Selective and Irreversible Inhibitors of Aphid Acetylcholinesterases
Author Information
Author(s): Pang Yuan-Ping, Singh Sanjay K., Gao Yang, Lassiter T. Leon, Mishra Rajesh K., Zhu Kun Yan, Brimijoin Stephen
Primary Institution: Mayo Clinic
Hypothesis
Can a cysteine residue in aphid acetylcholinesterase be targeted for developing species-selective insecticides?
Conclusion
The study demonstrates that a cysteine-targeting inhibitor can effectively inhibit acetylcholinesterase activity in aphids without affecting human acetylcholinesterase.
Supporting Evidence
- The inhibitors caused 99% irreversible inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activity in greenbug extracts.
- The inhibitors showed little to no effect on human acetylcholinesterase.
- Targeting the cysteine residue in aphids may reduce the risk of developing resistance to insecticides.
Takeaway
Scientists created a special chemical that can stop aphids from working without hurting humans, which could help farmers protect their crops.
Methodology
The researchers synthesized methanethiosulfonate-containing inhibitors and tested their effects on acetylcholinesterase activity in aphid and human samples.
Limitations
The inhibitors are prototypes and have not been tested for field application or their long-term effects on the environment.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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