Abstract
Recent studies proved that the biofumigants could be an alternative to chemical fumigants against stored grain insect pests. For this reason, it is necessary to understand the mode of action of biofumigants. In the present study the prospectus of utilising Lantana camara as a potent fumigant insecticide is being discussed. Inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) by Coumaran, an active ingredient extracted from the plant L. camara, was studied. The biofumigant was used as an enzyme inhibitor and acetylthiocholine iodide as a substrate along with Ellman's reagent to carry out the reactions. The in vivo inhibition was observed in both dose dependent and time dependent in case of housefly, and the nervous tissue (ganglion) and the whole insect homogenate of stored grain insect exposed to Coumaran. The possible mode of action of Coumaran as an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor is discussed.
Highlights
Acetylcholine (Ach) is one of the major molecules by which nerve impulses are transmitted from nerve cell or involuntary muscle [1]
Acetylcholinesterase AChE is an enzyme that breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine at the synaptic cleft so the nerve impulse can be transmitted across the synaptic gap [2]
The present study aims to investigate the mode of action of Coumaran in the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase
Summary
Acetylcholine (Ach) is one of the major molecules by which nerve impulses are transmitted from nerve cell or involuntary muscle [1]. Acetylcholinesterase AChE is an enzyme that breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine at the synaptic cleft (the space between two nerve cells) so the nerve impulse can be transmitted across the synaptic gap [2]. The phosphine, organophosphates, and carbamates act by interfering with the passage of impulses in the insect nervous system [3]. Organophosphate insecticides are generally regarded as irreversible inhibitors of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. The inability of phosphorylated AChE to hydrolyse acetylcholine, the build up of concentration of the acetylcholine in the synapse and excessive neuro excitation are the results of prolonged binding of ACh to its postsynaptic receptor. The signs of intoxication include restlessness, hyperexcitability, tremors, convulsions and paralysis leading to death [4, 5]
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