Bifenthrin induces DNA damage and autophagy in Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf9) insect cells

Bifenthrin is one of the most commonly used synthetic pyrethroid insecticides. It targets the nervous system of insects, mainly acting on sodium channels in nerve cell membranes. The high use of bifrenthrin may lead to an increase in pest insect resistance. Additionally, there are only a few studies describing its cytotoxic action. A series of bioassays were carried out, and the results showed that bifenthrin has a significant ability to induce DNA damage and the inhibition of viability in Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf9) cells. Monodansylcadaverine staining and transmission electron microscope assays were used to observe significant levels of autophagosomes and mitochondrial dysfunction in the cytoplasm. Additionally, western blot analysis showed an upregulation in LC3-II and beclin-1 protein expression and a downregulation in p62 expression, which contributed to the cytotoxic effect of bifenthrin on Sf9 cells. Overall, bifenthrin significantly impacts the viability of Sf9 cells by inducing DNA damage and autophagy. These results provide a theoretical basis for understanding bifrenthin's mechanism of cytotoxicity.