MEDICAL PHYSIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Neonicotinoids are agonists of the insect nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAchRs), which are the main excitatory neurotransmitters [11, 12]. When binding to nAchRs, neonicotinoids induce neuronal depolarisation and temporarily prevent the action of acetylcholine [11, 13].

Detailed explanation-2: -Blocking of synaptic transmission at cholinergic synapses in insects by binding of neonicotinoid pesticides to acetylcholine receptors.

Detailed explanation-3: -Neonicotinoids are synthetic compounds similar in structure to nicotine (Figure 1). They have a common mode of action that affects the central nervous system of insects (binding to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors) making them active against a broad spectrum of insects.

Detailed explanation-4: -Neonicotinoids (also referred to as “neonics”) are insecticides derived from nicotine. They act by binding strongly to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the central nervous system of insects, causing overstimulation of their nerve cells, paralysis and death.

Detailed explanation-5: -Many insecticides act upon the insect’s nervous system (e.g., cholinesterase inhibition), while others act as growth regulators or endotoxins. Most act on neurons by causing a sodium/potassium imbalance preventing normal transmission of nerve impulses.