L.M. PURANE, P.D. JADHAV1 ASHISH A. MISAL, SUSHILKUMAR M. SARVAGOD AND A.R. CHOPADE
Abstract
The widespread use of agrochemicals has raised concerns regarding their effects on non-target biological systems. The present study investigated the influence of paraquat dichloride, mancozeb (Indofil), and Fytolan on acetylcholine-induced contractions of isolated chicken ileum. Chicken ileum segments were mounted in an organ bath containing Tyrode solution, and dose-response curves were generated using acetylcholine. Contractile responses were measured in the absence and presence of agrochemicals. Acetylcholine produced concentration-dependent contractions with a maximum response of 87.33 ± 0.67 mm. Paraquat-treated tissues exhibited responses comparable to control tissues, whereas Indofil and Fytolan significantly reduced contractile responses. Fytolan showed the greatest inhibitory effect with a maximum response of 68.33 ± 0.88 mm. Log dose-response analysis indicated a reduction in maximal response rather than a parallel rightward shift, suggesting non-competitive inhibition or direct tissue toxicity. The findings demonstrate that agrochemicals can significantly alter intestinal smooth muscle contractility and indicate that copper-based fungicides may exert greater neuromuscular toxicity than paraquat and mancozeb.