Researchers at the Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (InStem) have developed an anti-pesticide fabric to neutralise organophosphate-based pesticides based on earlier work on topical gels for pesticide detoxification.
Anti-pesticide fabric
- This is a special type of fabric. It has tiny molecules covalently bonded to the cellulose of the fabric, making the fabric breathable and durable.
- The small molecules covalently bonded to the fabric are nucleophile in nature and can detoxify pesticides on contact through nucleophile-mediated hydrolysis.
- This fabric attacks the pesticide molecule and breaks it down into non-toxic products. The pesticide is inactivated before it reaches the skin surface.
- This fabric retains its efficacy (anti-pesticide properties) for about 150 washing cycles.
- Designing a nucleophile that can inactivate a wide range of organophosphates and carbamates followed by adapting an industry-friendly chemical to covalently attach to the fabric was key to developing the pesticide-resistant fabric.
Mechanism
- The micromolecule-coated fabric does not act as a physical barrier to organophosphate-based pesticides but hydrolytically inactivates the pesticides, thereby preventing pesticide-induced AChE inhibition.
- When esters present in organophosphate-based pesticides enter the body, they bind and block an enzyme (acetylcholinesterase or AChE) that is important for neuromuscular function.
Uses and Benefits
- Agricultural Uses: Very beneficial for agricultural labourers
- Health Safety: Also especially important for people residing in areas with malaria, dengue and other insect-borne diseases
- Long-term: The coating of these fabrics is effective for a long time, making them economically viable