Nicotinic receptor targeting in physiological and environmental vulnerability: A whole of biosphere perspective

We propose a biosphere model of convergent interactions between nicotine and neonicotinoids (neonics) within a related framework of nicotinic receptor targeting agents (NrTA) across the globe. We explore how rising global trends in the use nicotine as well as neonics impacts vulnerability, within and across species, and posit that evolutionary conservation at the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) provides an operational strategy map for pathogens and disease. Furthermore, we examine the effects of NrTA exposure on balance within extant and developing ecological niches, food chains, and human societies. We advocate for a global strategy for biomonitoring across agriculture, wildlife, and human centers. Such a strategy would relate emergent pathogenic and infectious diseases, amongst others, along a tractable biological stress pathway. This new framework aims to better prepare society in the face of emergent pandemics through 1. identifying primary chemical drivers that can impact emergent diseases; 2. outlining data-driven strategy options for health and environmental policy decision makers.