Imidacloprid (CED0003118)

Imidacloprid is an exogenous organic compound with the formula C9H10ClN5O2 and an average molecular weight of 255.66 g/mol. It exists as a solid at room temperature. Imidacloprid belongs to the guanidines, a subclass of organonitrogen compounds within the organic compounds. Biologically, the compound serves as a nicotinic agonist. It binds specifically to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in various nervous systems, where it acts as a partial agonist. Recorded protein targets include the acetylcholine receptor subunit alpha (CHRNA1), acetylcholine receptor subunit beta (CHRNB1), acetylcholine receptor subunit delta (CHRND), acetylcholine receptor subunit epsilon (CHRNE), neuronal acetylcholine receptor subunit alpha-2 (CHRNA2), and the CHRNA7-FAM7A fusion protein (CHRFAM7A). Additionally, imidacloprid binds to and inhibits the estrogen receptor (ESR1 and ESR2), which causes endocrine disruption in humans. Other associated protein targets include the solute carrier organic anion transporter family member 1B1 (SLCO1B1) and nuclear receptor subfamily 1 group I member 2 (NR1I2). Imidacloprid is used as a pesticide in agriculture and land management. It is found in or released from 14 recorded sources, including drinking water and water supply, indoor air, and food, food processing and cookware, such as the preparation of wine or sparkling wine, the preparation of malt, molasses and treatment of molasses, and the treatment of hops. It is also associated with building and construction materials, including floors, fencing, and ceilings, as well as electrical and electronic equipment such as power cables, television systems, and antennas. Recorded exposure routes for the compound include oral and inhalation.