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Methamidophos, an Organophosphorus Insecticide, Induces Pro-aggressive Behaviour in Mice
Cristina Paula do Nascimento1, Gabriella Xavier Maretto2, Graziany Leite Moreira Marques1
1Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Av. Marechal Campos, 1468, Maruípe, Vitória, ES, 29043-900, Brazil.
Neurotoxicity Research
|May 26, 2017
Summary
Organophosphorus pesticide exposure can alter behavior. Methamidophos, an organophosphorus pesticide, induced aggressive behavior in previously non-aggressive mice and decreased key enzyme activity.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Toxicology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Organophosphorus (OP) pesticides are known to cause neurobehavioral disorders.
- However, the specific impact of OP pesticides on aggressive behavior remains largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- This study investigated the pro-aggressive effects of methamidophos, an OP pesticide, in socially isolated mice.
- The research aimed to understand how methamidophos influences aggressive and exploratory behaviors.
Main Methods:
- Forty-seven male mice were socially isolated and assessed for aggression.
- Mice received daily intraperitoneal injections of methamidophos (3.5 mg/kg) or saline for seven days.
- Aggressive and exploratory behaviors were recorded before and after treatment.
Main Results:
- Repeated methamidophos exposure induced attack behavior in mice that were not previously aggressive.
- Methamidophos treatment significantly reduced plasma butyrylcholinesterase and brain acetylcholinesterase activity.
- A correlation was observed between pesticide exposure and increased aggressive tendencies.
Conclusions:
- Methamidophos exhibits pro-aggressive effects in socially isolated mice.
- The findings suggest a link between OP pesticide exposure and altered aggressive behavior.
- Enzyme inhibition by methamidophos may contribute to its behavioral effects.
