Some data may have been extracted from scientific literature using a pipeline that uses large language models (LLMs). Source articles are cited where applicable to help verify the extracted relationships.
Profenofos is an exogenous organic compound with the formula C11H15BrClO3PS and an average molecular weight of 373.63 g/mol. Profenofos belongs to the phenoxy compounds, a subclass of benzene and substituted derivatives within the organic compounds. At room temperature, this substance exists as a solid. It functions as an acetylcholinesterase (EC 3.1.1.7) inhibitor.
In industrial and biological applications, profenofos is used as an agrochemical, biocide, pesticide (PMC12452724 , PMC7763907 ), insecticide (PMC11277490 ), and acaricide (PMC10008910 ). It targets 16 recorded proteins, including the estrogen receptor (ESR1), interstitial collagenase (MMP1), nuclear receptor subfamily 1 group I member 2 (NR1I2), and mitochondrial 25-hydroxyvitamin D-1 alpha hydroxylase (CYP27B1).
Profenofos has been recorded in nine sources, including drinking water, floors in building and construction, and cigar cigarettes in household cleaning and consumer products. It is also found in food processing and cookware, specifically in the preparation of malt and molasses and the treatment of molasses, as well as in electrical and electronic equipment such as discharge lamps, colour television systems, television systems, and electrically stimulated smoking devices. The recorded route of exposure for this compound is oral.
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.
Profenofos 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 low dose exposure include excessive salivation and eye-watering. Acute dose symptoms include severe nausea/vomiting, salivation, sweating, bradycardia, hypotension, collapse, and convulsions. Increasing muscle weakness is a possibility and may result in death if respiratory muscles are involved. Hypertension, hypoglycemia, anxiety, headache, tremor and ataxia may also result.
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.
Health Effects
Health Effect
Relationship
Direction
Description
Reference
dizziness
Associated With?
Not Available
A sensation of lightheadedness, unsteadiness, turning, spinning or rocking.
A disorder characterized by a sensation of marked discomfort in various parts of the head, not confined to the area of distribution of any nerve. (NCI CTCAE)
A sudden, often repetitive, spasmodic contraction of the thoracic cavity, resulting in violent release of air from the lungs and usually accompanied by a distinctive sound. (NCI CTCAE)
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.
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.
Floors?Floors in built environments can be a significant source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and finishes used in their construction.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Preparation Of Malt?Malt preparation involves the germination and drying of cereal grains, primarily barley, to produce malt for brewing and food products.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Nanotechnology?Nanotechnology involves the manipulation of materials at the molecular or atomic level, typically within the range of 1 to 100 nanometers.
Water, Wastewater, & Sewage Treatment?Water, wastewater, and sewage treatment processes are critical for managing and mitigating pollutants in water systems.
