Profenofos, an Acetylcholinesterase-Inhibiting Organophosphorus Pesticide: A Short Review of Its Usage, Toxicity, and Biodegradation

Pesticides play an important role in the protection of different crops. Among the diverse sets of pesticides used all over the world, the organophosphates are the most widely used group. Profenofos [O-(4-bromo-2-chlorophenyl) O-ethyl S-propyl phosphorothioate] is one of the most largely used organophosphate insecticides on field crops, vegetables, and fruit crops. The World Health Organization classifies this compound as moderately hazardous (Toxicity Class II), and its residues have been found in vegetables like okra [ (L.) Moench], gooseberries ( sp.), green chilies [ (L.)], curry leaves [ (L.) Spreng], mint leaves [ (L.)], and coriander leaves [ (L.)]. Dietary intake of profenofos (PFF) is the major exposure pathway for humans. When applied to agricultural fields, PFF residues spread into every part of the environment: ambient air, surface water, and soil. In this review, we discuss the worldwide usage of PFF pesticide, its toxic effects on humans and other living organisms in the environment, and biodegradation of this chemical by various microbial strains. To date, no complete biodegradation pathway has been established for PFF pesticide, calling for a study of this nature.