Evaluation of halogenated coumarins for antimosquito properties.

Venugopala K Narayanaswamy,Mahesh V Attimarad,Bandar E Aldhubiab,Bharti Odhav,Kabange Kasumbwe,Raquel M Gleiser

doi:10.1155/2014/189824

Abstract

Mosquitoes are the major vectors of parasites and pathogens affecting humans and domestic animals. The widespread development of insecticide resistance and negative environmental effects of most synthetic compounds support an interest in finding and developing alternative products against mosquitoes. Natural coumarins and synthetic coumarin analogues are known for their several pharmacological properties, including being insecticidal. In the present study halogenated coumarins (3-mono/dibromo acetyl, 6-halogenated coumarin analogues) were screened for larvicidal, adulticidal, and repellent properties against Anopheles arabiensis, a zoophilic mosquito that is one of the dominant vectors of malaria in Africa. Five compounds exerted 100% larval mortality within 24 h of exposure. All coumarins and halogenated coumarins reversibly knocked down adult mosquitoes but did not kill them after 24 h of exposure. Repellent properties could not be evidenced. Five compounds were considered potential larvicidal agents for further research and development, while adulticidal activity was considered only mild to moderate.

Highlights

Mosquitoes are the major vectors of parasites and pathogens that cause malaria, filariasis, dengue fever, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, and other fevers affecting humans and domestic animals [1]
The highest activity was detected with CMRN 1, CMRN 2, CMRN 4, CMRN 5, and CMRN 7 showing close to 100% mortality after 24 h of exposure, which was the same as for the positive control Temephos
Compounds CMRN 3, CMRN 6, scopoletin, and 6,7-methoxy coumarin showed a statistically lower mortality that was equivalent to the negative control

Summary

Introduction

Mosquitoes are the major vectors of parasites and pathogens that cause malaria, filariasis, dengue fever, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, and other fevers affecting humans and domestic animals [1]. Vector control programs mainly use four classes of chemical insecticides: organochlorines, organophosphates, carbamates, and pyrethroids. Use of chemicals on a vast and increasing scale has led to the widespread development of resistance as a result of selection for certain genes [2], and some species have even become resistant to multiple insecticides [3]. Mosquito resistance to at least one insecticide used for malaria control has been identified in 64 countries [3]. Synthetic organic insecticides, such as those currently used to control mosquitoes, affect nontarget organisms and result in negative environmental effects [4]. There is an interest in the finding and development of alternative antimosquito products

Methods

Results

Conclusion