Nerve membrane Na+ channels as targets of insecticides

Article Abstract:

Electrophysiological studies involving voltage and patch clamp experiments together with other biochemical tests indicated that pyrethroids and DDT modified the sodium ion channels resulting in the dysfunction of mammal and insect nervous systems. Moreover, the actions of both insecticides were more pronounced in open-channel than in resting states. Aside from the modification of the sodium ion channel, the insecticides also altered the function of other ion channels such as the calcium and the glutamate receptor channels. In addition, the insecticides featured temperature-dependent toxicities which proved more detrimental to insects than to mammals.

Physiological aspects, DDT (Insecticide), DDT, Insecticides, Sodium channels, Pyrethroids

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The role of excitotoxicity in organophosphorous nerve agents central poisoning

Article Abstract:

Organophosphorous (OP) nerve agents are highly toxic chemical weapons that exert their effects by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase and subsequently blocking hydrolysis of acetylcholine (ACh). The process will then lead to excessive accumulation of ACh and overstimulation of cholinergic neurones. It has been hypothesized that the excessive presynaptic release of glutamate activates both the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor and the non-NMDA postsynaptic receptors, resulting in neuronal damage. Antagonism of the excitotoxic mechanism may thus be a way to protect the central nervous system from the effects of OP nerve agents.

Central nervous system, Chemical weapons, Organophosphorus compounds, Organic phosphorus compounds

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Low-voltage-activated T-type Ca2+ channels

Article Abstract:

The low-voltage-activated T-type Ca2+ channel is present in different cells but its exact role remains unknown. Moreover, a definition of its molecular structure remains elusive. New drugs which block T channels are being developed. Mibefradil, a newly developed new antihypertensive, antianginal Ca2+ channel antagonist, has been shown to block preferentially T channels. Furthermore, some scientists are reportedly close to cloning a T channel.

Calcium channels, Calcium channel blockers

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