An Overview on the Effect of Neonicotinoid Insecticides on Mammalian Cholinergic Functions through the Activation of Neuronal Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors

The stoichiometry of the α4β2 neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors determines the pharmacological properties of the neonicotinoids, and recently introduced butenolide and sulfoximine

Although neonicotinoids were considered safe for mammals for many decades, recent research has proven that these insecticides can alter cholinergic functions by interacting with neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine (ACh) receptors (nAChRs). One such receptor is the heteromeric α4β2 nAChR, which exists under two different stoichiometries: high sensitivity and low sensitivity α4β2 nAChRs. To replace these insecticides, new classes of insecticides have been developed, such as, sulfoximine, sulfoxaflor, and the butenolide, flupyradifurone. In this study, we injected Xenopus laevis oocytes with 1:10 and 10:1 α4:β2 subunit RNA ratios, in order to express the high (α4)2(β2)3 and low sensitivity (α4)3(β2)2 nAChRs. Using the two-electrode voltage-clamp technique, we found that the low sensitivity (α4)3(β2)2 nAChRs were activated by all tested insecticides, whereas the high sensitivity (α4)2(β2)3 nAChR was only activated by ACh. Imidacloprid, sulfoxaflor and flupyradifurone confirmed their agonist effects by reducing the responses to the ACh EC80 concentrations, for both low (α4)3(β2)2 and high sensitivity (α4)2(β2)3 stoichiometries. Clothianidin only inhibited ACh responses of the low sensitivity (α4)3(β2)2 stoichiometry. Mutation E226P in the α4 subunit of the low sensitivity (α4)3(β2)2 receptors inhibits the agonist potency of imidacloprid and flupyradifurone, whereas mutation L273T (in the β2 subunit) in the high sensitivity (α4)2(β2)3 nAChR leads to activation by all insecticides. Major agonist effects were found with the double mutation of the E226P in the α4 subunit, and the L273T in the β2 subunit of the high sensitivity (α4)2(β2)3 stoichiometry.

Sodium persulfate activated by solar radiation to generate sulfate anion radicals for degradation of the insecticide thiamethoxam in water

The degradation of the neonicotinoid insecticide Thiamethoxam (TMX) by the oxidizing agent sodium persulfate (SP) activated by H2O2, peracetic acid (PAA), pH, solar radiation, heating and sonication, also using combinations between the activators was evaluated. The optimal dosage of SP in the process was 10 mmol L-1 and at this concentration the oxidants hydrogen peroxide and PAA did not contribute to the increase in TMX degradation even when exposed to solar radiation. Under conditions of greater acidity and exposure to solar radiation, the degradation efficiency of TMX increased and continued for days, even with sample storage in the absence of light. The process promoted a drastic reduction in the pH of the medium, meaning that it always occurred at an acidic pH, regardless of the initial pH. The degradation kinetics of TMX can be described by a Pseudo-second order model with higher reaction rate in acidic medium. Analysis employing a sequestering agent (isopropyl alcohol) indicated that the degradation efficiency of the process can be attributed to the generation of HO• and SO4-• radicals. Ecotoxicological analyses show greater toxicity of the sample after TMX degradation.

Effect of Insecticides Imidacloprid and Alpha-Cypermethrin on the Development of Pea (Pisum sativum L.) Nodules

Insecticides are used commonly in agricultural production to defend plants, including legumes, from insect pests. It is a known fact that insecticides can have a harmful effect on the legume-rhizobial symbiosis. In this study, the effects of systemic seed treatment insecticide Imidor Pro (imidacloprid) and foliar insecticide Faskord (alpha-cypermethrin) on the structural organization of pea (Pisum sativum L.) nodules and their transcriptomic activity were investigated. The plants were treated as recommended by the manufacturer (10 mg/mL for Imidor Pro and 50 µg/mL for Faskord) and twofold concentrations were used for both insecticides. Insecticides had no visible effect on the growth of pea plants. The nodules also showed no visible changes, except for the variant treated with twofold concentration of Imidor Pro. However, the dry weight of shoots and roots differed significantly in insecticide-treated plants compared to untreated plants in almost all treatments. The number of nodules decreased in variants with Imidor Pro treatment. At the ultrastructural level, both insecticides caused cell wall deformation, poly-β-hydroxybutyrate accumulation in bacteroids, expansion of the peribacteroid space in symbiosomes, and inclusions in vacuoles. Treatment with Faskord caused chromatin condensation in nucleus. Imidor Pro treatment caused hypertrophy of infection droplets by increasing the amount of matrix, as confirmed by immunofluorescence analysis of extensins. Transcriptome analysis revealed upregulation of expression of a number of extensin-like protein-coding genes in nodules after the Imidor Pro treatment. Overall, both insecticides caused some minor changes in the legume-rhizobial system when used at recommended doses, but Faskord, an enteric contact insecticide, has fewer negative effects on symbiotic nodules and legume plants; of these two insecticides, it is preferred in pea agricultural production.

Central nervous system disturbances by thiamethoxam in Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica): In vivo, ex vivo, and in silico study

The neurotoxic effects of neonicotinoids (NEOs) have been widely reported in relation to the poisoning of wild birds, yet the underlying molecular mechanism has remained elusive. This study employed Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica) and primary quail embryonic neurons as in vivo and ex vivo models, respectively, to investigate the neurotoxic effects and mechanism of thiamethoxam (TMX), a representative neonicotinoid insecticide, at environmentally relevant concentrations. Following a 28-day exposure to TMX, metabolomic analysis of quail brain revealed TMX-induced changes in glutamatergic, GABA-ergic, and dopaminergic function. Subsequent ex vivo and in silico experimentation revealed that the activation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and calcium signaling, induced by clothianidin (CLO), the primary metabolite of TMX, served as upstream events for the alterations in neurotransmitter synthesis, metabolism, release, and uptake. Our findings propose that the disruption of the central nervous system, caused by environmentally significant concentrations of NEOs, may account for the avian poisoning events induced by NEOs.

Sensitivity Variations in Developmental Toxicity of Imidacloprid to Zebrafish Embryos at Different Neurodevelopmental Stages

Neonicotinoids are ubiquitous in global surface waters and pose a significant risk to aquatic organisms. However, information is lacking on the variations in sensitivity of organisms at different developmental stages to the neurotoxic neonicotinoids. We established a spectrum of toxicity to zebrafish embryos at four neurodevelopmental stages (1, 3, 6, and 8 h post fertilization [hpf]) and dechorionated embryos at 6 hpf based on external and internal exposure to imidacloprid as a representative neonicotinoid. Embryos at the gastrula stage (6 and 8 hpf) were more sensitive to imidacloprid than embryos at earlier developmental stages. Dechorionated embryos were more sensitive to imidacloprid than embryos with a chorion, suggesting that the chorion offers protection against pollutants. Nine sublethal effects were induced by imidacloprid exposure, among which uninflated swim bladder (USB) was the most sensitive. Water depth and air availability in the exposure chambers were critical factors influencing the occurrence of USB in zebrafish larvae. Internal residues of metabolites accounted for <10% of imidacloprid, indicating that imidacloprid was metabolized in a limited fashion in the embryos. In addition, acute toxicity of the main metabolite 5-hydroxy-imidacloprid was significantly lower than that of imidacloprid, indicating that the observed toxicity in embryos exposed to imidacloprid was mainly induced by the parent compound. Our research offers a fresh perspective on choosing the initial exposure time in zebrafish embryo toxicity tests, particularly for neurotoxicants. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:2398-2408. © 2024 SETAC.

Associations between Neonicotinoid, Pyrethroid, and Organophosphate Insecticide Metabolites and Neurobehavioral Performance in Ecuadorian Adolescents

Background

Organophosphate and pyrethroid insecticides can affect children's neurodevelopment and increase inflammation. Limited evidence exists among adolescents and on whether inflammation may mediate pesticide-neurobehavior associations. We examined the associations between insecticide metabolite concentrations and neurobehavior among adolescents in Ecuadorian agricultural communities.

Methods

We included 520 participants aged 11-17 years. We measured urinary insecticide metabolites (mass spectrometry) and neurobehavior (NEPSY-II). Associations were adjusted for socio-demographic and anthropometric characteristics. The associations of insecticide mixtures with neurobehavior were evaluated using PLS regression, and mediation by inflammatory biomarkers (TNF-α, IL-6, CRP, SAA, sICAM-1, sVCAM-1 and sCD-14) was conducted.

Results

Among organophosphates, para-nitrophenol (PNP) and 3,5,6-Trichloro-2-pyridinol (TCPy) were inversely associated with Social Perception (score difference per 50% increase [β 50% ] = -0.26 [95%CI: - 1.07, -0.20] and -0.10 [-0.22, 0.01], respectively). PNP and TCPy also had significant inverse associations with Attention/Inhibitory Control at concentrations >60 th percentile (β 50% = -0.26 [95%CI: -0.51, -0.01] and β 50% = -0.22 [95%CI: -0.43, -0.00], respectively). The pyrethroid, 3-phenoxybenzoic acid (3-PBA), was inversely associated with Language (β 50% = -0.13 [95%CI: -0.19, -0.01]) and had a negative quadratic association with Attention/Inhibitory Control. The neonicotinoid 5-Hydroxy imidacloprid (OHIM) was positively associated with Memory/Learning (β 50% = 0.20 [95%CI: 0.04, 0.37]). Mixtures of all insecticides were significantly negatively related to all domains, except for Memory/Learning, which was positively associated. No mediation by inflammatory markers on these associations was observed.

Conclusions

Concurrent organophosphate, pyrethroid, and the mixtures of all metabolites were associated with lower performance in all domains except for Memory/Learning. Neonicotinoids were positively associated with Memory/Learning and Social Perception scores.

Assessment of the Interaction of Acetylcholinesterase Binding with Bioactive Compounds from Coffee and Coffee Fractions Digested In Vitro in the Gastrointestinal Tract

The aim of the study was to evaluate the degree of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition by green and light- and dark-roasted coffee extracts and their fractions after digestion in a simulated gastrointestinal tract. The analysis was carried out using isothermal titration calorimetry, molecular docking, and dynamics simulations. The results showed that 3-O-caffeoylquinic acid binds strongly to AChE through hydrogen interactions with the amino acids ARG289A, HIS440A, and PHE288A and hydrophobic interactions with TYR121A in the active site of the enzyme. The Robusta green coffee extract (ΔG = -35.87 kJ/mol) and dichlorogenic acid fraction (ΔG = -19-29 kJ/mol) showed the highest affinity. Dichlorogenic acids (3,4-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid, 4,5-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid, and 3,4-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid) have high affinity for AChE as single compounds (ΔG(ITC) = -48.99-55.36 kJ/mol, ΔG(LF/AD) = -43.38-45.38 kJ/mol). The concentration necessary to reduce AChE activity by 50% amounted to 0.22 μmol/μmol chlorogenic acids to the enzyme.

The inappropriate application of imidacloprid destroys the ability of predatory natural enemies to control pests in the food chain: A case study of the feeding behavior of Orius similis on Frankliniella occidentalis

Insecticides are an indispensable and important tool for agricultural production. However, the inappropriate application of insecticides can cause damage to the food chain and ecosystem. Orius similis is an important predatory and natural enemy of Frankliniella occidentalis. Imidacloprid is widely used to control pests, but will inevitably exert adverse effects on O. similis. In order to determine the effect of different imidacloprid treatments on the ability of O. similis to prey on the 2nd-instar nymphs of F. occidentalis, we determined the toxicity and predation of imidacloprid on different stages of O. similis under contact and ingestion treatments. In addition, we used the Holling disc equation to evaluate the ability of O. similis to search and exhibit predatory activity following contact and ingestion treatments. Analysis showed that the highest LC10 and LC20 values for imidacloprid contact and ingestion toxicity treatment were 17.06 mg/L and 23.74 mg/L, respectively. Both imidacloprid treatments led toa reduction in the predatory of O. similis on prey. The functional responses of the 3rd to 5th instar nymphs, along with female and male O. similis adults to the 2nd-instar nymphs of F. occidentalis were consistent with the Holling type II response following contact and ingestion with imidacloprid. However, following imidacloprid treatment, the handing time (Th) of O. similis with single F. occidentalis was prolonged and the instantaneous attack rate (a) was reduced after imidacloprid treatment. The predatory capacity (a/Th) of female O. similis adults when treated with the LC10 concentration of imidacloprid by ingestion was 52.85; this was lower than that of the LC10 concentration of imidacloprid in the contact treatment (57.67). The extent of predation of O. similis on the 2nd-instar nymphs of F. occidentalis was positively correlated with prey density, although the search effect was negatively correlated with prey density. The most extensive search effect was exhibited by adult O. similis females. Simulations with the Hessell-Varley interference model showed that an increase in the number of O. similis would reduce search efficiency regardless of whether they were treated with imidacloprid or not. Thus, O. similis, especially female adults, exhibited strong potential for controlling the 2nd-instar nymphs of F. occidentalis. The toxicity of ingestion following treatment with the same concentration of imidacloprid in O. similis was greater than that of contact treatment. When using O. similis to control F. occidentalis in the field, we should increase the number of female adults released, and prolong the interval between imidacloprid treatment and O. similis exposure. This strategy will improve the control ability of O. similis, coordinate both chemical and biological control, reduce the impact of pesticides on the environment, and improve the efficiency of agricultural production.

Reproductive effects of pubertal exposure to neonicotinoid thiacloprid in immature male mice

Thiacloprid (THIA) is a kind of neonicotinoid, a widely used insecticide class. Animal studies of adult and prenatal exposure to THIA have revealed deleterious effects on mammalian sperm fertility and embryonic development. A recent cross-sectional study linked higher THIA concentrations to delayed genitalia development stages in adolescent boys, suggesting that pubertal exposure to THIA may adversely affect reproductive development in immature males. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the effects of daily oral administration of THIA during puberty on the reproductive system of developing male mice. Young male C57 BL/6 J mice aged 21 days were administrated with THIA at concentrations of 10 (THIA-10), 50 (THIA-50) and 100 mg/kg (THIA-100) for 4 weeks by oral gavage. It is found that exposure to 100 mg/kg THIA diminished sexual behavior in immature male mice, caused a decrease in the spermatogenic cell layers and irregular arrangement of the seminiferous epithelium, and down-regulated the mRNA levels of spermatogenesis-related genes Ddx4, Scp3, Atg5, Crem, and Ki67, leading to an increase of sperm abnormality rate. In addition, THIA exposure at 50 and 100 mg/kg reduced the serum levels of testosterone and FSH, and decreased the expression levels of Star and Cyp11a1 related to testosterone biosynthesis. THIA exposure at 10 mg/kg did not produce any of the above significant changes. In conclusion, the high dose of THIA exposure impaired reproductive function in immature mice. It seems that THIA has no detrimental effects on the reproductive system of mice at low dose of 10 mg/kg.

Proteomic responses in the human dopaminergic LUHMES cell line to imidacloprid and its metabolites imidacloprid-olefin and desnitro-imidacloprid

Neonicotinoids (neonics) are amongst the most commonly used class of pesticides globally. In the United States, imidacloprid (IMI) is extensively used for agriculture and in other common applications such as house-hold pest control. Regular exposure to IMI, and several of its known metabolites including IMI-olefin and desnitro-imidacloprid (DN-IMI), has been shown to be harmful to many organisms including mammals, birds, and fish. Studies show that neonics bind human nicotinicacetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) and cause cellular toxicity. In the dopaminergic Lund human mesencephalic (LUHMES) cell line, IMI and other neonics (10-100 μM) have been recently shown to activate intracellular calcium signaling through nAChRs. Thus, we examined proteomic responses of LUHMES cells to a 48-h treatment with 50 μM IMI, IMI-olefin, or DN-IMI. Our findings show differential effects of these neonics on cellular protein expression. Bioinformatic analysis of significantly altered proteins indicates an effect of IMI, IMI-olefin, and DN-IMI on protein synthesis and ribosomal function. These findings suggest a role for protein synthesis and transcriptional regulation in neonic-mediated dopaminergic neurotoxicity.

Screening of Toxic Effects of Neonicotinoid Insecticides with a Focus on Acetamiprid: A Review

Recently, neonicotinoids have become the fastest-growing class of insecticides in conventional crop protection, with extensive usage against a wide range of sucking and chewing pests. Neonicotinoids are widely used due to their high toxicity to invertebrates, simplicity, flexibility with which they may be applied, and lengthy persistence, and their systemic nature ensures that they spread to all sections of the target crop. However, these properties raise the risk of environmental contaminations and potential toxicity to non-target organisms. Acetamiprid is a new generation insecticide, which is a safer alternative for controlling insect pests because of its low toxicity to honeybees. Acetamiprid is intended to target nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in insects, but its widespread usage has resulted in negative impacts on non-target animals such as mammals. This review summarizes in vivo and in vitro animal studies that investigated the toxicity of specific neonicotinoids. With summarized data, it can be presumed that certain concentrations of neonicotinoids in the reproductive system cause oxidative stress in the testis; spermatogenesis disruption; spermatozoa degradation; interruptions to endocrine function and Sertoli and Leydig cell function. In the female reproductive system, acetamiprid evokes pathomorphological alterations in follicles, along with metabolic changes in the ovaries.

Developmental exposure of zebrafish to neonicotinoid pesticides: Long-term effects on neurobehavioral function

Neonicotinoid compounds are commonly used insecticides which have become increasingly used as replacements of older generations of insecticides, such as organophosphates. Given the established neurotoxicity of cholinergic toxicants, developmental neurotoxicity studies are needed to identify in vertebrate species the potential toxicity of these insecticides which act on nicotinic cholinergic receptors. Previously, developmental exposure to a neonicotinoid insecticide imidacloprid was shown to cause persisting neurobehavioral toxicity in zebrafish. The current study evaluated neurobehavioral effects of embryonic exposure to two other neonicotinoid insecticides, clothianidin (1-100 µM) and dinotefuran (1-100 µM) in zebrafish (5-120 h post-fertilization), concentrations below the threshold for increased lethality and overt dysmorphogenesis. Neurobehavioral tests were conducted at larval (6 days), adolescent (10 weeks) and adult (8 months) ages. Both compounds caused short-term behavioral effects on larval motility, although these effects were distinct from one another. At a lower concentration (1 µM) clothianidin increased dark-induced locomotor stimulation the second time the lights turned off, while a higher concentration (100 µM) reduced activity in the dark at its second presentation. By contrast, dinotefuran (10-100 µM) caused a general decrease in locomotion. Specific longer-term neurobehavioral toxicity after early developmental exposure was also seen. clothianidin (100 µM) reduced locomotor activity in the novel tank in adolescence and adulthood, as well as reduced baseline activity in the tap startle test (1-100 µM) and reduced activity early (1-10 µM) or throughout the predator avoidance test session (100 µM). In addition to locomotor effects, clothianidin altered the diving response in a dose-, age- and time-block-dependent manner (1 µM, 100 µM), causing fish to remain further away from a fast predator cue (100 µM) relative to controls. Dinotefuran produced comparatively fewer effects, increasing the diving response in adulthood (10 µM), but not adolescence, and suppressing initial locomotor activity in the predator avoidance test (1-10 µM). These data indicate that neonicotinoid insecticides may carry some of the same risks for vertebrates posed by other classes of insecticides, and that these adverse behavioral consequences of early developmental exposure are evident well into adulthood.

Neurocytotoxicity of imidacloprid- and acetamiprid-based comercial insecticides over the differentiation of SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells

Neonicotinoids are effective insecticides with specificity for invertebrate nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Neonicotinoids are chemically stable and tend to remain in the environment for long so concerns about their neurotoxicity in humans do nothing but increase. Herein, we evaluated the chronic toxic effects of acetamiprid- and imidacloprid-based insecticides over the differentiation of human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells, which were exposed to these insecticides at a concentration range similar to that applied to crop fields (0.01-0.5 mM). Both insecticides did not have acute cytotoxic effects in both non-differentiated and in staurosporine-differentiated SH-SY5Y cells cytotoxicity as measured by the MTT and vital-dye exclusion tests. However, after a chronic (7-day) treatment, only imidacloprid dose-dependently decreased the viability of SH-SY5Y cells (F(4,39) = 43.05, P < 0.001), largely when administered-during cell differentiation (F(4,39) = 51.86, P < 0.001). A well-defined dose-response curve was constructed for imidacloprid on day 4 (R² = 0.945, EC₅₀ = 0.14 mM). During differentiation, either imidacloprid or acetamiprid dose-dependently caused neurite branch retraction on day 3, likely because of oxidative stress, to the extent that cells turned into spheres without neurites after 7-day treatment. Despite their apparent safety, the neurodevelopmental vulnerability of SH-SY5Y neurons to the chronic exposure to imidacloprid and to a lesser extent to acetamiprid points to a neurotoxic risk for humans.

Neuroprotective effect of piracetam-loaded magnetic chitosan nanoparticles against thiacloprid-induced neurotoxicity in albino rats

Thiacloprid (TH) is a neurotoxic agricultural insecticide and potential food contaminant. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between TH exposure and memory dysfunction in rats, as well as the potential protective effect of piracetam and piracetam-loaded magnetic chitosan nanoparticles (PMC NPs). Rats were divided into five equal groups (six rats/group). The control group received saline. Group II was treated with PMC NPs at a dose level of 200 mg/kg body weight (Bwt); Group III was treated with 1/10 LD₅₀ of TH (65 mg/kg Bwt); Group IV was treated with TH (65 mg/kg Bwt) and piracetam (200 mg/kg Bwt); Group V was co-treated with TH (65 mg/kg Bwt) and PMC NPs (200 mg/kg Bwt). All animal groups were dosed daily for 6 weeks by oral gavage. Footprint analysis, hanging wire test, open field test, and Y-maze test were employed to assess behavioral deficits. Animals were euthanized, and brain tissues were analyzed for oxidative stress biomarkers, proinflammatory cytokines, and gene expression levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), amyloid-beta precursor protein (APP), B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), and caspase-3. Brain and sciatic nerve tissues were used for the evaluation of histopathological changes and immunohistochemical expression of tau protein and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), respectively. The results revealed that TH-treated rats suffered from oxidative damage and inflammatory effect on the central and peripheral nerves. The administration of PMC NPs considerably protected against TH-induced neuronal damage, increased antioxidant enzyme activity, decreased inflammatory markers, and improved behavioral performance than the group treated with piracetam. The neuroprotective effect of PMC NPs was mediated through the inhibition of GFAP, APP, caspase-3, Tau, and NF-κB gene expression with induction of Bcl-2 expression. In conclusion, TH could induce oxidative stress, inflammatory and neurobehavior impairment in rats. However, PMC NPs administration markedly mitigated TH-induced brain toxicity, possibly via oxidative and inflammatory modulation rather than using piracetam alone.

DOSE DEPENDENCE OF SUBCHRONIC INFLUENCING OF ACETAMIPRID ON THE ORGANISM OF RATS FROM DATA OF MORPHOLOGICAL RESEARCHES

OBJECTIVE

The aim: To determine the dose dependence of the subchronic effect of acetamiprid on the body of rats based on the data of morphological studies of internal organs.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Materials and methods: The experiment was performed on Wistar Han rats, which were orally administered acetamiprid in doses of 6, 12 and 60 mg/kg for 13 weeks. During the experiment, clinical studies were carried out, the general condition of the animals, body weight were assessed. After necropsy, the absolute and relative weight of internal organs was determined, and morphological studies of the brain, liver, kidneys, and spleen were performed with using an Olympus BX 54 light microscope and an Olympus C-5050 ZOOM camera with software Olympus DP-Soft. The research results were subjected to statistical processing using the Microsoft Excel 2010 computer program package.

RESULTS

Results: The most pronounced manifestations of the toxic effect of acetamiprid were observed at a dose of 60 mg/kg, which indicated its hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic effects, as well as neurotoxic effects with signs of irreversible neurocyte damage.

CONCLUSION

Conclusions: Morphological studies showed a dose-dependent nature and degree of expressiveness of the toxic effect of acetamiprid. According to the totality and nature of the changes revealed in the conditions of the conducted subchronic experiment on rats, no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) was determined at the level of 12 mg/kg, no observed effect level (NOEL) - 6 mg/kg.

Acute thiamethoxam exposure induces hepatotoxicity and neurotoxicity in juvenile Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis)

The similar nervous system structure between crustaceans and insects and the high-water solubility of thiamethoxam can lead to the more severe toxicity of thiamethoxam to crustaceans. However, the effects of thiamethoxam on crustaceans are unclear. Therefore, a 96-h acute toxicity test was performed to explore the hepatotoxicity and neurotoxicity effects of thiamethoxam on Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) at concentrations 0 µg/L, 150 µg/L and 300 µg/L. The antioxidant and detoxification systems (including phases I and II) were significantly activated after exposure of juvenile crabs to thiamethoxam for 24 h in 300 µg/L group, whereas the toxic activation effect in 150 μg/L group was delayed. Moreover, a similar pattern was observed for the transcription levels of immune-related genes. Further analysis of inflammatory signaling pathway-related genes showed that thiamethoxam exposure with 300 µg/L for 24 h may induce a pro-inflammatory response through the NF-κB pathway. In contrast, the gene expression levels in 150 µg/L group were significantly upregulated compared with 0 µg/L group after 96 h. In addition, although the acute exposure of 150 μg/L thiamethoxam did not seem to induce significant neurotoxicity, the acetylcholinesterase activity was significantly decreased in 300 μg/L group after thiamethoxam exposure for 96 h. Correspondingly, thiamethoxam exposure with 300 µg/L for 24 h resulted in significantly downregulated transcriptional levels of synaptic transmission-related genes (e.g. dopamine-, gamma-aminobutyric acid- and serotonin-related receptors). Therefore, thiamethoxam may be harmful and cause potential toxic threats such as neurotoxicity and metabolic damage to crustaceans.

Toxicity of the neonicotinoid insecticides thiamethoxam and imidacloprid to tadpoles of three species of South American amphibians and effects of thiamethoxam on the metamorphosis of Rhinella arenarum

The present study examined the acute and chronic toxicity of the neonicotinoid insecticides imidacloprid (IMI) and thiamethoxam (TIA) on the neotropical amphibian species Rhinella arenarum, Rhinella fernandezae and Scinax granulatus. The median lethal concentration after 96 hr exposure (96 hr-LC₅₀) ranged between 11.28 and >71.2 mg/L amongst all species and development stages tested, indicating that these pesticides are not likely to produce acute toxicity in the wild. The subchronic toxicity was also low, with 21 day-LC₅₀ values ranging between 27.15 and >71.2 mg/L. However, tadpoles of Rhinella arenarum exposed to thiamethoxam from stage 27 until completion of metamorphosis presented a significantly lower metamorphic success rate together with a smaller size at metamorphosis, starting from the lowest concentration tested. Although a number of studies previously examined the effects of neonicotinoids on amphibian tadpoles, these investigations focused on the time to metamorphosis and reported a variety of results including retardation, acceleration or lack of effect. Here, data demonstrated that thiamethoxam predominantly impacts metamorphosis through reduction of the transformation success and body weight, rather than by affecting the timings of metamorphosis. By closely monitoring progression of tadpoles through the different stages, impairment of metamorphosis was demonstrated to occur during the transition from stage 39 to 42, suggesting an effect on the thyroid system. An asymmetry in the length of the arms was also observed in metamorphs treated with thiamethoxam. Overall, these results indicate that thiamethoxam, and conceivably other neonicotinoids, have the potential to significantly impair metamorphosis of amphibians and diminish their performance and survival in the wild.

The Insulin Receptor: An Important Target for the Development of Novel Medicines and Pesticides

The insulin receptor (IR) is a transmembrane protein that is activated by ligands in insulin signaling pathways. The IR has been considered as a novel therapeutic target for clinical intervention, considering the overexpression of its protein and A-isoform in multiple cancers, Alzheimer's disease, and Type 2 diabetes mellitus in humans. Meanwhile, it may also serve as a potential target in pest management due to its multiple physiological influences in insects. In this review, we provide an overview of the structural and molecular biology of the IR, functions of IRs in humans and insects, physiological and nonpeptide small molecule modulators of the IR, and the regulating mechanisms of the IR. Xenobiotic compounds and the corresponding insecticidal chemicals functioning on the IR are also discussed. This review is expected to provide useful information for a better understanding of human IR-related diseases, as well as to facilitate the development of novel small-molecule activators and inhibitors of the IR for use as medicines or pesticides.

An assessment of health risks posed by consumption of pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables among residents in the Kampala Metropolitan Area in Uganda

Background

Pesticide use for fruits and vegetable production in Uganda may result in presence of residues on produce which may pose health risks to consumers. Uganda does not have an established system for monitoring pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables and assessing potential health risks. This research aimed to conduct a health risk assessment of presence of pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables in the Kampala Metropolitan Area in Uganda.

Method

Pesticides were measured in 160 fruits and vegetables samples collected at farms, markets, street vendors, restaurants and homes; and analysed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Fruit and vegetable consumption information was collected from 2177 people. Pesticide concentrations were compared with European Union maximum residual limits (MRLs). Mean values of pesticide concentration residues found in the sample of fruits and vegetables; and fruits and vegetables intake and body weight were used to calculate the estimated daily intake (EDI) of pesticide residues. EDI values were compared with acceptable daily intakes (ADI) to calculate the hazard quotient by age group, and stage at which consumption happens along the chain.

Results

Overall, 57 pesticides were detected in fruits and vegetables from farm to fork. Of the 57, 39 pesticides were detected in all the fruits and vegetables studied. Concentrations of fonofos, fenitrothion and fenhexamid were above the European Union MRLs in some samples. Hazard quotients based on dietary ingestion scenarios for 18 pesticides, including dichlorvos (444) alanycarb (314), fonofos (68), fenitrothion (62), dioxacarb (55) and benfuracarb (24) and others, were above 1, indicating the possibility of chronic health risk to consumers. Chronic health risk decreased with age but was stable for stage at which consumption happens along the food chain. The number of pesticides with EDI greater than the ADI decreased with increase in age; with 18, 13, 9, 11, 8, 9, and 9 pesticides for age groups < 5, 5-12, 13-19, 20-25, 36-49 and ≥ 50 respectively.

Conclusion

Chronic dietary pesticide exposures to Ugandans are likely common, and for some pesticides result in exposure exceeding health-based benchmarks. Risks were highest for younger participants. There is an urgent need to increase monitoring and regulation of pesticides in fruits and vegetables in order to protect consumers, especially the children who are vulnerable to the adverse effects of pesticides.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40550-022-00090-9.

Ca2+ imaging with two-photon microscopy to detect the disruption of brain function in mice administered neonicotinoid insecticides

Neonicotinoid pesticides are a class of insecticides that reportedly have harmful effects on bees and dragonflies, causing a reduction in their numbers. Neonicotinoids act as neuroreceptor modulators, and some studies have reported their association with neurodevelopmental disorders. However, the precise effect of neonicotinoids on the central nervous system has not yet been identified. Herein, we conducted in vivo Ca²⁺ imaging using a two-photon microscope to detect the abnormal activity of neuronal circuits in the brain after neonicotinoid application. The oral administration of acetamiprid (ACE) (20 mg/kg body weight (BW) in mature mice with a quantity less than the no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) and a tenth or half of the median lethal dose (LD₅₀) of nicotine (0.33 or 1.65 mg/kg BW, respectively), as a typical nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) agonist, increased anxiety-like behavior associated with altered activities of the neuronal population in the somatosensory cortex. Furthermore, we detected ACE and its metabolites in the brain, 1 h after ACE administration. The results suggested that in vivo Ca²⁺ imaging using a two-photon microscope enabled the highly sensitive detection of neurotoxicant-mediated brain disturbance of nerves.

Imidacloprid and thiamethoxam affect synaptic transmission in zebrafish

Imidacloprid (IMI) and thiamethoxam (THM) are two commonly applied neonicotinoid insecticides. IMI and THM could cause negative impacts on non-target organisms like bees. However, the information about neurotoxicity of IMI and THM in fish is still scarce. Here we investigated the effects of IMI and THM on locomotor behavior, AChE activity, and transcription of genes related to synaptic transmission in zebrafish exposed to IMI and THM with concentrations of 50 ng L^-1 to 50,000 ng L^-1 at 14 day post fertilization (dpf), 21 dpf, 28 dpf and 35 dpf. Our results showed that IMI and THM significantly influenced the locomotor activity in larvae at 28 dpf and 35 dpf. THM elevated AChE activity at 28 dpf. The qPCR data revealed that IMI and THM affected the transcription of marker genes belonging to the synapse from 14 dpf to 35 dpf. Furthermore, IMI and THM mainly affected transcription of key genes in γ-aminobutyric acid, dopamine and serotonin pathways in larvae at 28 dpf and 35 dpf. These results demonstrated the neurotoxicity of IMI and THM in zebrafish. The findings from this study suggested that IMI and THM in the aquatic environment may pose potential risks to fish fitness and survival.

Challenges, Advances and Opportunities in Exploring Natural Products to Control Arboviral Disease Vectors

Natural products constitute an important source of molecules for product development. However, despite numerous reports of compounds and active extracts from biodiversity, poor and developing countries continue to suffer with endemic diseases caused by arboviral vectors, including dengue, Zika, chikungunya and urban yellow fever. Vector control remains the most efficient disease prevention strategy. Wide and prolonged use of insecticides has resulted in vector resistance, making the search for new chemical prototypes imperative. Considering the potential of natural products chemistry for developing natural products-based products, including insecticides, this contribution discusses the general aspects and specific characteristics involved in the development of drug leads for vector control. Throughout this work, we highlight the obstacles that need to be overcome in order for natural products compounds to be considered promising prototypes. Moreover, we analyze the bottlenecks that should be addressed, together with potential strategies, to rationalize and improve the efficiency of the drug discovery process.

Astaxanthin Mitigates Thiacloprid-Induced Liver Injury and Immunotoxicity in Male Rats

Thiacloprid (TCP) is a widely used neonicotinoid insecticide with a probable toxic hazard to animals and human beings. This hazard has intensified the demand for natural compounds to alleviate the expected toxic insults. This study aimed at determining whether astaxanthin (ASX) could mitigate the hepatotoxic effect of TCP and diminish its suppressive effect on immune responses in rats. Animals received TCP by gavage at 62.1 mg/kg (1/10th LD₅₀) with or without ASX at 40 mg/kg for 60 days. Intoxicated rats showed modulation of serum transaminases and protein profiles. The hemagglutination antibody titer to sheep red blood cells (SRBC) and the number of plaque-forming cells in the spleen were reduced. The cell-mediated immunity and phagocytosis were suppressed, while serum interleukins IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10 were elevated. Additionally, malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine levels were increased in the liver, spleen, and thymus, with depletion of glutathione and suppression of superoxide dismutase and catalase activities. The expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase and the high mobility group box protein 1 genes were upregulated with histomorphological alterations in the aforementioned organs. Cotreatment with ASX markedly ameliorated the toxic effects of TCP, and all markers showed a regression trend towards control values. Collectively, our data suggest that the protective effects of ASX on the liver and immune system of TCP-treated animals depend upon improving the antioxidant status and relieving the inflammatory response, and thus it may be used as a promising therapeutic agent to provide superior hepato- and immunoprotection.

Physiological Effects of Neonicotinoid Insecticides on Non-Target Aquatic Animals-An Updated Review

In this paper, we review the effects of large-scale neonicotinoid contaminations in the aquatic environment on non-target aquatic invertebrate and vertebrate species. These aquatic species are the fauna widely exposed to environmental changes and chemical accumulation in bodies of water. Neonicotinoids are insecticides that target the nicotinic type acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the central nervous systems (CNS) and are considered selective neurotoxins for insects. However, studies on their physiologic impacts and interactions with non-target species are limited. In researches dedicated to exploring physiologic and toxic outcomes of neonicotinoids, studies relating to the effects on vertebrate species represent a minority case compared to invertebrate species. For aquatic species, the known effects of neonicotinoids are described in the level of organismal, behavioral, genetic and physiologic toxicities. Toxicological studies were reported based on the environment of bodies of water, temperature, salinity and several other factors. There exists a knowledge gap on the relationship between toxicity outcomes to regulatory risk valuation. It has been a general observation among studies that neonicotinoid insecticides demonstrate significant toxicity to an extensive variety of invertebrates. Comprehensive analysis of data points to a generalization that field-realistic and laboratory exposures could result in different or non-comparable results in some cases. Aquatic invertebrates perform important roles in balancing a healthy ecosystem, thus rapid screening strategies are necessary to verify physiologic and toxicological impacts. So far, much of the studies describing field tests on non-target species are inadequate and in many cases, obsolete. Considering the current literature, this review addresses important information gaps relating to the impacts of neonicotinoids on the environment and spring forward policies, avoiding adverse biological and ecological effects on a range of non-target aquatic species which might further impair the whole of the aquatic ecological web.

Neurotoxic Effects of Neonicotinoids on Mammals: What Is There beyond the Activation of Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors?-A Systematic Review

Neonicotinoids are a class of insecticides that exert their effect through a specific action on neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). The success of these insecticides is due to this mechanism of action, since they act as potent agonists of insect nAChRs, presenting low affinity for vertebrate nAChRs, which reduces potential toxic risk and increases safety for non-target species. However, although neonicotinoids are considered safe, their presence in the environment could increase the risk of exposure and toxicity. On the other hand, although neonicotinoids have low affinity for mammalian nAChRs, the large quantity, variety, and ubiquity of these receptors, combined with its diversity of functions, raises the question of what effects these insecticides can produce in non-target species. In the present systematic review, we investigate the available evidence on the biochemical and behavioral effects of neonicotinoids on the mammalian nervous system. In general, exposure to neonicotinoids at an early age alters the correct neuronal development, with decreases in neurogenesis and alterations in migration, and induces neuroinflammation. In adulthood, neonicotinoids induce neurobehavioral toxicity, these effects being associated with their modulating action on nAChRs, with consequent neurochemical alterations. These alterations include decreased expression of nAChRs, modifications in acetylcholinesterase activity, and significant changes in the function of the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system. All these effects can lead to the activation of a series of intracellular signaling pathways that generate oxidative stress, neuroinflammation and, finally, neuronal death. Neonicotinoid-induced changes in nAChR function could be responsible for most of the effects observed in the different studies.

Health risks to dietary neonicotinoids are low for Chinese residents based on an analysis of 13 daily-consumed foods

Neonicotinoid pesticide residues are ubiquitous in various foodstuffs and may adversely affect human health. We performed a nationwide survey of neonicotinoid residues in foodstuffs collected from Chinese markets and evaluated the risks of chronic and acute exposure in 1-6-year-old children and the general population. Among the 3406 samples of 13 commodities, 62.21% contained neonicotinoids with concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 1471.43 μg/kg, and 37.58% were simultaneously contaminated with 2-7 neonicotinoids. Acetamiprid, thiamethoxam, and imidacloprid were the top three detected neonicotinoids (22.14-34.32% of samples). Chronic and acute cumulative risk assessment using the relative potency factor method revealed that exposure to neonicotinoids was within established safety limits (below 1); however, the acute risk was much greater than the chronic risk (chronic hazard index range, 1.40 × 10^-6-2.33 × 10^-3; acute hazard index range, 1.75 × 10^-6-0.15). A relatively greater acute cumulative risk was found for children with respect to consumption of grapes, mandarins, and cowpeas (acute hazard index range, 0.11-0.15). Despite the low health risk, the potential health hazards of neonicotinoids should be continuously assessed, given their ubiquity and cumulative effects.

Neonicotinoid pesticides exert metabolic effects on avian pollinators

Neonicotinoids are neurotoxic systemic insecticides applied extensively worldwide. The impacts of common neonicotinoids like imidacloprid on non-target invertebrate pollinators have been widely studied, however effects on vertebrate pollinators have received little attention. Here, we describe the first study evaluating the effects of short-term (3 d) exposure to a range of environmentally relevant concentrations ([Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text]Body Weight) of imidacloprid on wild-caught ruby-throated hummingbirds. Within 2 h of exposure, hummingbirds exhibited a significant depression in energy expenditure (up to [Formula: see text]). We did not observe significant effects on foraging behaviour measured in the subsequent 2 h to 4 h, although the effect size estimate was large (0.29). We also analyzed tissues collected 24 h after the final dose and did not observe significant effects on immune response or cholinesterase activity, although this may be related to our small sample size. We determined that hummingbirds excrete imidacloprid quickly (elimination half-life of [Formula: see text]) relative to other bird species. Hummingbirds have high energetic demands and store relatively little energy, especially during migration and breeding seasons. Therefore, changes in their metabolism following exposures to imidacloprid observed herein could bear important survivorship consequences for hummingbirds.

Preparation and electrochemical treatment application of Ti/Sb-SnO2-Eu&rGO electrode in the degradation of clothianidin wastewater

This work investigated the preparation of Ti/Sb-SnO₂ electrode co-doped with graphene and europium and the electrochemical degradation of clothianidin in aqueous solution with Ti/Sb-SnO₂-Eu&rGO electrode. The physicochemical properties of different electrodes were characterized by using the scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, oxygen evolution potential and cyclic voltammetry tests. The results indicated that the Ti/Sb-SnO₂-Eu&rGO electrodes have a compact structure and fine grain size and have a higher oxygen evolution overpotential than Ti/Sb-SnO₂-None, Ti/Sb-SnO₂-Eu and Ti/Sb-SnO₂-rGO electrodes. Among the four electrodes, the Ti/Sb-SnO₂-Eu&rGO electrode showed the highest efficiency and was chosen as the experimental electrode. The main influence factors on the degradation of clothianidin, such as initial pH, electrolyte concentration, current density and initial concentration of clothianidin, were analyzed. The results showed that the removal rate of clothianidin can reach 96.44% under the optimal conditions for 120 min treatment. Moreover, a possible degradation pathway including the fracture of internal bonds of clothianidin such as the N-N bond, the C-N bond that connects nitroguanidine to the thiazole ring and mineralization was elucidated by intermediate products identified by HPLC-MS method and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). This paper introduces the Ti/Sb-SnO₂-Eu&rGO electrode into an electrocatalytic degradation system and could provide basic data and technique support and guidance for the clothianidin wastewater pollution control.

Farnesyl Transferase Inhibitor Lonafarnib Enhances α7nAChR Expression Through Inhibiting DNA Methylation of CHRNA7 and Increases α7nAChR Membrane Trafficking

Inhibition of Ras farnesylation in acute has been found to upregulate the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) activity. This study was carried out to investigate the effect of chronic administration for 7 days of farnesyl transferase inhibitor lonafarnib (50 mg/kg, intraperitoneally injected) to male mice on the expression and activity of α7nAChR in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal cells. Herein, we show that lonafarnib dose dependently enhances the amplitude of ACh-evoked inward currents (I_ACh), owning to the increased α7nAChR expression and membrane trafficking. Lonafarnib inhibited phosphorylation of c-Jun and JNK, which was related to DNA methylation. In addition, reduced DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) expression was observed in lonafarnib-treated mice, which was reversed by JNK activator. Lonafarnib-upregulated expression of α7nAChR was mimicked by DNMT inhibitor, and repressed by JNK activator. However, only inhibited DNA methylation did not affect I_ACh, and the JNK activator partially decreased the lonafarnib-upregulated I_ACh. On the other hand, lonafarnib also increased the membrane expression of α7nAChR, which was partially inhibited by JNK activator or CaMKII inhibitor, without changes in the α7nAChR phosphorylation. CaMKII inhibitor had no effect on the expression of α7nAChR. Lonafarnib-enhanced spatial memory of mice was also partially blocked by JNK activator or CaMKII inhibitor. These results suggest that Ras inhibition increases α7nAChR expression through depressed DNA methylation of CHRNA7 via Ras-c-Jun-JNK pathway, increases the membrane expression of α7nAChR resulting in part from the enhanced CaMKII pathway and total expression of this receptor, and consequently enhances the spatial memory.