What Is The Mechanism Of Action Of Aluminium Phosphide?

Aluminium phosphide is a highly toxic fumigant that is commonly used to control pests in stored grains and other agricultural products. When aluminium phosphide comes into contact with moisture, it generates phosphine gas, which is the active ingredient responsible for its toxic effects.

Phosphine gas is a mitochondrial poison that inhibits the cytochrome oxidase system, which is an important enzyme complex involved in cellular respiration. By inhibiting this system, phosphine gas disrupts the production of ATP, which is the main source of energy for cells. This leads to a rapid depletion of energy reserves in vital organs such as the heart, liver, and brain, resulting in organ damage and failure.

In addition to its effects on cellular respiration, phosphine gas also causes oxidative stress by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) and depleting antioxidant defenses. This further contributes to cellular damage and dysfunction.

Overall, the mechanism of action of aluminium phosphide involves the generation of phosphine gas, which acts as a mitochondrial poison to disrupt cellular respiration and cause oxidative stress, leading to organ damage and failure.