Diazinon Properties, Mode of Action, and Toxicological Effects on Non-target Organisms

Diazinon (DZN) (O, O-diethyl-O-[2-isopropyl-6-methyl-4-pyrimidinyl] phosphorothioate) is one of the most widely applied organophosphorus pesticides in the livestock industry. It is an anticholinesterase organophosphate insecticide that inhibits the action of acetylcholinesterase, resulting in an abundance of acetylcholine, which affects neuromuscular transmission and causes insect paralysis and death. However, DZN residues in the environment can affect non-target organisms through the air, water, soil, and food chain, which raised worries about its detrimental consequences. Oxidative stress (OS) caused by reactive oxygen species may be the key mechanism that might be related to DZN toxicity. This article provides a comprehensive investigation of DZN's toxicity pattern, with an emphasis on its negative effects on the neurological, hepatic, cardiac, and nephrotic systems, as well as its effects on reproductive processes. It also addresses how DZN affects hormonal levels, causing endocrine disorders. Consequently, identifying these pathways might offer helpful insight on the mechanisms of DZN activity on various tissues. This review aimed to raise awareness about the harmful effects of DZN exposure.