Department of Biotechnology
inStem (Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine)

Oxime-functionalized anti-insecticide fabric reduces insecticide exposure through dermal and nasal routes, and prevents insecticide-induced neuromuscular-dysfunction and mortality.

Publication Type

Journal Article

Date of Publication

June 6, 2024

Journal

Nature communications

Volume/Issue

15/1

ISSN

2041-1723

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.

Alternate Journal

Nat Commun

PubMed ID

38844466

PubMed Central ID

PMC11156901

Authors

Mahendra K Mohan
Ketan Thorat
Theja Parassini Puthiyapurayil
Omprakash Sunnapu
Sandeep Chandrashekharappa
Venkatesh Ravula
Rajamohammed Khader
Aravind Sankaranarayanan
Hadi Muhammad
Praveen Kumar Vemula

Keywords

Occupational Exposure
Animals
Organophosphates
Pralidoxime Compounds
Male
Textiles
Rats
Insecticides
Oximes
Acetylcholinesterase
Administration, Intranasal
Carbamates
Cholinesterase Inhibitors