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Phorate is an exogenous liquid compound with the formula C7H17O2PS3 and an average molecular weight of 260.38 g/mol. Phorate belongs to the dithiophosphate o-esters, a subclass of organic dithiophosphoric acids and derivatives within the organic compounds. It functions as an agrochemical, biocide, acaricide, and biological insecticide (PMC4179059 ). Biologically and chemically, it acts as an inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase (EC 3.1.1.7) and cholinesterase (EC 3.1.1.8) (PMC4179059 ). Its recorded protein targets include acetylcholinesterase (ACHE), cholinesterase (BCHE), retinoic acid receptor alpha (RARA), cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1), and one other protein.
The compound is found in or released from 40 recorded sources. These include electrical and electronic equipment such as antennas, amplifiers, colour television systems, auxiliary devices, adjustable resistors, and 22 others. In building and construction, it is associated with ceilings, floors, roofs, stairs and ramps, and sunshades awnings or outside screens, among others. Household cleaning and consumer product sources include soap detergents, perfumes within detergents and soaps, cigar cigarettes, and tobacco smoke filters. Additionally, it is found in food, food processing and cookware sources, specifically fish processing, food preservation, and molasses and the treatment of molasses.
Belongs to the class of organic compounds known as dithiophosphate o-esters. These are o-ester derivatives of dithiophosphates, with the general structure RSP(O)(O)=S (R = organyl group).
EC 3.1.1.7 (acetylcholinesterase) inhibitor ?An EC 3.1.1.* (carboxylic ester hydrolase) inhibitor that interferes with the action of enzyme acetylcholinesterase (EC 3.1.1.7), which helps breaking down of acetylcholine into choline and acetic acid.
EC 3.1.1.8 (cholinesterase) inhibitor ?An EC 3.1.1.* (carboxylic ester hydrolase) inhibitor that interferes with the action of cholinesterase (EC 3.1.1.8).
Phorate is a cholinesterase or acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor. A cholinesterase inhibitor (or 'anticholinesterase') suppresses the action of acetylcholinesterase. Because of its essential function, chemicals that interfere with the action of acetylcholinesterase are potent neurotoxins, causing excessive salivation and eye-watering in low doses, followed by muscle spasms and ultimately death. Nerve gases and many substances used in insecticides have been shown to act by binding a serine in the active site of acetylcholine esterase, inhibiting the enzyme completely. Acetylcholine esterase breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is released at nerve and muscle junctions, in order to allow the muscle or organ to relax. The result of acetylcholine esterase inhibition is that acetylcholine builds up and continues to act so that any nerve impulses are continually transmitted and muscle contractions do not stop. Among the most common acetylcholinesterase inhibitors are phosphorus-based compounds, which are designed to bind to the active site of the enzyme. The structural requirements are a phosphorus atom bearing two lipophilic groups, a leaving group (such as a halide or thiocyanate), and a terminal oxygen.
No indication of carcinogenicity to humans (not listed by IARC).
Minimum Risk Level
Not Available
Symptoms
Symptoms of acute oral exposure may include blurred vision, headache, inability to concentrate, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, irregular heart and respiration rates, tremors, excessive sweating, confusion and convulsions. Death can occur at high doses due to respiratory arrest or lung constriction. Symptoms resulting from phorate inhalation or skin contact may occur from a few minutes up to 12 hours after exposure. Workers chronically exposed to organophosphates have shown slow thinking, memory defects, irritability, delayed reaction time, and anxiety. Symptoms included a lowering of the heart rate. (1)
Treatment
If the compound has been ingested, rapid gastric lavage should be performed using 5% sodium bicarbonate. For skin contact, the skin should be washed with soap and water. If the compound has entered the eyes, they should be washed with large quantities of isotonic saline or water. In serious cases, atropine and/or pralidoxime should be administered. Anti-cholinergic drugs work to counteract the effects of excess acetylcholine and reactivate AChE. Atropine can be used as an antidote in conjunction with pralidoxime or other pyridinium oximes (such as trimedoxime or obidoxime), though the use of '-oximes' has been found to be of no benefit, or possibly harmful, in at least two meta-analyses. Atropine is a muscarinic antagonist, and thus blocks the action of acetylcholine peripherally.
Cancer is a group of diseases involving abnormal cell growth with the potential to invade or spread to other parts of the body. Possible signs and symptoms include a lump, abnormal bleeding, prolonged cough, unexplained weight loss, and a change in bowel movements. There are over 100 types of cancers affect humans. The risk of developing certain cancers can be reduced by not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, not drinking too much alcohol, eating plenty of vegetables, fruits and whole grains, vaccination against certain infectious diseases, not eating too much processed and red meat and avoiding too much sunlight exposure. Cancer is often treated with some combination of radiation therapy, surgery, chemotherapy and targeted therapy. The majority of cancers, some 90–95% of cases, are due to genetic mutations from environmental and lifestyle factors. The remaining 5–10% are due to inherited genetics.
A bronchial disease that is characterized by chronic inflammation and narrowing of the airways, which is caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. The disease has symptom recurring periods of wheezing (a whistling sound while breathing), has symptom chest tightness, has symptom shortness of breath, has symptom mucus production and has symptom coughing. The symptoms appear due to a variety of triggers such as allergens, irritants, respiratory infections, weather changes, exercise, stress, reflux disease, medications, foods and emotional anxiety. (DO)
A glucose metabolism disease characterized by chronic hyperglycaemia with disturbances of carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. (DO)
A glucose metabolism disease characterized by chronic hyperglycaemia with disturbances of carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. (DO)
A glucose metabolism disease characterized by chronic hyperglycaemia with disturbances of carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. (DO)
Soil?Soil serves as a critical medium for plant growth and sustains various ecological functions; however, it can become a reservoir for synthetic chemical contamination.
Groundwater?Groundwater serves as a vital resource for drinking water and agricultural irrigation but is increasingly susceptible to contamination from synthetic chemicals.
Stormwater runoff?Stormwater runoff refers to the flow of rainwater or melted snow that does not soak into the ground and instead collects pollutants as it travels over impervious surfaces such as roads and parking lots.
Drinking water?Drinking water can be a medium for synthetic chemical contamination, often originating from various industrial processes and agricultural practices.
Ballast water?Ballast water, taken on by ships to maintain stability and balance, often contains a diverse array of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and plankton.
Bilge water?Bilge water is a byproduct generated from the accumulation of water in the lowest part of a ship's hull, which may include a mixture of seawater, oil, fuel residues, and various contaminants.
Brushes?Brushes used in personal care and cosmetics can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and coatings used in their manufacturing.
Industrial wastewater?Industrial wastewater is a byproduct generated during various manufacturing and processing activities, which often contains a complex mixture of organic and inorganic synthetic chemicals.
Ceilings?Ceilings in built environments can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials used in their construction and finishes.
Floors?Floors in built environments can be a significant source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and finishes used in their construction.
Stairs And Ramps?Stairs and ramps in construction are often treated with various synthetic chemicals to enhance durability, slip resistance, and weather resistance.
Sunshades Awnings Or Outside Screens?Sunshades, awnings, and outside screens are often constructed using synthetic materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyester, or acrylic fabrics.
Sunshades Awnings Or Outside Screens?Sunshades, awnings, and outside screens are commonly used in construction to enhance energy efficiency and provide shade.
Adjustable Resistors?Adjustable resistors, commonly used in various electronic devices, can contribute to synthetic chemical contamination through the materials and substances used in their manufacturing and disposal.
Amplifiers?Amplifiers, commonly used in various electronic devices to enhance signal strength, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and processes involved in their production and disposal.
Antennas?Antennas, commonly used in communication technologies, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination through the materials and coatings used in their construction.
Conductors Or Conductive Bodies Characterised By The Conductive Materials?Conductors, or conductive bodies, are materials that allow the flow of electrical current, typically made from metals such as copper, aluminum, or silver.
Cores Yokes Or Armatures?Cores, yokes, or armatures are components commonly found in electrical devices, used to facilitate the magnetic and electrical functions within motors, transformers, and generators.
Discharge Lamps?Discharge lamps, including fluorescent and high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps, are commonly used for lighting applications due to their energy efficiency and brightness.
Electric Switches?Electric switches, integral components in numerous devices, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and manufacturing processes involved in their production.
Electrically Stimulated Smoking Devices?Electrically stimulated smoking devices, commonly known as e-cigarettes or vape pens, utilize electrical components to heat a liquid solution, often containing nicotine, flavorings, and other additives, to produce an aerosol for inhalation.
Electrodes?Electrodes, used in various electrical and electronic applications, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials from which they are constructed and the processes involved in their manufacturing.
Emergency Protective Devices?Emergency protective devices, such as circuit breakers and surge protectors, are essential components in electrical systems designed to prevent damage from overcurrent and surges.
Fixed Capacitors And Their Manufacture?Fixed capacitors are passive electronic components used to store and release electrical energy, playing a critical role in various circuits.
Gas Filled Discharge Tubes With Solid Cathode?Gas Filled Discharge Tubes with Solid Cathodes are electrical components that facilitate the flow of current by ionizing gas within a sealed tube.
Hybrid Capacitors?Hybrid capacitors are energy storage devices that combine the properties of electrolytic and supercapacitors, utilizing a combination of electrochemical principles to achieve higher energy density and power density.
Line Transmission Systems?Line Transmission Systems, commonly used for the distribution of electrical energy, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination through the insulation materials and coatings utilized in their construction.
Loudspeakers?Loudspeakers, as components in audio systems, can be sources of synthetic chemical contamination primarily due to the materials used in their construction.
Magnets?Magnets, commonly used in various electrical and electronic applications, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials used in their production.
Power Cables?Power cables are used to transmit electrical energy and are typically composed of conductive materials, insulation, and protective coatings.
Sparking Plugs?Spark plugs are critical components in internal combustion engines, facilitating the ignition of fuel-air mixtures by generating a spark.
Superconducting Magnets And Superconducting Coils?Superconducting magnets and coils are utilized in various applications that require strong magnetic fields, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and particle accelerators.
Television Systems?Television systems can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the various materials and components used in their manufacture and operation.
Food Preservation?Food preservation often involves the use of synthetic chemicals, such as preservatives, flavor enhancers, and color additives, to extend shelf life and enhance the sensory qualities of food products.
Molasses And Treatment Of Molasses?Molasses is a thick, viscous byproduct of sugar production, derived from the extraction of sugar cane or sugar beet juice.
Perfumes Within Detergents And Soaps?Perfumes within detergents and soaps are synthetic fragrance compounds added to enhance the sensory experience of cleaning products.
Soap Detergents?Soap detergents are synthetic surfactants designed to enhance the cleaning efficacy of water by reducing surface tension, allowing for better interaction with dirt and grease.
Tobacco Smoke Filters?Tobacco smoke filters are designed to reduce the inhalation of harmful substances in cigarette smoke, including tar and other particulate matter.
Making Cigars?The process of making cigars involves several steps, including the cultivation of tobacco, fermentation, and the application of various additives to enhance flavor and preservation.
Manufacture Of Iron Or Steel?The manufacture of iron or steel involves various processes, including smelting, refining, and alloying, which can result in the release of synthetic chemicals and contaminants.
Manufacture Preparation Of Tobacco Products?The manufacture and preparation of tobacco products involve various processes that can result in the introduction of synthetic chemicals into the environment.
Paper Making Machines?Paper making machines utilize various synthetic chemicals throughout the production process, including additives, coatings, and bleaching agents.
Anchoring Equipment?Anchoring equipment, commonly used in marine applications, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and coatings utilized in their manufacturing.
Marine Propulsion Or Steering?Marine propulsion and steering systems often rely on various synthetic chemicals, including lubricants, fuels, and hydraulic fluids.
Ships?Ships, as vehicles for international trade and transportation, can be significant sources of synthetic chemical contamination in marine environments.
Chemosterilants?Chemosterilants are synthetic chemicals designed to induce sterility in target pest populations, thereby controlling their reproduction and mitigating damage to crops.
Fertiliser Distributors?Fertiliser distributors play a critical role in the supply of synthetic fertilizers, which are widely used to enhance soil fertility and crop yield.
Lawn Mowers?Lawn mowers, particularly those powered by gasoline, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the combustion of fossil fuels and the use of engine oils.
Molluscicides?Molluscicides are synthetic chemicals specifically designed to control and eliminate mollusks, such as snails and slugs, which can be detrimental to crops and agricultural productivity.
Nematocides?Nematocides are synthetic chemicals specifically designed to control nematodes, which are microscopic roundworms that can cause significant damage to crops and plants.
Rodenticides(1)?Rodenticides are synthetic chemicals specifically formulated to control rodent populations, serving as a crucial tool in managing pests that can damage crops and spread diseases.
Rodenticides?Rodenticides are chemical substances specifically designed to control rodent populations by causing death through various mechanisms, including anticoagulation or neurotoxicity.
Aftersun Products?Aftersun products are designed to soothe and hydrate the skin after sun exposure, often containing various synthetic chemicals such as emollients, preservatives, and fragrances.
Anti Perspirants Or Body Deoderants?Antiperspirants and body deodorants commonly contain synthetic chemicals such as aluminum compounds, parabens, and synthetic fragrances.
Depilatories?Depilatories are products designed to remove unwanted hair through the application of synthetic chemicals that break down the protein structure of hair, facilitating its removal.
Essential Oils Or Perfumes?Essential oils and perfumes are complex mixtures of volatile compounds derived from natural or synthetic sources, commonly used for their aromatic properties.
Eye Makeup Products?Eye makeup products, including mascaras, eyeliners, and eyeshadows, often contain a variety of synthetic chemicals such as pigments, preservatives, and film-forming agents.
Lip Care Products?Lip care products, including lipsticks, balms, and glosses, often contain a variety of synthetic chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances.
Lip Makeup Products?Lip makeup products, such as lipsticks, lip glosses, and lip liners, often contain a variety of synthetic chemicals, including pigments, preservatives, and emollients.
Card Games?Card games often utilize synthetic materials for playing cards and associated gaming equipment, which may contain various chemicals such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), plastics, and dyes.
Game Accessories?Game accessories, such as synthetic turf, athletic shoes, and other sports-related equipment, often incorporate various synthetic chemicals in their production.
Toys?Toys, particularly those made from synthetic materials such as plastics, can be a source of chemical contamination due to the presence of various additives and compounds used in their production.
Footwear?Footwear production often involves the use of various synthetic chemicals, such as adhesives, dyes, and treatments, which can contribute to environmental contamination.
Headwear?Headwear made from synthetic materials often incorporates chemicals used in the manufacturing and finishing processes, such as dyes, flame retardants, and water repellents.
Pins Clothes?Pins Clothes can serve as a potential source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the use of various synthetic fibers and finishes in textile production.
Purses Luggage Hand Bags?Purses, luggage, and handbags are often manufactured using synthetic materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane, and various types of nylon.
Ropes?Ropes manufactured from synthetic fibers, such as polypropylene, nylon, and polyester, are widely used in various applications, including marine, construction, and outdoor activities.
Snap Fasteners?Snap fasteners, commonly used in clothing and upholstery, can be made from various synthetic materials, including plastics and metal alloys.
Surface Finishing Of Leather?Surface finishing of leather often involves the use of various synthetic chemicals, including dyes, resins, and finishing agents.
Yarns Or Threads?Yarns or threads used in textiles can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the production processes and treatments they undergo.
Airplanes And Helicopters?Airplanes and helicopters are significant sources of synthetic chemical contamination primarily through the use of aviation fuels, lubricants, and de-icing agents.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles?Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, utilize various synthetic chemicals in their manufacturing, operation, and maintenance processes.
Nitrogenous Fertilisers?Nitrogenous fertilizers are synthetic chemical compounds primarily used to enhance plant growth by supplying essential nitrogen, a crucial nutrient for photosynthesis and protein synthesis.
Traction Harness?Traction harnesses, commonly used in agricultural practices for animals and machinery, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination through the materials used in their production.
Cements?Cements are a composite material primarily used as a binding agent in construction applications, formed by the calcination of limestone and clay minerals at high temperatures.
Clay Wares?Clay wares are ceramic products made from natural clay, often utilized in various construction applications such as tiles, bricks, and sanitary ware.
Glass Coatings?Glass coatings are synthetic chemical formulations applied to glass surfaces to enhance properties such as durability, UV resistance, and aesthetic appeal.
Silica Glass?Silica glass, primarily composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2), is widely used in various applications, including windows, glass facades, and insulation materials.
Treatment Of Milk Or Cream?The treatment of milk or cream involves various processes such as pasteurization, homogenization, and the addition of preservatives to enhance shelf life and safety.
Nanotechnology?Nanotechnology involves the manipulation of materials at the molecular or atomic level, typically within the range of 1 to 100 nanometers.
Submarines?Submarines, while essential for military and research purposes, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to their use of various industrial chemicals.
Mining Or Quarrying?Mining and quarrying operations can lead to synthetic chemical contamination through the release of various pollutants associated with the extraction and processing of minerals.
Bookbinding?Bookbinding involves the use of various synthetic chemicals, including adhesives, inks, and coatings, which can contribute to environmental contamination.
Coating Compositions?Coating compositions, which include paints, sealants, and varnishes, are formulated with a variety of synthetic chemicals such as solvents, resins, pigments, and additives.
Sludge Treatment?Sludge treatment involves the processing of waste materials generated from wastewater treatment plants, which often contain a variety of organic and inorganic substances.
Water, Wastewater, & Sewage Treatment?Water, wastewater, and sewage treatment processes are critical for managing and mitigating pollutants in water systems.
Extension Toxicology Network (1993). Pesticide Information Profile for Phorate. A Pesticide Information Project of Cooperative Extension Offices of Cornell University, Michigan State University, Oregon State University, and University of California at Davis. http://pmep.cce.cornell.edu/profiles/extoxnet/metiram-propoxur/phorate-ext.html
