TitleOxime-functionalized anti-insecticide fabric reduces insecticide exposure through dermal and nasal routes, and prevents insecticide-induced neuromuscular-dysfunction and mortality.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2024
AuthorsMohan MK, Thorat K, Puthiyapurayil TParassini, Sunnapu O, Chandrashekharappa S, Ravula V, Khader R, Sankaranarayanan A, Muhammad H, Vemula PKumar
JournalNat Commun
Volume15
Issue1
Pagination4844
Date Published2024 Jun 06
ISSN2041-1723
KeywordsAcetylcholinesterase, Administration, Intranasal, Animals, Carbamates, Cholinesterase Inhibitors, Insecticides, Male, Occupational Exposure, Organophosphates, Oximes, Pralidoxime Compounds, Rats, Textiles
Abstract

Farmers from South Asian countries spray insecticides without protective gear, which leads to insecticide exposure through dermal and nasal routes. Acetylcholinesterase plays a crucial role in controlling neuromuscular function. Organophosphate and carbamate insecticides inhibit acetylcholinesterase, which leads to severe neuronal/cognitive dysfunction, breathing disorders, loss of endurance, and death. To address this issue, an Oxime-fabric is developed by covalently attaching silyl-pralidoxime to the cellulose of the fabric. The Oxime-fabric, when stitched as a bodysuit and facemask, efficiently deactivates insecticides (organophosphates and carbamates) upon contact, preventing exposure. The Oxime-fabric prevents insecticide-induced neuronal damage, neuro-muscular dysfunction, and loss of endurance. Furthermore, we observe a 100% survival rate in rats when repeatedly exposed to organophosphate-insecticide through the Oxime-fabric, while no survival is seen when organophosphate-insecticide applied directly or through normal fabric. The Oxime-fabric is washable and reusable for at least 50 cycles, providing an affordable solution to prevent insecticide-induced toxicity and lethality among farmers.

DOI10.1038/s41467-024-49167-3
Alternate JournalNat Commun
PubMed ID38844466
PubMed Central IDPMC11156901