Neonicotinoid Insecticides
Also known as: Imidacloprid · Clothianidin · Thiamethoxam · Acetamiprid · Dinotefuran
Overview
Neonicotinoids are the most widely used class of insecticides in the world, applied as seed coatings, soil drenches, and foliar sprays on virtually all major food crops. They are systemic insecticides — they are taken up by the plant and present in all plant tissues including pollen, nectar, and edible parts. They are the primary driver of global bee colony collapse disorder. In humans, neonicotinoids act on nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the nervous system and are detected in the urine of the majority of the US population. Their detection in PBMCs reflects systemic immune cell exposure.
Primary Sources
Dietary exposure from food residues on treated crops (fruits, vegetables, grains), drinking water contamination in agricultural areas, occupational exposure in farming, residential use on lawns and gardens.
Health Effects
Neurotoxicity (nAChR disruption), developmental neurotoxicity in children, immune dysregulation, thyroid disruption, possible carcinogenicity, and reproductive toxicity. Associated with increased risk of autism spectrum disorder and ADHD in children with prenatal exposure.
Detection Method
This toxin is detected and quantified using HRMS (LC or GC) analysis of isolated PBMCs. The intracellular accumulation of this compound in lymphocytes and monocytes provides a more accurate reflection of chronic systemic burden than conventional serum or urine testing.