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Abstract
Neonicotinoid insecticides have become the fastest growing class of insecticides over
the past few decades. The insecticidal activity of neonicotinoids is attributed to
their agonist action on nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). Because of the
special selective action on nAChRs in central nervous system of insects, and versatility
in application methods, neonicotinoids are used to protect crops and pets from insect
attacks globally. Although neonicotinoids are considered low toxicity to mammals and
humans in comparison with traditional insecticides, more and more studies show exposure
to neonicotinoids pose potential risk to mammals and even humans. In recent years,
neonicotinoids and their metabolites have been successfully detected in various human
biological samples. Meanwhile, many studies have focused on the health effects of
neonicotinoids on humans. Our aims here are to review studies on human neonicotinoid
exposure levels, health effect, evaluation of potential toxicity and to suggest possible
directions for future research.