit a major agricultural topic in Pakistan, relevant research is limited. The present study illustrates health problems from pesticide exposure during cotton harvest and the use of personal protective measures among 260 female cotton-picking workers from Shaheed Benazirabad District of Sindh Province in southern Pakistan. Skin injury, eye injury, headache, stomachache, and fever were the main health problems due to pesticide exposure according to workers' experience. Medical treatment costs of health problems were more than double (2.48 times higher) than preventive measures costs. More than half of the cotton workers surveyed did not use any protective measure during cotton picking, while 22.3% used a muffler/scarf/cloth for covering their face and 10.8% used gloves. Covering face with muffler/scarf/cloth was higher in young (P < 0.05), married (P < 0.05), and high experienced workers (P < 0.05), while no significant trends were found in the use of gloves. The use of protective measures was positively correlated with education and some experience in cotton picking. Binary logit regression showed that advanced age and high picking experience were positively associated with the use of personal protective measures, while illiteracy, traditional treatment, and medical treatment in case of illness were negatively associated with the use of personal protective measures. Findings shed new light on the topic of personal safety among women cotton pickers in Pakistan. Increasing formal education and implementing training programs for personal protective measures are important to reduce health risk and health cost by pesticides among women workers.

Deltamethrin exposure induces oxidative stress and affects meiotic maturation in mouse oocyte

Pyrethroid insecticides are commonly used as insecticides and considered to be less toxic to mammals, but may still impair the reproduction of animals and humans. The aim of this research was to evaluate the tendency of deltamethrin induced oxidative stress and its effects on meiosis, apoptosis and autophagy of mouse oocytes in vitro maturation after deltamethrin exposure. Especially, the maturation rate of oocytes decreased significantly after 14 h exposure of deltamethrin in concentration-dependent manners, which was manifested as abnormal spindle morphology and DNA double strand breaks. Oxidative stress was found in mouse oocytes exposed to deltamethrin, as shown by changes in the expression of CAT and SOD2. Our results also show that deltamethrin affects the quality of oocytes by causing abnormal mitochondrial distribution and by decreasing mitochondrial membrane potential. The apoptosis of oocyte regulated by the expression of Bax and Bcl-2 protein was obviously affected by deltamethrin. Compared with the control group, the expression of key regulatory factors in the autophagy pathway, LC3, Atg12, Atg14, and Beclin, increased in the experimental group. In summary, these results revealed that deltamethrin might inhibit the maturation of mouse oocytes and adversely affect the survival of oocytes.

Insecticide toxic effects and blood biochemical alterations in occupationally exposed individuals in Punjab, Pakistan

Biomonitoring of people exposed to hazardous materials provides opportunities for early identification of several diseases, particularly in those individuals who are constantly exposed to pesticides, such as pesticide operators and workers in pesticide manufacturing industry. However, data on this hot topic are limited in Pakistan. In this study, insecticide toxic effects and biochemical alterations (i.e., damage in DNA and enzyme activity) were studied in blood samples of occupationally exposed individuals from Punjab, Pakistan. Eight out of twenty-seven blood samples (29.6%) of the pesticide operators were found positive in five insecticides, with the maximum concentration found for chlorpyrifos-methyl (0.039 μg/mL). Eleven out of twenty-seven blood samples (40.7%) of the pesticide industry workers were found positive in eight insecticides, with the maximum concentration found for endosulfan (0.051 μg/mL). Comet tail length was 16.88 ± 4.57 μm in pesticide industry workers and 16.33 ± 3.78 μm in pesticide operators, which were significantly higher (P < 0.01) than that recorded in the control group (4.84 ± 2.21 μm). Values of serum cholinesterase (SChE) concentration were slightly lower (P > 0.05) in exposed individuals, whereas values of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) concentration were significantly higher (P < 0.01) in exposed individuals compared with control group. Exposure duration and total insecticide concentration in blood samples were positively associated with comet tail length, ALT activity, AST activity, and ALP activity, but negatively with SChE. DNA damage was higher in smokers vs. non-smokers. Also, a positive association was found between comet tail length and number of cigarettes per day. Overall, occupational exposure to insecticides can pose serious health risks to pesticide operators and workers in pesticide manufacturing industry, highlighting the necessity of personal protection in those groups for preventing exposure and resultant health disorders.

Effective attenuation of glyphosate-induced oxidative stress and granulosa cell apoptosis by vitamins C and E in caprines

Pesticides are known to cause a wide range of reproductive problems that possess degenerative effects on mammalian fertility. Glyphosate (GLP), a broad-spectrum organophosphate herbicide, is known to be a potent mammalian toxicant. The present study aims at assessing the GLP-induced (0.1, 2.0, and 4.0 mg/ml) granulosa cells toxicity and evaluating the mitigating effects of vitamins C and E (0.5 mM and 1.0 mM) in healthy caprine antral follicles, cultured in vitro in a dose- and time-dependent manner (24, 48, and 72 hr) and subjected to various cytotoxic and geno-toxic analysis, namely, classic histology, EB/AO differential staining, oxidative stress parameters, and antioxidant enzymatic activity. The histomorphological analysis and EB/AO staining elucidated increase in the incidence of apoptotic attributes within granulosa cells with increasing dose and duration of the GLP treatment. The highest apoptotic frequency was observed at 4.0 mg/ml GLP after 72-hr exposure duration in comparison with the control. GLP exposure also led to a significant decline in the antioxidant enzymes' activity, namely, SOD, catalase, and GST along with enhanced lipid peroxidation and reduced FRAP activity in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Vitamins C and E supplementation decreased oxidative stress-mediated granulosa cells apoptosis, suggesting its efficiency to diminish GLP-mediated GCs cytotoxicity and thereby, preventing associated fertility disorders.

Determination of insecticide residues and their adverse effects on blood profile of occupationally exposed individuals

Insecticides, essential for crop protection measures, leave behind several toxic residues that can result in a series of human health disorders. Therefore, this study was planned for the determination of residues and adverse effects of insecticides in blood samples of sprayers, pesticide-industry workers and controls by using blood parameters of these individuals as biomarkers. Optimized analytical methods using GC-MS and HPLC for the simultaneous detection of 22 currently used insecticides were adopted. Eight of twenty-seven (22.22%) sprayers' blood samples were found positive for five different insecticides. Eleven of twenty-seven (40.74%) pesticide-industry workers were found positive for eight different insecticides. The blood samples of both the exposed groups, sprayers and industry workers had significantly (P < 0.001; Mann-Whitney U-tests) low hemoglobin-Hb concentrations (12.17 ± 2.13 and 12.22 ± 2.37 g/dl respectively) than the average value of the control group with 14.23 ± 2.37 g/dl. The erythrocyte sedimentation rates (ESRs) in sprayers and insecticide industry workers (28.78 ± 20.72 and 28.17 ± 25.14 mm/1st h respectively) were greater significantly (P < 0.001; Mann-Whitney U test) than the control blood samples (9.53 ± 3.34 mm/1st h). These results indicate that the exposed individuals have experienced significant hemotoxic effects during insecticide exposure. The study also predicts the risk to exposed individuals in developing countries like Pakistan and demands realization of safety measures to prevent such dangerous effects of pesticide exposures.

Monitoring and spatiotemporal variations of pyrethroid insecticides in surface water, sediment, and fish of the river Chenab Pakistan

There is a serious concern regarding freshwater resources of Pakistan which have been mismanaged and now are depleting extensively due to other reasons like intensive application of agricultural pesticides and insecticides. The present study was conducted to determine the concentrations of cypermethrin, deltamethrin, permethrin, and bifenthrin in the samples of water, sediments, and fish collected from various locations of River Chenab, Pakistan, during summer and winter seasons. These locations include namely Marala, Khanki, Qadirabad, and Trimu Headworks. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was deployed for analysis and determination of pyrethroid concentrations in these samples. The analytics show the order of pyrethroid concentrations in river as fish> sediment>water. Whereas maximum concentrations of 0.472 μg g^-1 found in fish and minimum concentrations were determined in water, i.e., 0.087 μg L^-1 at the sampling locations of Trimu and Marala headworks, respectively. Moreover, highest mean concentrations of pyrethroid, i.e., 1.248 μg g^-1 in fish were detected in winter season as compared to summers, i.e., 0.087 μg L^-1. However, all the values of pyrethroid were found to be lower than the maximum permissible levels specified by EU and WHO-FAO. Whereas the levels of deltamethrin and permethrin in water were found much higher than the specific limits set by EU.

Adverse effects of organophosphorus pesticides on the liver: a brief summary of four decades of research

Organophosphorus pesticides (OPs) are widely used volatile pesticides that have harmful effects on the liver in acute and chronic exposures. This review article summarises and discusses a wide collection of studies published over the last 40 years reporting on the effects of OPs on the liver, in an attempt to propose general mechanisms of OP hepatotoxicity and possible treatment. Several key biological processes have been reported as involved in OP-induced hepatotoxicity such as disturbances in the antioxidant defence system, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and mitochondrial and microsomal metabolism. Most studies show that antioxidants can attenuate oxidative stress and the consequent changes in liver function. However, few studies have examined the relationship between OP structures and the severity and mechanism of their action. We hope that future in vitro, in vivo, and clinical trials will answer the remaining questions about the mechanisms of OP hepatotoxicity and its management.

Pesticides contaminated dust exposure, risk diagnosis and exposure markers in occupational and residential settings of Lahore, Pakistan

There are few studies documenting the dust loaded with pesticides as a potential non-dietary exposure source for occupational worker and populations living near agricultural farms and pesticides formulation plants. In present study we have evaluated the pesticide concentration in dust from potential sites and relevant health risk from dust ingestion. Furthermore, the effect of currently used pesticides was investigated on blood and urine parameters of subjects: farmer, factory worker, urban resident and rural resident and controlled subjects with presumably different levels of exposure. The urinary metabolites (TCPY and IMPY) were quantified as biomarkers of exposure to chlorpyrifos and diazinon in relation with biomarkers of effect including BuChE, LH, FSH, testosterone and oxidative stress. Results showed that chlorpyrifos and diazinon were present in higher concentration in dust and posed a high health risk to exposed subjects. The mean SOD value was high among the farmer (3048U/g Hb) followed by factory worker (1677.6U/g Hb). The urinary biomarkers - TCPY and IMPY- were found higher in exposed subjects as compared to control. Furthermore, testosterone was found in higher concentration in factory worker than control (12.63ng/ml vs 4.61ng/ml respectively). A decreased BuChE activity was noticed in occupational group and significant differences were observed in control verses exposed subjects. The PCA analysis evidenced the impact of pesticides on exposure biomarkers and male reproductive hormones. The study suggests that dust contaminated with pesticides engenders significant health risk particularly related to the nervous and endocrine system, not only for occupational workers exposed to direct ingestion but also for nearby residential community. Succinctly putting: Pesticides loaded dust in the city of Lahore, being a high priority concern for the government of Pakistan, demands to be addressed.

Serum organochlorine pesticides residues and risk of cancer: A case-control study

Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) are frequently used worldwide as insecticides, fungicides, herbicides and termiticides and have been associated with a variety of cancers in animal and human studies. In the present study, we examined residues of fourteen OCPs in the serum samples of diagnosed cancer patients and healthy residents of Karachi, Pakistan. A random collection of fasting blood samples was carried out from the donors with informed consent. Serum was separated within 2 h of blood collection and was then subjected to extraction with organic solvents followed by purification with florisil column. The final organic extract of each serum sample was processed with Gas Chromatograph coupled with Electron Capture Detector (GC-ECD). OCPs were detected in 97.59% of the cancer cases and 93.75% of the healthy subjects. Mean concentrations of total OCPs (ΣOCPs) was found elevated in the cancer group (0.606 mg/kg) compared with the control group (0.322 mg/kg). Endosulfan was the highest prevalent OCP with a mean concentration of 0.214 mg/kg in the cancer group and 0.166 mg/kg in the control group. The second most prevalent OCP was 4,4-DDE with a mean concentration of 0.131 mg/kg in the cancer group and 0.019 mg/kg in the control group. Highest level of ΣOCPs was detected in the breast cancer cases (20.411 mg/kg) with a mean level of (2.041 mg/kg). In light of the obtained results and available literature on the subject, it has been concluded that OCPs are positively associated with the risk of various cancers in humans.

Molecular detection of M. tuberculosis and M. bovis and hematological and biochemical analyses in agricultural sprayers exposed to pesticides: A cross-sectional study in Punjab, Pakistan during 2014-2016

We determined the correlation between a pesticide exposure, physical health and susceptibility toward tuberculosis along with hematological indices and liver enzymes' alterations in sprayers exposed to pesticides. Molecular detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium bovis was detected by targeting histone-like protein (hupB) gene. The WBC (white blood cells) and RBC (red blood cells) levels of male sprayers and non-sprayers were significantly different (P<0.05). In female spray workers, the WBC and neutrophils levels were significantly different as compared with non-sprayers. Overall, in both male and female pesticide-exposed sprayers, mean values of alanine amino transferase and aspartate amino transferase were higher as compared with unexposed workers. M. Tuberculosis were detected in 15% male sprayers and 36% female sprayers while, M. bovis was detected in 5% male sprayers and 10% female sprayers. A χ²-test indicated that there existed a significant different (P<0.05) between positive and negative M. tuberculosis and M. bovis in both male/female spray workers out of total. The susceptibility of pesticide-exposed sprayers to tuberculosis and alterations in hematology and liver enzymes is crucial for health. Toxic effects of pesticides may lead to a weak immune system and increased tuberculosis susceptibility.

Hepatotoxicity, Nephrotoxicity and Oxidative Stress in Rat Testis Following Exposure to Haloxyfop-p-methyl Ester, an Aryloxyphenoxypropionate Herbicide

Haloxyfop-p-methyl ester (HPME) ((R)-2-{4-[3-chloro-5-(trifluoromethyl)-2-pyridyloxy]phenoxy}propionic acid), is a selective aryloxyphenoxypropionate (AOPP) herbicide. It exerts phytotoxicity through inhibition of lipid metabolism and induction of oxidative stress in susceptible plants. This study investigated the toxicological potentials of HPME in rats. Twenty-four male Wistar rats (170–210 g) were randomized into four groups (I–IV). Group I (control) received 1 mL of distilled water, while animals in Groups II, III and IV received 6.75, 13.5 and 27 mg/kg body weight HPME, respectively, for 21 days. There was a significant (p < 0.05) increase in renal and hepatic function biomarkers (urea, creatinine, total bilirubin, ALP, ALT, AST) in the plasma of treated animals compared to control. Levels of testicular antioxidants, ascorbic acid and glutathione, and activities of glutathione-S-transferase, superoxide dismutase and catalase were reduced significantly after 21 days of HPME administration in a dose-dependent manner. The testicular malondialdehyde level increased significantly in the HPME-treated rats relative to the control. A significant decrease in testicular lactate dehydrogenase, acid phosphatase and γ-glutamyl transferase was also observed in HPME-treated animals. Testicular histology revealed severe interstitial edema and sections of seminiferous tubules with necrotic and eroded germinal epithelium in the HPME-treated rats. Overall, data from this study suggest that HPME altered hepatic and renal function and induced oxidative stress and morphological changes in the testis of rats.

Phytochemical and toxicological investigations of crude methanolic extracts, subsequent fractions and crude saponins of Isodon rugosus

BACKGROUND

Isodon rugosus is used traditionally in the management of hypertension, rheumatism, tooth-ache and pyrexia. Present study was arranged to investigate I. rugosus for phytoconstituents, phytotoxic and cytotoxic activities to explore its toxicological, pharmacological potentials and to rationalize its ethnomedicinal uses. Briefly, qualitative phytochemical analysis of the plant extracts were carried out for the existence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, oils, glycosides, anthraquinones, terpenoids, sterols and tannins. Plant crude methanolic extract (Ir.Cr), its subsequent fractions; n-hexane (Ir.Hex), chloroform (Ir.Chf), ethyl acetate (Ir.EtAc), aqueous (Ir.Aq) and saponins (Ir.Sp) in different concentrations were tested for phytotoxic and cytotoxic activities using radish seeds and brine shrimps (Artemia salina) respectively. The phytotoxic activity was determined by percent root length inhibition (RLI) and percent seeds germination inhibition (SGI) while the cytotoxicity was obtained with percent lethality of the brine shrimps.

RESULTS

Ir.Cr was tested positive for the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, oils, terpenoids, saponins, tannins and anthraquinones. Among different fractions Ir.Sp, Ir.Chf, Ir.EtAc, and Ir.Cr were most effective causing 93.55, 89.32, 81.32 and 58.68% inhibition of seeds in phytotoxicity assay, with IC50 values of 0.1, 0.1, 0.1 and 52 μg/ml respectively. Similarly, among all the tested samples, Ir.Sp exhibited the highest phytotoxic effect causing 91.33% root length inhibition with IC50 of 0.1 μg/ml. Ir.Sp and Ir.Chf were most effective against brine shrimps showing 92.23 and 76.67% lethality with LC50 values of 10 and 12 μg/ml respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

It may be inferred from the current investigations that I. rugosus contains different secondary metabolites and is a potential source for the isolation of natural anticancer and herbicidal drug molecules. Different fractions exhibited phytotoxic and cytotoxic activities, thus providing pharmacological basis for ethnomedicinal uses of this plant.

Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in South Asian region: a review

Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) are semi volatile organic compounds of global concern. During the last decades, their distribution, sources, transformation, toxicity and accumulation in the terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems have gained significant attention. Many of these chemicals are characterized by long range atmospheric transport potential, and their occurrence in remote areas is attributed to transport of chemicals from places where OCPs are still in use. The South Asia region is a place where primarily emissions are still taking place and thus it is important to assess the status of OCPs pollution. This document provides the historical overview and country specific environmental legislation of OCPs from the South Asian region in the context of their illegal use and storage for extended periods and still until to date. In addition, the current review discusses the existing knowledge on the levels and distribution of OCPs in different environmental compartments of South Asian region. Data on OCPs also highlights the risk assessment of these organic contaminants in the regional environment and spans the long range atmospheric transport phenomena based on Himalayas and Northern mountainous glaciers. Paradoxically in the scientific literature sources, distribution and transport of these organic pollutants in South Asian region are very limited compared to the rest of the world.

Spatial distribution of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and effect of soil characters: a case study of a pesticide producing factory

The distribution and concentration of some organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in the soil around a pesticide factory in Zibo, China, were examined, including dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and its metabolites, isomers of hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) and endosulfan (ENDO). The results showed that the OCPs concentrations were extraordinary high in this region. The concentrations of DDTs, HCHs, and ENDO were measured in the range of 0.775-226.711, 0.248-42.838, and 0.081-1.644 mg kg(-1), respectively. DDT and its isomers were identified to be the dominate contaminants in most of the sampling sites. In the vertical direction, the distribution pattern of the total OCPs was in order of DDTs, HCHs, and ENDO in the 0-20 cm, but in 20-40 and 40-60 cm the trends were unobvious. Although no recent input occurred in most areas, the residues of OCPs remained in deep soil due to their persistence. Unlike ENDO, DDTs and HCHs appeared to have the similar property in terms of not only the migration pattern in soil, but also the relationship to the same dominant impact factor (i.e. organic matter). DDTs and HCHs were affected positively by the organic matter, whereas ENDO was affected negatively. Due to the interrelationship among various impact factors, the spatial distribution of pesticides in the soil was considered to be a combined result.

Evaluation of diazinon-induced hepatotoxicity and protective effects of crocin

Diazinon (DZN) is one of the most widely used insecticides in agricultural pest control. Previous studies have shown that DZN may induce hepatotoxicity. Reactive oxygen species and apoptosis pathways are involved in the toxicity of DZN. Crocin, a constituent of saffron, has hepatoprotective effects due to its antioxidant activity. In this study, we examined the effects of subacute DZN exposure and ameliorating effect of crocin on lipid peroxidation and pathological changes in rat liver. Moreover, protein levels of activated and total caspases-3 and -9 and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio were measured. Five groups of rats were used in the experiment. Corn oil (control), DZN (15 mg/kg per day, orally) and crocin (12.5, 25 and 50 mg/kg per day, intraperitoneally in combination with DZN) were given to male Wistar rats ( n = 6) for 4 weeks. The level of malondialdehyde (MDA) increased significantly in DZN group compared with the control group ( p < 0.05). MDA level decreased significantly in the group that received DZN plus 25 mg crocin ( p < 0.001). No gross or histological evidence of treatment-related damage to the liver after oral exposure to DZN was observed. DZN also induced apoptosis through activation of caspases-9 and -3 and increasing Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. Crocin attenuated the activation of caspases and reduced the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. It is concluded that subacute exposure to DZN induces oxidative stress-mediated apoptosis and crocin may reduce DZN-induced hepatotoxicity.

Oxidative stress, hematological and biochemical alterations in farmers exposed to pesticides

In this study, a cohort of farmers from the Mateur region in the North of Tunisia, were interviewed and examined for the biochemical effects of pesticides. We studied their haematological profile, lipid parameters, serum markers of nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity. We also evaluated the activities of Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and thiolactonase-paroxonase (PON). Moreover, lipid peroxidation and activities of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were determined. The duration of pesticide use and the farmers' age were considered in the analysis. Our results revealed significant differences in some haematological parameters, in liver and kidney functions, in the lipidic status of the pesticide-exposed group. We also reported an increase in the index of incidence of cardiovascular risk in farmer populations. A significant decrease in AChE, BChE and PON levels was found among farmers. Lipid peroxidation, however, increased. The activities of SOD and CAT were remarkably elevated in farmer populations. There was a significant relation between changes in biological markers, the duration of pesticide use and the farmers' age. This study indicates that a long-term exposure to pesticides may play an important role in the development of vascular diseases via metabolic disorders of lipoproteins, lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress, inhibition of BChE and decrease in thiolactonase-PON levels.

Assessment of pesticide exposure in female population living in cotton growing areas of Punjab, Pakistan

The exposure assessment study was conducted in the southern Punjab, the cotton growing area of Pakistan among two female groups, one as cotton pickers (occupationally exposed) and the other group as non-pickers. The average blood cholinesterase activity before the spraying in non-pickers were found to be 5.32 ± 0.70 kU/L with the average activity of female cotton pickers 5.31 ± 1.12 kU/L. Whereas, due to environmental contamination the average activity of enzyme cholinesterase (ChE) was calculated to be 4.80 ± 1.08 kU/L in non picker's blood samples, collected after exposure to pesticides (post-season) as compared to 2.81 ± 1.32 kU/L in female cotton pickers. All these values were found be in the normal range. The mean values of ChE were found significantly different (1.95) among various groups when statistically analyzed by Z-test (α = 0.05). The effects of pesticides found equal in both groups of female were discussed in detail with common symptoms observed in majority of cotton pickers.

Biological alterations and self-reported symptoms among insecticides-exposed workers in Burkina Faso

Occupationally exposed workers, farm workers and plant protection agents in the Sahel region of Burkina Faso were interviewed to assess adverse health effects of insecticides. The subjects were also examined for changes in both hematological and biochemical parameters. The prevalence of liver and kidney dysfunction was found to be quite high among insecticide applicators, especially among plant protection agents. The prevalence of biochemical alterations seems to be correlated to the frequency of insecticide use. However, no significant differences were found between the hematological parameters among farm workers and plant protection agents. The hematological parameters of all the insecticide applicators were normal. The great majority of insecticide applicators (85%) reported symptoms related to insecticide exposure. The use of insecticides in the agriculture of Burkina Faso is threatening to human health.

Accumulation levels and characteristics of some pesticides in human adipose tissue samples from Southeast China

This paper presents a comprehensive study of pesticide levels and bio-accumulation characteristics in human adipose tissues among residents of Southeast China. A large number of adipose samples (n=633) were selected for 58 pesticides and were analyzed by high sensitive Gas Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). The results showed that POPs pesticides were frequently detected, including 2,4'-DDD, 2,4'-DDE, 2,4'-DDT, 4,4'-DDD, 4,4'-DDE, 4,4'-DDT, α-HCH, β-HCH, γ-HCH, δ-HCH, hexachlorobenzene (HCB), and mirex. Other detected pesticide species were dicofol, methamidophos and chlordimeform, which have rarely been reported. Comparing to different countries, the concentrations of total DDT and HCH in these three Chinese southeastern sites were in the middle range, whereas the HCB and mirex were in the lower end. A significant correlation was observed between region as well as age and POPs pesticide levels. Some pesticide residue levels were also found significantly correlated to occupation. However, there was no significant correlation between gender and pesticides. Meanwhile, it is interesting to find that mortality of malignant tumors tends to associate with the pesticides levels in human adipose tissue. More importantly, the measured data presented in this study provide realistic information which is useful for assessing human exposure to pesticides in the general population of Southeast China.

Organochlorine residual concentrations in cattle egret from the Punjab Province, Pakistan

In this study, residual concentration of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in the sediments, prey, and eggs of Bubulcus ibis were measured from three breeding heronries from the Punjab province of Pakistan. Pattern of contamination in eggs followed the order: DDTs>HCHs>heptachlor>aldrin. Overall, pesticide residual concentrations were greater in eggs of cattle egrets collected from heronry on the River Ravi. Among HCHs, γ-HCH was more prevalent in eggs, whereas DDTs followed the order: DDD>DDE>p,p'-DDT>o,p'-DDT. Eggshell thinning was detected which showed negative relationship with residual concentration of DDE. In prey samples, residual concentration of POPs followed the order: DDTs>HCHs>dicofol>heptachlor; however, contamination pattern in sediments followed a slightly different order: DDTs>heptachlor>dicofol>HCHs>dieldrin>aldrin. Concentration of β-HCH was more prevalent in sediments and comparatively greater concentrations of POPs were measured in sediments collected from the River Ravi. Dicofol was found for the very first time in the biological samples from Pakistan, and its concentration was measured as relatively high in eggs from heronry from the River Chenab. Residual concentrations measured in eggs were below the levels that could affect egret populations. Biomagnification of the total OCPs through the food chain was evident in three breeding heronries. The concentration of DDE measured in eggs of the cattle egret suggests the need for monitoring this contaminant in other bird species at different trophic levels.

Monitoring health implications of pesticide exposure in factory workers in Pakistan

The study aimed to determine the hazardous health effects of pesticides exposure in the factory workers by measuring plasma cholinesterase (PChE), pesticides residues, and renal and hepatic biochemical markers. In addition, we also assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and safety practices adopted by the industrial workers. The study was conducted in three different sizes of factories located in Lahore (large), Multan (medium), and Karachi (small) in Pakistan. Total 238 adult males consisting of 184 pesticide industrial workers (exposed group) from large-sized (67), medium-sized (61), small-sized (56) industrial formulation factories, and 54 controls (unexposed) were included in the study. All the participants were male of aged 18 to 58 years. PChE levels were estimated by Ellmann's method. Plasma pesticides residue analysis was performed by using reverse phase C-18 on high-performance liquid chromatograph and GC with NPD detector. Plasma alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatinine, urea, and gamma glutamyltransferase (GGT) were measured on Selectra E auto analyzer. Plasma and C-reactive protein was analyzed by Immulite 1000. The results revealed a significant decrease in plasma post exposure PChE levels (<30%) as compared to baseline in the workers of small (29%) and medium (8%) industrial units (p < 0.001). Plasma cypermethrin, endosulfan, imidacloprid, thiodicarb, carbofuran, and methamidophos levels were found to be higher than allowable daily intake. Serum AST, ALT, creatinine GGT, malondialdehyde, total antioxidant, and CRP were significantly raised among the workers of small and medium pesticide formulation factories as compared to large industrial unit and controls (p < 0.001). The study demonstrated that unsafe practices among small- and medium-sized pesticides industrial workers cause significant increase in pesticide exposure, oxidative stress, and derangement of hepatic and renal function.

Risk assessment of pesticide exposure on health of Pakistani tobacco farmers

Tobacco is an important cash crop of Pakistan. Pesticides are commonly used to increase the crop yield, but their health impact has not been studied yet. The objectives of the study were to determine the frequency of pesticide poisoning and to explore the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) towards safety measures among the tobacco farmers in Swabi, Pakistan. One hundred and five tobacco farmers involved in pesticide application were randomly selected from two villages of district Swabi. A structured questionnaire was used for clinical and KAP information. Plasma cholinesterase (PChE) levels were measured by Ellman's method by using GD Italy kits. All tobacco farmers were males with a mean (SD) age of 26 (9) years. The majority of the farmers reported multiple symptoms headache, dizziness, vomiting, shortness of breath, muscle weakness and skin rash correlate with the clinically significant depression of PChE levels. Out of 105 pesticide applicators, 58 (55%) had post-exposure reduction in PChE levels <20% from baseline, 35 (33%) had mild poisoning (20-40% reduction) and 12 (11%) had moderate poisoning (>40% reduction). Most of the farmers did not use any personal protective equipment during pesticide handling. Only a few used shoes (31%), masks (14%) and gloves (9%) during pesticide spray. In conclusion, the tobacco farmers had mild to moderate pesticide poisoning, which was correlated with depression in PChE levels. Moreover, most farmers had little knowledge about the safety measures, casual attitude and unsatisfactory safety practices with regard to the use of basic protective equipments during pesticide applications on the tobacco crop.

Free radicals are present in human serum of Catha edulis Forsk (Khat) abusers

OBJECTIVE

Khat (Catha edulis Forsk) is a naturally occurring drug with an amphetamine-like structure and action. It has been postulated that amphetamine induces free radical formation. On this basis, we have hypothesized that Khat may promote synthesis of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species in the same way that amphetamine promotes free radical production.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty male subjects were enrolled in two groups: those with a chronic Khat chewing habit (n=20), and those without a chewing habit (controls; n=20). Both groups were matched with regard to age. Total antioxidant capacity and cholinesterase (AChE) activity were assayed.

RESULTS

This study showed that Khat consumption inhibited serum free radical scavenging enzymes, resulting in significant elevations in free radical loads (p=0.01; n=20). We also showed that serum acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) was significantly inhibited in the Khat chewing group (p=0.002; n=20).

CONCLUSION

These results show for the first time that Khat may contribute to high levels of free radicals. In addition, the presence of pesticides in Khat leaves is implicated in the inhibition of AChE activity.